Japan’s Geographical Indication (GI) Protection System, established under the Geographical Indication Protection Act, aims to safeguard products with specific regional origins and unique qualities. Implemented in 2015, this system provides legal protection for numerous traditional and distinctive products in agriculture, fisheries, and brewing sectors. Through geographical indications, producers can maintain the close connection between their products and their regions, ensuring that their distinctive qualities and reputations are protected from imitations. This system not only preserves traditional production methods and regional culture but also enhances product market competitiveness and promotes sustainable local economic development. In this context, this article will provide a detailed analysis of the application process, management regulations, key considerations, and practical cases of Japan’s GI Protection System, offering in-depth insights for both producers and consumers.
Definition and Importance of Geographical Indications
Geographical Indications (GIs) are a legal system that protects products with specific regional origins and unique qualities derived from these origins. GIs not only reflect the close connection between products and specific regional environments, production techniques, and cultural traditions but also protect the legitimate interests of producers in that region. For a country like Japan, renowned for its agricultural products, seafood, and traditional crafts, the GI system is of paramount importance. It serves not only as a legal tool to protect regional brands but also provides strong support for promoting local economies, maintaining product quality, and enhancing product market competitiveness.
Overview of Japan’s Geographical Indication Protection System
Japan’s GI Protection System is based on the Geographical Indication Protection Act, which came into effect in 2015, marking a significant step in product protection. The law aims to provide legal safeguards for high-quality products from specific regions and prevent the circulation of unauthorized counterfeit products using GI labels in the market. This not only helps protect consumer interests but also safeguards the legal rights of local producers, promoting healthy regional economic development.
The core of GIs lies in protecting products closely associated with specific geographical areas. These products typically possess unique qualities, reputations, or other characteristics due to local factors such as climate, soil, water sources, and production methods. Therefore, GIs are not merely commercial labels but recognition and protection of regional culture and traditional production techniques. Through the GI protection system, the Japanese government aims to encourage the development of local specialty products and promote the prosperity of local industrial economies.
The system is administered by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, covering product categories including agricultural products, food, seafood, and alcoholic beverages. Notably, the ownership of GIs is collective, typically belonging to producer associations or groups representing the interests of producers in the relevant region. This design ensures that the use of GIs is for the benefit of the entire production community rather than individual commercial interests. This collective ownership mechanism helps prevent misuse of GIs by individual interest groups and ensures that the label is truly used to promote and protect traditional production methods and the unique connection of products to specific regions.
Simultaneously, the GI system ensures that only qualified products receive legal protection through strict approval and monitoring mechanisms. Producers must strictly adhere to legal standards in production, and the production location, methods, and other key factors related to the region must comply with GI regulatory requirements. This strict control mechanism not only maintains the credibility of GIs but also helps protect consumers’ legal rights, enabling them to purchase genuine high-quality products with regional characteristics.
The implementation of the GI system has also positively impacted Japan’s rural and local economies. By protecting the intellectual property rights of these unique products, producers can obtain higher market value, further promoting local economic development and enhancing the international competitiveness of local specialty products. In the global market, GI-protected products can usually attract consumers with their unique qualities and regional culture, increasing the added value of products and helping to enhance the brand influence of Japan’s export products.
Application Process for Japanese Geographical Indications
The application process for Japanese GIs is a highly rigorous procedure requiring applicants to strictly follow the relevant provisions of the Geographical Indication Protection Act. This process includes multiple stages from preparing application materials to final approval for GI protection. Due to the special nature of the GI system, the application process not only requires applicants to provide specific information about the product but also demands that the product possesses unique characteristics and reputation closely related to its region. Therefore, applicants must fully understand each step of the process before applying and ensure that all materials are accurate.
3.1 Preparation Work Before Application
Before submitting a GI application, applicants must first confirm their eligibility. According to the Geographical Indication Protection Act, only producer groups or producer associations related to the product are eligible to apply for GIs; individual producers cannot apply independently. This regulation aims to safeguard the collective interests of GIs and ensure that the products protected by GIs reflect the common characteristics of the entire production community rather than the interests of a single producer.
