The History and Future of Geographical Indications in Europe and the United States

Abstract

Geographical indication is one of the most interesting problems in international trade law – how can we keep imitators from competing unfairly against distinctive local products? This paper traces the history of geographical indication protection for food products through French, American, and European history, attempting to show that current disagreements on the substance of such protections stem from the details of regulation rather than some fundamental distinction in legal regime. Ultimately, I recommend a negotiated solution to the current standoff between the world’s two most important trading power, which I believe to be possible without serious deviation from either European or American precedent.