Protected Geographical Status (PGS) refers to a legal designation and quality assurance scheme aimed at protecting and promoting unique agricultural and food products originating from specific geographical regions. It is a form of intellectual property right that guarantees and safeguards the distinctiveness, reputation, and authenticity of certain regional food and drink products. PGS is typically granted to agricultural goods, traditional crafts, and local specialties that possess specific qualities or characteristics closely linked to their place of origin.
The status is awarded by national or regional authorities, and once obtained, it ensures that only producers from the designated area who adhere to specified traditional production methods are entitled to use the protected name or logo on their products. This legal protection prevents unauthorized use and misuse, safeguarding consumers from deceptive practices and preserving the reputation and value of the designated products.
PGS typically comes in three categories: Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), which signifies that the entire production, processing, and preparation takes place within a specific geographical area; Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), which requires at least one stage of production, processing, or preparation to occur within the designated area, and Traditional Specialty Guaranteed (TSG), which highlights traditional composition or production method.
The PGS scheme benefits both producers and consumers. Producers benefit from increased recognition, market value, and market exclusivity, while consumers can make informed choices, confident in the authenticity and quality of the products they purchase. Overall, PGS encourages rural development, promotes cultural heritage, and supports sustainable production practices.