During the application preparation process, producer groups need to understand in detail the product’s production process, historical background, production area, and its uniqueness. Application materials should include the product’s production process, source of raw materials, and the close connection between the product and its regional environment. Specifically, applicants need to provide evidence proving that the product’s quality, reputation, or characteristics are closely related to natural factors (such as climate, soil, altitude, etc.) or human factors (such as traditional craftsmanship, historical culture, etc.) of its place of origin. For example, the unique flavor of a certain tea may be closely related to the soil and climate conditions of its growing region, while the unique quality of a traditional food may come from production techniques passed down through generations. This information is crucial for proving the product’s uniqueness and forms the basis for applying for a GI.
Additionally, applicants need to ensure that the product they are applying for fully complies with the relevant provisions of the Geographical Indication Protection Act. In particular, the product must be produced within a specific region, and its uniqueness must be inseparable from the natural or human conditions of that area. If a product is merely produced in a specific region but has no characteristics related to the region, or if its uniqueness is unrelated to the region, the application is likely to be rejected. Therefore, applicants should conduct in-depth market research and historical investigation during the preparation stage to ensure they can fully demonstrate the close connection between the product and the region.
3.2 Submitting the Application
After completing the preparation work, applicants can formally submit their GI application to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. This step involves not only filling out application forms but also submitting a series of key documents detailing the product’s characteristics, production methods, and its relationship with the region. The submitted documents typically include the following parts:
First is the product name. Applicants need to clearly state the product’s name and its connection to the region. For example, the product name should directly reflect its regional nature, such as “Kobe Beef” or “Saga Beef,” which not only identify the type of product but also clearly indicate its place of production.
Next is a detailed description of the product, which is crucial. Applicants need to explain in detail the product’s production method, source of raw materials, and its unique qualities. The purpose of this section is to give reviewers a full understanding of the product’s characteristics and the regional factors involved in its production process. For example, in applications for tea products, applicants should explain how specific cultivation methods, harvesting techniques, and processing techniques affect the flavor and quality of the product.
Defining the geographical area is equally important. Applicants need to accurately describe the product’s production area and provide evidence of how the geographical conditions of the area influence the product’s characteristics. This may include the region’s climate, soil characteristics, water conditions, etc., and how these natural conditions give the product its unique qualities. For instance, the application materials for Shizuoka tea would involve how the soil and climate conditions of Shizuoka Prefecture affect the flavor and quality of the tea.
Finally, applicants need to submit materials related to the product’s reputation and history, proving the product’s market reputation and historical background. Reputation can be demonstrated through market feedback, consumer reviews, awards, etc., while the product’s historical background should include the production history of the product in the region. Generally, the product’s reputation and history can further prove the product’s uniqueness and its close connection with the region.
3.3 Review and Approval
After the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries receives the application, it enters the review stage. The review process is very strict, with the Ministry carefully examining all submitted materials and evaluating the product’s characteristics, quality, production techniques, and its relationship with the region. This process involves not only assessing the product’s quality but also ensuring that every detail in the application materials accurately reflects the product’s regional characteristics.
Reviewers will verify the product’s reputation, history, and close connection with the region to ensure that the application truly meets the requirements for GI protection. Furthermore, the Ministry will collaborate with other relevant government departments and industry organizations to ensure that the applied GI does not conflict with existing registered indications. If the applied product is similar to or overlaps with existing GI products, the application may be rejected.
During the review process, the Ministry will also further evaluate the production standards and quality management of the product to ensure that producers can consistently maintain the product’s high quality and specific regional characteristics. For example, for alcoholic products, reviewers may examine how the product’s fermentation process, aging time, and geographical conditions of the cellar affect the flavor of the alcohol.
If the application materials pass the review, the Ministry will approve the application and issue a GI registration certificate. After the registration certificate is issued, applicants can legally use the GI label on their products. GI registration not only adds legal protection to the product but also enhances the product’s market recognition and brand value.
