Geographical indication

A geographical indication protects names or signs that link goods to a specific geographic origin and to qualities, reputation or characteristics attributable to that origin. It helps prevent misleading use and preserves collective value for regional producers. Switzerland protects geographical indications through several mechanisms, including rules for indications of source, registered designations for agricultural products and international arrangements. Protection differs from trademarks because it usually serves a collective origin function rather than identifying one undertaking, although collective and guarantee marks may interact with it.