An Important Message About Geographical Indications In Russia

On July 27, 2018, the Russian State Duma passed first reading of a draft bill entitled "On Amendments to Part Four of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation (on geographical indications)" (the Bill).

As a part of the general legislative process, a bill has to undergo three readings at the Russian State Duma before it is in force. Comments may be received and amendments to the bill can be introduced up to the second reading.

The Bill is a welcome development. It aims to fulfill Russia's WTO obligations under Articles 22 and 23 of the TRIPS Agreement which requires protection of geographical indications. Previously existing protection for Appellations of Origin in Russia will continue to exist. But geographical indications will be easier to obtain, since for GI's only one part of the production process which gives the product its special qualities or reputation has to be attributed to a certain geographical location.