3.4 Maintenance of Geographical Indications
After obtaining GI registration, producers must continuously comply with the relevant requirements of the GI. Once a GI label is approved, holders must ensure that their products always meet the original standards, especially in terms of production techniques, raw material sources, and regional connections. If producers fail to produce according to the specified standards, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has the right to revoke GI protection. Therefore, GI holders not only need to maintain the high quality of their products but must also strictly adhere to the production specifications set at the time of GI registration.
Producers also need to regularly submit production reports to the Ministry, proving that their product production complies with the standards set at the time of initial application. This is not only a self-monitoring mechanism but also an important measure to maintain the credibility of GIs.
3.5 Promotion and Market Application of Geographical Indications
After successfully registering a GI, producer groups can promote their products through various means. The GI itself is a branded label that can provide quality assurance to consumers. Producers can highlight the GI certification label through product packaging and advertising to enhance consumer confidence in the product.
Moreover, GIs can help products enter broader domestic and international markets. Especially in international markets, GI-protected products can usually obtain higher recognition and added value. GIs are not only symbols of product quality but also embodiments of regional culture and tradition. Therefore, producers can leverage this point to further enhance the market competitiveness of their products by disseminating brand stories and regional culture.
Protection and Use of Geographical Indications
Japan’s geographical indication (GI) protection system aims not only to provide legal certification for products from specific regions but also to maintain the quality and reputation of these products through legal means in the long term. The effectiveness of this system relies on strict usage regulations and protection periods to ensure that geographical indications do not lose their market value and legal validity due to misuse or lack of control. The following sections will analyze in detail the protection and usage regulations of geographical indications.
4.1 Protection Period of Geographical Indications
Once a product obtains geographical indication protection, its protective effect is long-term. Unlike patents or trademarks, geographical indications do not have a specific expiration date, unless significant changes occur. The core of GI protection is to ensure that the unique quality of the product and its connection to the region are not damaged or altered. Therefore, as long as the product continues to meet the production conditions specified in the initial application, the protective effect of the geographical indication can continue indefinitely.
However, certain special circumstances may lead to the invalidation of GI protection. For example, if there are significant changes in the production conditions, especially if natural or cultural factors related to geographical elements can no longer maintain the original standards, the geographical indication may be revoked. Specifically, if a product is no longer produced in the originally specified region, or if production methods that do not meet the requirements are used, its GI qualification will be questioned. Another situation that may lead to the invalidation of a geographical indication is the dissolution of the applicant group. In Japan, the ownership of geographical indications belongs to producer groups or associations; therefore, if these groups dissolve, the legal basis for GI protection will be lost.
For other producers, geographical indications are exclusive rights. Without permission, other producers may not use registered GI marks on similar products. If a producer uses such a mark without authorization, it constitutes an infringement. This infringement may lead to legal disputes, and the producer group can pursue legal action. Japan’s Geographical Indication Protection Act has clear provisions for such infringements, and producers who illegally use GI marks will face legal consequences such as fines and cessation of sales of infringing products. These regulations not only maintain the market competitiveness of GI products but also protect consumer rights, allowing them to confidently purchase high-quality products with authentic geographical indications.
4.2 Usage Regulations for Geographical Indications
Producer groups holding geographical indications must strictly adhere to the production standards and processes specified in their application. This means that geographical indications are not just a marketing tool; producer groups also bear the responsibility of maintaining product quality and regional characteristics. The uniqueness of GI products is reflected not only in their connection to the region but also in the requirement that producers must follow the standards set at the time of GI registration, ensuring that products consistently maintain specific qualities.
Producer groups must strictly follow legal regulations when using geographical indications. Firstly, all production activities must comply with the technical and process standards specified in the GI application. If producer groups deviate from these standards in actual production, it will be considered a misuse of the geographical indication and may lead to its revocation. To ensure that producer groups strictly adhere to production standards, the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has established a regular monitoring mechanism to periodically check whether the production of GI products complies with original standards. If it is found that a producer has failed to produce according to standards, the Ministry has the authority to take appropriate measures, including revoking the GI qualification.
