The first meeting of the Working Group on the Promotion of Geographical Indications (GI) was held at the QazTrade platform, established jointly with the Kazakhstan Association of Sugar, Food and Processing Industry.
The Working Group brings together representatives of government bodies and the expert community engaged in protecting and promoting national brands. The initiative aims to develop the export of non-resource goods through the introduction and popularization of the geographical indications system.
“Geographical indications are not just a legal tool. They are a way to emphasize the uniqueness of a regional product, give it reputational value, and enhance its export potential,” noted QazTrade Managing Director Erkezhan Amirkhanova.
The initiative did not emerge from scratch. Previously, QazTrade actively participated in the international project CANDY–V aimed at developing geographical indications in Central Asia. Within this project, work began on amending national legislation and identifying priority Kazakhstani products for registration. One such product was the aport apple, recognized as a symbol of Almaty.
The Working Group will focus on identifying export goods with potential for promotion through GIs, organizing information sessions, round tables and consultations for producers, and developing proposals to improve legislation.
Experts note that Kazakhstan has significant potential in the field of geographical indications, both for regional and national products.
At the same time, a number of issues require additional consideration. According to current legislation, a geographical indication is a designation identifying a product originating from a specific geographical area and possessing special characteristics linked to its origin. However, in practice, an important element is often overlooked during registration — the product’s reputation, as well as issues of internal and external control.
“Internal control will help maintain quality and prevent reputational risks, while external control will help protect the market from counterfeiting. This is the key to consumer trust and the competitiveness of our brands,” emphasized Chair of the Association of Sugar, Food and Processing Industry Aizhan Nauryzgaliyeva.
The creation of the Working Group has become a step toward the systemic development of the institute of geographical indications in Kazakhstan. This work will not only strengthen the image of domestic products but also increase their attractiveness in foreign markets.