Distinctive Signs for Collective Use in Latin America: Development Promotion by Valuing Origin and Quality

Abstract

Origin-based production, including manufacturing, handicraft, and especially food production in Latin American countries, is essential to their economies. Quality differentiation systems such as geographical indications, designations of origin, collective and certification marks, and quality labels, among others, can play a dual role in the economic and social development of the region and in adding value to their products with the consequent impact on trade. However, those systems are quite particular to each country due to multiple realities. Therefore, it is challenging to promote integration, harmonisation, and /or cooperation within the region. Therefore, this paper aims to offer a comprehensive legal comparative understanding of how those systems work in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay to back up further research, law, and policy-making on this field. The outcome indicates potential ways forward, targeting especially (a) the potential of a regional system of mutual recognition of the protection granted at the national level and (b) the improvement of the system at the domestic level, according to each country's reality and producer's needs.

Keywords: Latin America, Geographical Indications, Distinctive Signs for Collective Use, Quality Differentiation Schemes