Uzbekistan to Join WIPO Lisbon System for GI Protection

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan is set to join the international system for the protection of geographical indications and appellations of origin after the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis approved a draft law on April 21.

The document предусматривает присоединение страны к Женевскому акту Лиссабонского соглашения о наименованиях мест происхождения и географических указаниях, adopted on May 20, 2015, integrating Uzbekistan into the World Intellectual Property Organization-administered Lisbon System.

This system provides for international registration and legal protection of appellations of origin and geographical indications across all member states through a unified procedure and fee structure.

Under the approved framework, legal protection for such designations in Uzbekistan will be granted following payment of the установленного сбора and completion of the required examination process.

Authorities note that accession will significantly reduce costs for domestic businesses seeking international protection of brands and geographical indications—by up to three times on average—while simplifying application procedures and shortening review periods. This is expected to enhance the country’s investment attractiveness and increase revenues from patent and registration fees.

The move is also seen as supporting Uzbekistan’s accession process to the World Trade Organization.

Uzbekistan already has a substantial base for developing geographical indications. Examples include traditional products and crafts such as Chust knives, Samarkand bread, Margilan adras and Khorezm melons, which have gained recognition abroad.

According to official data, 26 geographical indications and four appellations of origin are currently registered in the national registry, with additional potential items identified for future registration.

Joining the international agreement will create a legal foundation for more effective protection of national products in foreign markets and help prevent their unauthorized use.