Geographical Indication is an important Intellectual Property Right, recognized by all members of the World Trade Organization. Such a property right receives different treatment from each member of the WTO. Although the TRIPS Agreement regulates it, such regulation is done only on a general basis, which gives countries enough autonomy to decide on major elements regarding Geographical Indications within their borders.
In Brazil, Geographical Indications are regulated by the National Law of Property Rights, number 9.279/96. The importance of Geographical Indication to Brazilian producers and how the process is done in Brazil is explored in this study. More specifically the research question is: How do producers perceive the difficulties and the time consumed by the process of Geographical Indication recognition?
A survey is used as a tool to better understand producers' perspectives of the process as it is done in Brazil. Some of the main points explored in the survey deal with the awareness of producers about Geographical Indication, time consumed by the process, difficulties found in the process, and how interactions between applicants and governmental institutions may affect the development of the process.
According to respondents of the survey, for example, better integration and organization among members of the associations, who wish to have their product protected by Geographical Indication, is essential for the process. Stronger partnerships and interactions of the associations with governmental institutions, such as SEBRAE and MAPA, have been perceived by the respondents as very helpful as well.
The data collected and the literature help to answer the research question of this study. By using data collected from the surveys, as a primary source of information, this study is concluded with suggestions of how to improve the process of Geographical Indication recognition in Brazil.