Some agricultural and food products are distinguished from one another by certain characteristics, qualities or reputations resulting essentially from their geographical origin. This differentiation can be attributed to the unique local features of the product, its history or its distinctive character linked to natural or human factors such as soil, climate, local know-how and traditions (all covered by the term "terroir").

FAO is implementing a programme to support the development of procedures  focusing on origin-linked specific quality that will contribute to rural  development.

These products of origin-linked quality can increase food security, inasmuch as they contribute to rural development and the preservation of food diversity, while also offering consumers a wider choice. Indeed, thanks to the link between such products and their areas of origin, they can help to preserve local resources, maintain traditions, strengthen the organization of local stakeholders and prevent delocalization and the rural exodus.

• Last news

  The tool on identification of origin-linked quality products and their potentials for sustainable development is now on line!
  See the web tool and the methodology on inventories

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  Study tour for Croatian delegation in South of Italy: learning for developing a GI for their mandarin of Neretva. See the documents (English)

• Events

Regional seminar FAO- OAPI: Quality linked to Geographical Origin and Geographical Indications in Africa, Conakry, Guinea, 8-10 December 2011 ; See the final report and case studies (French).

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Next InterGI training in Switzerland from the 16th to the 27th of April 2012.