Ouzo and feta included in the food protection deal between the EU and China

The EU and China signed a bilateral agreement on Monday to protect 100 European Geographical Indications (GIs) in China and 100 Chinese GIs in the European Union against usurpation and imitation.

The EU list of GIs to be protected in China includes iconic GI products such as Feta, Ouzo, Cava, Champagne, Irish whiskey, Münchener Bier, Polska Wódka, Porto, Prosciutto di Parma and Queso Manchego.

Among the Chinese GI products, the list includes for example Pixian Dou Ban (Pixian Bean Paste), Anji Bai Cha (Anji White Tea), Panjin Da Mi (Panjin rice) and Anqiu Da Jiang (Anqiu Ginger).

The agreement reflects the commitment of the EU and China to deliver on their commitment taken at previous EU-China Summits and to adhere to international rules as a basis for trade relations, the European Commission said in a press release.

“I am proud to see this agreement getting one step closer to its entry into force, reflecting our commitment to work closely with our global trading partners such as China. European Geographical Indications products are renowned for their quality and diversity, it is important to protect them at an EU and global level to ensure their authenticity and preserve their reputation. This agreement will contribute to do this, while also strengthening our trading relationship, benefitting our agri-food sector and consumers on both sides,” said Janusz Wojciechowski, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development.

Following the signature of the agreement and the European Parliament consent, it will officially be adopted by the Council. The agreement is expected to enter into force at the beginning of 2021.