The EU–Mercosur agreement, now provisionally in force, marks a significant step forward in promoting Brazilian Geographical Indications (GIs).

Brazil currently holds:

  • 150 national GIs
  • 119 Indications of Source (IP)
  • 31 Appellations of Origin (DO)
  • 161 total GIs, including foreign recognitions

This reflects a growing adoption of GIs as strategic IP assets.

International protection and legal impact

The agreement enhances legal protection for Brazilian GIs in the European market, resulting in:

  • Reduced misuse of geographical names
  • Increased legal certainty for exports
  • Stronger international recognition
  • Enhanced product authenticity and reputation

Key sectors such as coffee, wine, cheese, honey, and cachaça are expected to benefit.

GIs as a strategic IP tool

Geographical Indications play a critical role in:

  • Linking quality to origin
  • Preserving local know-how
  • Creating competitive differentiation
  • Strengthening regional economies

When combined with trademarks, GIs allow producers to:

  • Build individual brand positioning
  • Differentiate within the same territory
  • Expand long-term commercial strategies
  • Market access challenges

Despite regulatory progress, effective market entry depends on:

  • Consistent product quality
  • Production scalability
  • Producer organization
  • Compliance with EU technical standards

The agreement creates opportunities, but execution is key.

Regulatory and economic ripple effects

International agreements also drive domestic impact:

  • Encourage new GI registrations
  • Influence public policies
  • Strengthen innovation ecosystems
  • Support future agreements (e.g., EFTA)

Additionally, GIs contribute to:

  • Regional development
  • Rural tourism
  • Local business expansion

The EU–Mercosur agreement reinforces intellectual property as a key driver of international competitiveness.

Geographical Indications are no longer just origin labels; they are strategic global assets.

At Tavares IP, we support companies and associations in protecting and leveraging IP assets globally. Contact us to develop your GI strategy.