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Biological resources have been used through the ages to develop a wide range of products, from new food and
medicines to dyes and cosmetics. Today, the value of this biodiversity has been recognised by agricultural, natural and biotech industries that have begun to generate an array of products with high levels of profitability.

In order to obtain the customer’s seal of approval and maximise profits, these products must be distinct from other products available on the market. Some of the tools used to differentiate such products are called distinctive signs. This enables a consumer to tell a product apart by its distinctive usefulness, quality, origin, production method or specific raw materials used.

The most relevant signs for biotrade include general frameworks, certification and collective marks, appellations of origin and geographical indications. These have great potential to promote sustainable development and biotrade as they ensure economic benefits for rural communities in particular and establish a general framework to protect their traditional knowledge and practices.
 

Related Contents:

Technical Workshop :  “The Use of Geographical Indications and Appellations of Origin to Promote Sustainable Development and Biotrade”

ICTSD, UNCTAD BioTrade, SPDA and CAN
 
21- 22 November 2005 at CAN Headquarters in Lima, Peru.

Downloadable presentations and background documents available

Download Technical Update issue 10 on Geographical Indications (February 2007)