On Tuesday, the Polish government announced ongoing legislative work aimed at updating the Industrial Property Law. This update addresses compliance with a European Union regulation that has established a unified system for the protection of geographical indications (GIs) for artisan and industrial products.
Geographical Indications in Poland
The Polish Patent Office will play a crucial role in this initiative. It will be responsible for accepting and evaluating applications for GI registration. The office will also handle requests for changes to product specifications and the annulment of GI registrations.
Key Responsibilities
- Accepting and assessing GI registration applications.
- Changing product specifications upon request.
- Handling objections related to GI registrations.
To support this process, the Advisory Council for the Registration of GIs for Artisan and Industrial Products will provide expert opinions and advice.
Enforcement and Monitoring
The Commercial Inspectorate will ensure that the products conform to their specifications. This agency will operate under the supervision of the President of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK).
Timeline for Implementation
The Polish government plans to adopt this legislative project in the first quarter of this year. This initiative aligns with EU standards and aims to bolster intellectual property rights concerning geographical indications in Poland.
Understanding Geographical Indications
Geographical indications are intellectual property rights that protect product names linked to their geographic origin. These indicators ensure that products possess specific qualities or reputation attributed to their unique origins.
