Geographical indication protection has become increasingly important for Vietnamese businesses looking to expand abroad. The number of registrations has increased rapidly in recent years, with dozens of agricultural products successfully protected in foreign markets. This has led to significant price increases, with clean lychees seeing a 15-25% increase in selling price.
To meet the criteria for geographical indication protection in Japan, Vietnamese growers must adhere to strict technical requirements from seedlings to harvesting and preservation. The Bac Giang Department of Industry and Trade estimates that lychee exports to Japan will increase from 201 tons in 2021 to 500 tons in 2024.
The National Office of Intellectual Property has played a crucial role in this process, seeing a rapid increase in geographical indication registrations in Vietnam. The development of geographical indications has been focused on specific products, making it easier for businesses to protect their intellectual property rights abroad. However, registering trademarks and geographical indications can be a complex and time-consuming process.
Vietnam has signed international treaties on intellectual property and cooperation projects with partners to support businesses in protecting their intellectual property rights in foreign markets. State management agencies have also been actively supporting businesses through seminars, training, and awareness-raising activities to build export strategies and develop product brands abroad.
The protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights are not only important for businesses but also for localities and industry associations in Vietnam. Vietnam’s representative agencies abroad play a crucial role in providing timely information on market risks, policy changes, and intellectual property laws in foreign countries. As more Vietnamese businesses look to expand abroad, the importance of protecting intellectual property rights will continue to grow.