Moreover, there are specific requirements for the use of GI marks. According to Japan’s Geographical Indication Protection Act, GI marks must be clearly displayed in a prominent position on product packaging or labels so that consumers can easily identify the product as a GI-protected item. This mark is not only a quality assurance for consumers but also a symbol of the legitimacy and uniqueness of GI products. In practice, producers should ensure that the use of GI marks complies with regulations, including the size, position, and color of the mark. Any improper use of GI marks may be considered illegal, and producers will face legal responsibilities.
While using GI marks, producers should also pay attention to their reasonableness in market promotion. Exaggerating the efficacy of GI products or using GI marks on products that do not meet the conditions will mislead consumers and damage the market reputation of GI products. To maintain the credibility of geographical indications, producers should follow the principle of truthfulness when using marks and should not exaggerate their connection to the region or the uniqueness of the product. This not only maintains consumer trust in GI products but also effectively prevents unfair competition in the market.
In practice, the use and protection of geographical indications are usually accompanied by strict regulatory measures. In addition to ensuring consistency in production standards, producer groups need to regularly submit relevant production reports to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, explaining whether the production process of the product complies with standards. These reports include details on raw material sources, production process details, product market performance, etc. Through the regular reporting of this data, the Ministry can timely grasp the production dynamics of GI products, ensuring their legality and consistency in quality.
The use of geographical indications not only relates to the economic interests of producer groups but also affects the overall economic development and cultural heritage of the region. Therefore, producer groups should jointly maintain this system to ensure its long-term effectiveness in the market. The usage regulations for geographical indications strictly require producers not to arbitrarily change product production conditions and processes. Any improper behavior will damage the credibility of geographical indications and weaken their role in promoting regional economies.
How to Query Registered Geographical Indications
In Japan, since the implementation of the geographical indication system in 2015, the number of registered GI products has been increasing, covering various fields such as agriculture, fisheries, brewing, and traditional crafts. These geographical indications not only ensure the unique quality of products but also provide important support for local economic development and cultural heritage. Therefore, the demand for querying geographical indications from the public, producers, and regulatory authorities is growing.
The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries has specifically established an online query system for users to conveniently search for registered GI products. This query system has powerful functions and can provide users with rich information on GI products. Users can access the geographical indication query page through the official website of the Ministry and search using keywords such as product name, registration number, or production area. This system not only facilitates consumers in confirming the authenticity of purchased products but also provides producers with a public platform to showcase their protected products.
The user interface of the query system is concise and clear. Users only need to input relevant information to obtain detailed product data, including the product name, GI registration number, production area, names of main producers, and a brief description of the product. This information provides consumers with sufficient background to help them make informed choices when purchasing products. For producers, the query system is not only a tool to showcase products but also helps prevent unfair competition or illegal use of GI marks by confirming the status of other GI products in the market.
Furthermore, the GI query system assists regulatory authorities in implementing effective market supervision. By querying registered GI products, regulatory agencies can monitor product situations in the market at any time, ensuring that the production and sale of all GI products comply with relevant legal regulations. Any unauthorized use of GI marks can be quickly discovered through this system, ensuring market order fairness.
With the development of globalization and the increase in international market demand, geographical indications are playing an increasingly important role in international trade. Japan’s GI query system not only meets the needs of domestic consumers and producers but also provides a convenient query channel for international buyers, ensuring they can obtain accurate information when purchasing Japanese GI products. This internationalized query method helps enhance the recognition and competitiveness of Japanese GI products in the global market.
When using the query system, users should pay attention to inputting accurate search keywords to ensure the precision of query results. For example, when querying “Kobe beef,” the complete name of the product should be clearly entered rather than vague terms. In addition, users can filter by product category, such as tea, alcohol, agricultural products, etc., to find the required information more quickly.
