The Brazilian Patent and Trademark Office (BPTO) and Sebrae held an online event to discuss proposed changes to the rules for registering Geographical Indications (GIs), currently governed by BPTO Ordinance No. 4, dated 2022. A public consultation on the matter is now open and will run until October 17.

Key proposals include merging the preliminary and substantive phases of the application process, a measure that is expected to simplify and accelerate registrations. New requirements for the Bylaws of applicant associations are also under discussion, ensuring stronger accountability from producers throughout all stages of the process, including after registration is granted.

Brazil currently has 142 Geographical Indications across 25 states, covering 1,836 municipalities. In 2025 alone, 16 new GIs have already been recognized in nine states, underscoring the growing importance of this tool in enhancing local production and improving competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

The public consultation is available on the BPTO website.