The objectives of this guide are:
1. to explain what origin-linked quality and the GI concept are;
2. to raise awareness regarding the potential of origin-linked products for rural development and conditions for sustainability;
3. to facilitate implementation of GI processes at local level by providing tools and a concrete methodology.

Based on multidisciplinary research and empirical evidence from all over the world, this guide is intended for practitioners, rural development specialists from the public or private sectors, representatives of value chains, policy makers, rural community leaders and trainers. It is intended more particularly for those involved in the development of agricultural and food systems who have an interest in promoting and preserving local food products and resources (traditions, know-how and natural resources) within a perspective of rural development. T