In its answer to the parliamentary written question about Asiago PDO cheese and lack of protection on the US and Canadian markets, the European Commission has underlined the importance to secure an enhanced protection for EU geographical indications (GIs) in the context of bilateral negotiations under way with the U.S. and Canada.
The written question, presented by MEP Mara Bizzotto (EFD) on 20th August 2013, emphasized the difficulties of Asiago Cheese Consortium in securing international recognition and protection of its brand in the United States and Canada that classify Asiago PDO as a semi-generic name.
In particular, the Commission has clarified that is not entitled to be a party in legal actions the Asiago Consortium is taking with a view to register its trademark in these countries. However, it will continue to pursue an ambitious outcome for the EU GIs within the framework of the negotiations.