The establishment of the GI query system not only enables consumers and producers to better understand the specific situation of GI products but also provides a platform for the entire society to monitor and manage GI products. As the GI system continues to improve and develop, the functionality of this system may be further enhanced, possibly adding more data analysis functions in the future to help users more comprehensively grasp the market dynamics of GI products.
Important Considerations in Geographical Indication Applications
Applying for a geographical indication is a rigorous and complex process. Applicants must strictly follow the requirements of Japan’s Geographical Indication Protection Act to ensure that the uniqueness, quality, and reputation of products can be effectively protected. The following are several key points that should be particularly noted in the application process.
6.1 Geographical Connection
Geographical connection is one of the core criteria in GI applications. Applicants must be able to fully demonstrate that the quality or reputation of the product is closely related to a specific region. In other words, the uniqueness of the product must originate from natural or cultural factors of the region, such as climate, soil, water quality, or traditional production techniques. Only when there is a clear connection between the product and its region does it qualify for a geographical indication application.
When submitting an application, applicants should describe in detail how the natural conditions of the region affect the production and quality of the product. For example, if an agricultural product has a unique flavor due to the specific soil and climate conditions of the area, the applicant should provide relevant scientific data or historical materials to prove this point. Insufficient geographical connection is one of the most common reasons for rejection in GI applications, so applicants must put considerable effort into this aspect to ensure that their application materials can fully demonstrate the close connection between the product and the region.
6.2 Collective Application
According to the provisions of the Geographical Indication Protection Act, geographical indications can only be applied for by producer groups or associations, and individual producers do not qualify to apply. This regulation is to ensure that the rights and interests of geographical indications belong to the entire group of producers, rather than to a single producer. The advantage of collective application is that it can effectively coordinate production standards within the entire production area, ensuring that all producers can follow the same norms, thereby maintaining product consistency and high quality.
When applying for a geographical indication, producer groups or associations must be legally established and have sufficient representativeness to effectively manage producers in the region. These groups should jointly formulate and implement unified production standards to ensure that all members can produce products according to regulations. If the applicant does not qualify for collective application, the application will be rejected. Therefore, applicants should ensure the legality and representativeness of their producer group before applying.
6.3 Consistency in Production Standards
The core of geographical indications lies in the uniqueness and territoriality of the product. Therefore, all products protected by geographical indications must maintain consistent production standards. When applying for a geographical indication, producer groups must submit detailed production specifications, clearly defining the production process, raw material sources, quality control, and other aspects. Once these standards are established, all producers must strictly adhere to them, ensuring that the quality and reputation of the product are not affected by the actions of individual producers.
Consistency in production standards is not only a requirement for applying for geographical indications but also key to maintaining the market competitiveness of geographical indication products. Producer groups should ensure that all members follow the specified standards through regular internal inspections and supervision. Any inconsistency in production standards will lead to a decline in product quality, thereby damaging the reputation of the geographical indication. If a producer fails to produce products according to the standards, the geographical indication protection may be revoked, and the interests of the entire producer group will be harmed.
Producer groups should also establish strict quality control systems, regularly test and evaluate products to ensure that product quality meets the standards. During market sales, producer groups should regularly inspect the use of product packaging and labeling to ensure that all products use geographical indication labels as required. These measures not only help maintain the market image of geographical indication products but also effectively prevent non-compliant production and sales behaviors.
6.4 Protection in Compliance with International Norms
With the opening of international markets and the development of globalization, Japan’s geographical indication protection system has gradually aligned with international norms, ensuring that Japanese geographical indication products receive the same legal protection in international markets. Japan has ensured recognition and protection of its geographical indication products in multiple countries and regions by signing international agreements, such as the “Agreement on Geographical Indication Protection and International Market Access.”
Applicants should be aware that the protection of geographical indications is not limited to the domestic Japanese market. During the application process, they should consider the needs and standards of international markets. For example, some countries may have different requirements for geographical indications than Japan’s standards. Therefore, applicants should adjust their product packaging, labeling, and production standards according to international norms to ensure their products can smoothly enter international markets.
