Cognac and Scotch Whisky obtain GI Protection in China
By King & Wood's Trademark Practice
On December 16, 2009, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) of the People's Republic of China announced that it approved the registration of Cognac as a geographic indication, which is the first foreign geographic indication protected in China. On October 9, 2010, Scotch whisky was also recognized as a geographic indication, as a result of three-year discussion between the Scotch Whisky Association and the Chinese government. This will provide better protection for Cognac and Scotch whisky in China, which will also guarantee purchase of genuine Cognac and Scotch Whisky to the local consumers.
Sources:
http://kjs.aqsiq.gov.cn/dlbzcpbhwz/ggcx/201010/t20101021_158458.htm
http://www.sipo.gov.cn/sipo_English/news/iprspecial/201003/t20100308_503905.html &
http://www.chinaipmagazine.com/en/news-show.asp?id=1337
