Japan and UK Secure Geographical Indication Protections, Boosting Trade Confidence
Source: The DairyNews
In a significant development, 37 geographical indications (GIs) have received formal protection on February 29, marking a crucial milestone in the trade relations between Japan and the UK. This follows a thorough scrutiny process undertaken by both countries, with a second set of protections slated for announcement after additional work concludes.
Japan's robust consumer market, supported by its population of 125 million and its position as the world's third-largest economy in 2022 with a GDP per capita of £27,400, underscores the commercial opportunities for premium British products in the Japanese market, as per the UK Department for Business & Trade.
This move safeguards iconic British products such as Staffordshire Cheese and Orkney Scottish Island cheddar, preventing the influx of counterfeit goods into the Japanese market. It instills confidence among UK businesses looking to export, ensuring that consumers receive authentic, high-quality products.
Trade Policy Minister Greg Hands emphasized the significance of the announcement, stating, "Consumers in Japan can now be assured that they are enjoying the authentic taste of great British food and drink. This announcement not only protects beloved British delicacies but also gives UK producers added confidence when selling into Japan."
Food and Farming Minister Mark Spencer highlighted the importance of Geographical Indication protections as a guarantee of quality and excellence. He said, "These additional protections will give assurance to British farmers and producers who export their unique products to Japan – and to Japanese consumers who will know they are buying the real thing."
For UK businesses, Geographical Indications are integral in building trust, enhancing brand recognition, and driving export growth, thereby supporting the sustainability of local industries. They reinforce the UK's position as a producer of distinctive and sought-after goods.
Nicholas Rodda, Managing Director at Rodda’s, expressed the significance of GI status for their Cornish clotted cream, stating, "The GI status not only strengthens the authenticity of our Cornish clotted cream on a global stage but also provides new opportunities for our business conversations internationally."
In a reciprocal move, the UK will also be safeguarding the Geographical Indications of several Japanese food and drink products, including Hokkaido wine and Hiba beef. This ensures that British consumers can confidently purchase authentic Japanese goods.
The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, in force since January 1, 2021, is poised to elevate the number of protected GIs from seven under the EU-Japan trade deal to over 70, signaling a positive trajectory in the bilateral trade relationship.
This move safeguards iconic British products such as Staffordshire Cheese and Orkney Scottish Island cheddar, preventing the influx of counterfeit goods into the Japanese market. It instills confidence among UK businesses looking to export, ensuring that consumers receive authentic, high-quality products.
Trade Policy Minister Greg Hands emphasized the significance of the announcement, stating, "Consumers in Japan can now be assured that they are enjoying the authentic taste of great British food and drink. This announcement not only protects beloved British delicacies but also gives UK producers added confidence when selling into Japan."
Food and Farming Minister Mark Spencer highlighted the importance of Geographical Indication protections as a guarantee of quality and excellence. He said, "These additional protections will give assurance to British farmers and producers who export their unique products to Japan – and to Japanese consumers who will know they are buying the real thing."
For UK businesses, Geographical Indications are integral in building trust, enhancing brand recognition, and driving export growth, thereby supporting the sustainability of local industries. They reinforce the UK's position as a producer of distinctive and sought-after goods.
Nicholas Rodda, Managing Director at Rodda’s, expressed the significance of GI status for their Cornish clotted cream, stating, "The GI status not only strengthens the authenticity of our Cornish clotted cream on a global stage but also provides new opportunities for our business conversations internationally."
In a reciprocal move, the UK will also be safeguarding the Geographical Indications of several Japanese food and drink products, including Hokkaido wine and Hiba beef. This ensures that British consumers can confidently purchase authentic Japanese goods.
The UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, in force since January 1, 2021, is poised to elevate the number of protected GIs from seven under the EU-Japan trade deal to over 70, signaling a positive trajectory in the bilateral trade relationship.