6.5 Promotion Combining Market and Culture
Applying for a geographical indication is not just about obtaining legal protection, but also about enhancing the product’s market competitiveness through this label. Therefore, applicants should fully utilize the market value of geographical indications, combining the product’s territoriality and cultural background with marketing to increase the product’s added value. Through brand promotion, producers can convey the product’s regional characteristics and unique qualities to consumers, enhancing their desire to purchase.
Applicants should develop detailed marketing plans, using the cultural background and historical heritage of geographical indication products as core selling points to attract consumer attention. For example, many Japanese traditional crafts protected by geographical indications are famous not only for their exquisite craftsmanship but also for the cultural stories and historical backgrounds they carry. By integrating these cultural elements into market promotion, producers can effectively enhance the market appeal of their products.
Case Studies of Geographical Indication Protection
7.1 Case Study One: Kobe Beef
Background: Kobe beef is one of Japan’s most representative geographical indication products. The production of Kobe beef strictly relies on the natural resources and breeding techniques within specific areas of Hyogo Prefecture. The unique climate conditions and breeding methods of Hyogo Prefecture, especially the special feed and high-quality water sources used locally, give Kobe beef its unparalleled flavor and texture. Its delicate marbling and melt-in-the-mouth quality are the result of the interaction between local traditional breeding methods and the environment.
Geographical Indication Application and Protection: The application for the Kobe beef geographical indication was initiated by the Kobe Beef Producers Association. During the application, the producer group submitted detailed information on the breeding process, regional conditions, and historical background, proving that the unique production method of Kobe beef is closely related to the region. Through this demonstration, Kobe beef successfully applied for geographical indication protection, ensuring that only Wagyu raised in specific areas of Hyogo Prefecture can be called Kobe beef. The granting of the geographical indication not only enhanced the market recognition of Kobe beef but also effectively protected it from counterfeit products.
Impact: Through obtaining the geographical indication, the international market competitiveness of Kobe beef has significantly improved. The geographical indication label allows consumers to easily identify and trust the quality of Kobe beef while preventing unauthorized imitations from entering the market. The successful protection of this geographical indication has ensured the long-term sustainable development of the local economy in Hyogo Prefecture and increased local agricultural and livestock income.
7.2 Case Study Two: Shizuoka Tea
Background: Shizuoka tea is world-renowned due to its cultivation in specific areas of Shizuoka Prefecture, benefiting from unique geographical conditions. The soil and climate conditions of Shizuoka Prefecture, as well as the centuries-old local tea cultivation and processing techniques, give Shizuoka tea its unique flavor and aroma. The fresh taste, rich aroma, and emerald green color of Shizuoka tea are all crystallizations of the local natural and cultural environment.
Geographical Indication Application and Protection: In the process of applying for the geographical indication, the Shizuoka tea producer group submitted the product’s history, production conditions, and its close connection with the region. The application especially emphasized the important influence of Shizuoka Prefecture’s climate and soil conditions on tea quality, and how local unique cultivation and processing techniques give the tea its distinctive flavor. Under geographical indication protection, only tea grown and processed within Shizuoka Prefecture can be called “Shizuoka tea,” effectively protecting the market position of this brand.
Impact: The granting of geographical indication protection not only enhanced the brand value and international market influence of Shizuoka tea but also prompted producers to ensure the consistency of tea quality through unified production standards. Consumer trust in Shizuoka tea increased, resulting in a significant increase in sales volume and exports. At the same time, geographical indication protection also encouraged local tea farmers to adopt stricter quality control standards, further improving the quality of the tea.
7.3 Case Study Three: Noto Beef
Background: Noto beef is a high-quality beef produced in the Noto Peninsula area of Ishikawa Prefecture. The climate, feed, and breeding methods of the Noto Peninsula give Noto beef its unique taste and flavor. Noto beef has a fine texture and rich taste, particularly suitable for grilling and teppanyaki dishes.
