FAO, IPA Drive Stakeholder Engagement to Establish Geographical Indications Framework in Papua New Guinea

Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea – To enhance the visibility and marketability of local products of Papua New Guinea on the international stage, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, in collaboration with the Intellectual Property Office of the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) of Papua New Guinea, recently organised a two-day Consultation Conference on Geographical Indications (GIs) in Mount Hagen, Western Highlands Province.

The event, focused on the crucial role of GI, gathered 74 stakeholders from diverse sectors including key government representatives from EHP DAL, EHP Commerce, and WHP DAL and leaders from the private sector and small cooperatives. 

Geographical Indications, as globally recognized trademarks, underscore products that boast unique qualities or reputations stemming from their specific geographical origins, enhancing their market value through the promotion of distinct identity and quality.

The benefits of implementing GIs are extensive; from protecting local heritage and biodiversity, supporting rural development, to fostering economic growth by allowing producers to earn premium prices for their authentically local products. Furthermore, GIs promote sustainable practices and potentially increase tourism, thereby boosting local economies.

The consultation conference primarily aimed to lay the groundwork for a GI legislation framework within PNG. The discussions also pinpoint potential GI products in the Highlands Region spanning food, agriculture, and handicraft sectors. 

The deliberations delved into production methods and the unique characteristics of products linked to their geographical origins, identifying promising GIs such as Waghi Besta Kaukau and Kosem Coffee, which echo the rich agricultural and cultural heritage of the region. 

Mr. Stéphane Passeri, the FAO Regional Lead for the GI Initiative in Asia and the Pacific, spearheaded the technical discussion, highlighting the GI registration process as a pivotal tool for enhancing market visibility and access, thus empowering local producers and communities to capitalize on their origin-linked products.

As this joint endeavour gears up for the introduction of the GI Law bill to Parliament of the Papua New Guinea, the emphasis on sustained dialogue and partnership among all stakeholders remains paramount. This collaborative approach is essential for the successful implementation and management of the GI system in PNG.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Amelia Naaru, the Registrar of the Intellectual Property Office, stressed the importance of continued dedication to agricultural pursuits, noting that the forthcoming GI Law will significantly amplify the international appeal of their products.

The FAO, under the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, is dedicated to ongoing communication and collaboration with all parties involved to foster an environment conducive for the effective management and promotion of Geographical Indications in Papua New Guinea.

About the EU-STREIT PNG Programme 

The EU-STREIT PNG, being implemented as a United Nations Joint Programme (FAO as leading agency and ILO, ITU, UNCDF and UNDP as implementing partners), is the European Union's largest grant-funded initiative in the country. It focuses on boosting sustainable and inclusive economic development in rural areas. This is achieved by enhancing economic returns and opportunities within cocoa, vanilla, and fisheries value chains. Additionally, the Programme strengthens and improves the efficiency of value chain enablers, including access to ICT and digital financial services. It also supports the development of sustainable, climate-resilient transport infrastructures and renewable energy solutions. The Programme benefits two provinces: East Sepik and West Sepik.