In what the World Trade Organization is signalling as a breakthrough, negotiators have come up with a draft text for an international register of geographical indications for wines and spirits, or product names derived from places or special characteristics.
The register was agreed to as part of the 2001 Doha Round of talks, but has proven contentious as countries lacking significant GIs have pursued the talks with caution. Negotiators advanced discussions in an informal session held yesterday, according to the WTO.
Negotiators are expected to meet again in the week of 24 January.
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