Geographical Indication Application and Protection: When applying for the geographical indication of Noto beef, the producer group provided detailed information proving that the high-quality meat of Noto beef benefits from the unique geographical and climatic conditions of the Noto Peninsula. Additionally, traditional breeding techniques and feed formulations were key factors in Noto beef obtaining the geographical indication. After successfully applying for the geographical indication, Noto beef gained wider market recognition and effectively protected its brand from counterfeit products through legal means.
Impact: Through the protection of the geographical indication, the market influence of Noto beef has significantly increased, attracting more and more consumers. The application of the geographical indication has not only brought huge economic benefits to the local cattle industry but also encouraged more young people to join the industry, promoting the sustainable development of local animal husbandry.
7.4 Case Study Four: Goto Tenobe Somen
Background: Goto Tenobe Somen is a unique handmade noodle from the Goto Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. The production of Goto Tenobe Somen has a long history, with traditional handcrafting techniques passed down through generations, giving the noodles their unique texture. The clean water sources of the Goto Islands, suitable climate, and unique production methods give Goto Tenobe Somen a distinctive flavor and quality compared to other noodles.
Geographical Indication Application and Protection: When applying for the geographical indication, Goto Tenobe Somen producers provided detailed explanations about the climate conditions of the Goto Islands, the history of handmade noodle-making techniques, and their close association with the region. The application stated that only noodles made using traditional handcrafting techniques within specific areas of the Goto Islands could be called Goto Tenobe Somen. After successfully obtaining geographical indication protection, the market value of Goto Tenobe Somen significantly increased, with demand continuously rising in both domestic and international markets.
Impact: The granting of the geographical indication has made Goto Tenobe Somen an important economic pillar of Nagasaki Prefecture. Producers maintain traditional craftsmanship and strictly adhere to production standards, ensuring the high quality of Goto Tenobe Somen, attracting a large number of tourists to taste and purchase. The protection of the geographical indication has not only contributed to the economic development of the Goto Islands but also promoted the inheritance of local handicraft culture.
7.5 Case Study Five: Mie Prefecture Ise Lobster
Background: Mie Prefecture Ise lobster is one of Japan’s famous high-end seafood, renowned for its unique quality, delicious taste, and long-standing fishing tradition. It has become a successful case under Japan’s geographical indication protection. Ise lobsters are mainly distributed along the Pacific coast around Mie Prefecture, especially in Ise Bay and its surrounding waters. The salinity, temperature, and rich marine biological resources in this area provide an ideal growth environment for Ise lobsters. Ise lobsters have delicate meat and a chewy texture, gaining popularity in domestic and international markets for their unique flavor.
Geographical Indication Application and Protection: During the geographical indication application process, applicants provided detailed scientific data and historical background, proving the decisive role of Mie Prefecture’s geographical conditions in the quality of Ise lobsters. The fishing and farming of Ise lobsters also have strict seasonal regulations, ensuring that they are only caught during specific periods each year to avoid overfishing. This not only maintains the stability of the lobster population but also ensures that the caught Ise lobsters maintain consistent high quality.
Impact: After obtaining geographical indication protection, Mie Prefecture Ise lobster further consolidated its market position as a high-end seafood. Through the application of geographical indications, the producer group standardized production standards, ensuring that Ise lobsters sold in the market conform to regional characteristics and production specifications. This protective measure effectively curbed the appearance of counterfeit products in the market and provided strong support for the development of the fishing industry in Mie Prefecture. Furthermore, the successful protection of the geographical indication has helped Mie Prefecture’s Ise lobster enter international markets, becoming an important seafood export product from Japan. Through geographical indication certification, international consumers have a higher level of trust in the quality of Ise lobsters, further promoting the brand influence of Japanese seafood in the international market.
Conclusion
Japan’s geographical indication protection system effectively maintains the territoriality and uniqueness of products through legal means, enhancing their market competitiveness. If applicants wish to successfully apply for geographical indication protection, they must fully understand the legal requirements, ensure the completeness of application materials, and highlight the close connection between the product and the region. In addition, producer groups that have obtained geographical indications must strictly adhere to production standards to ensure consistency in product quality.
