Quality linked to geographical origin: product, people and place

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

    Study tour: Croatian Kulen producers exploring the benefits of Geographical Indications, In Parma region, Italy, 19-22 September 2011; See the synthesis, the pictures and all documents

    Latin American project on Geographical indications in Argentina, Chile, Peru, Costa Rica, Brazil, Ecuador; Regional workshop in Lima, Peru, the 9-11 November 2011; See the Discussion forum.

    Workshop on Geographical Indicators and their Role in Rural Development, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 10 – 11 October 2011; See the report.

  • Events

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

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