You’ve probably heard of the limitations on using the name “champagne” but did you know that a new international trade agreement between Australian and the European Union may limit the use of hundreds of additional product names?
Why Product Names Matter
After eight years of formal negotiations, the free trade agreement (FTA) between Australia and the European Union (EU) settled on 24 March 2026. The FTA covers a wide range of matters including tariff reductions, increased market access for agricultural and dairy products, digital trade provisions, and collaboration on critical minerals. Of particular importance is the introduction of the geographical indication (GI) registration system to Australian markets. A GI is a label used on products that originate in a specific geographical location and possess qualities or a reputation linked to that origin.
