On March 18, 2025, Georgia officially joined the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications after parliamentary ratification. This move expands legal protection for Georgia’s unique products in 23 countries and two intergovernmental organizations—the European Union and the African Intellectual Property Organization.

The Geneva Act, adopted in 2015 and enforced since February 26, 2020, modernized the Lisbon Agreement by including geographical indications alongside appellations of origin. This change provides stronger international protection for distinctive products.

Georgia’s accession to the Geneva Act follows significant reforms led by its National Intellectual Property Office (Sakpatenti). In 2023, Georgia introduced a new Law on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications, which revamped the registration process, involved the National Commission for Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications, and strengthened the role of business associations. Supported by the EU Twinning Project, the reform also introduced a control system in line with international standards.

Georgia currently protects 39 appellations of origin and 31 geographical indications. Joining the Geneva Act provides a streamlined international framework for safeguarding these products, boosting consumer trust, economic growth, and Georgia’s presence in global markets.

If you have any inquiries regarding intellectual property matters in Georgia, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].

Natali NADOEVI, S&O IP Georgia, IP Associate