EU to Ask WTO for Protection for European Names in Commerce. According to Radio Free Europe, at a conference scheduled for September 10 in Cancun, Mexico, the European Union intends to present to the World Trade Organization a list of 41 foodstuffs whose names the EU wants to protect from international abuse. Specifically, the EU claims that products like Parma ham and Champagne, which are named after the regions of Europe from which they originated, are being exploited by other countries who use the names for products manufactured outside those originating territories. In addition to the regional names, the EU seeks to protect what it calls "traditional European names." Some countries like South Africa have already entered into compromises with the EU, agreeing to phase out use of names like ouzo, port and sherry over 12 years. More significant opposition is expected from countries like the United States, Australia and New Zealand.
Posted by franchiselawblog at September 4, 2003 09:35 AM