22.10.2010 - Vinexpo news selection
The Trade Ministers of the European Union have approved the opening of talks with China with a view to setting up an overall system to protect the geographical indications of wines and spirits.
Some appellations such as Champagne or Cognac already benefit from protection given by special purpose-built agreements.
An initial trial agreement between Europe and China was signed in 2007, providing for reciprocal recognition and protection of ten Chinese products and ten European ones.
The upcoming talks will aim to widen the scope of the existing agreement to all the indications protected by each party. (V&S News / 17 September 2010)