This year marks the entry into force of several new EU regulations that transform and strengthen the protection of geographical indications (GIs). Regulation (EU) 2023/2411, on the protection of geographical indications for craft and industrial products, expands GI protection to include these categories. Meanwhile, Regulation (EU) 2024/1143, covering geographical indications for wine, spirit drinks, and agricultural products - as well as traditional specialities guaranteed and optional quality terms for agricultural products - reinforces and streamlines the existing GI protection system for these sectors. 

This flyer highlights the most significant changes introduced by these two regulations and examines the diverse approaches taken in national legislation regarding GI protection. National practices vary widely, from establishing criminal sanctions for GIs in dedicated legislation to not recognising GIs as a subject of criminal offences at all.