Patent Office Presents New Rules for Geographical Indications

On its official internet portal, the institution has launched a public discussion of a draft amendment to the Trademarks and Geographical Indications Act, which introduces fundamental changes to the registration and protection system of industrial brands.

The document is a direct result of the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 2023/2411, adopted by the European Parliament on October 18, 2023. The key transformation consists of transitioning to a fully European procedure for registering geographical indications, which will eliminate the previous national mechanisms.

The new regulatory framework provides for a two-phase approach to registration – an initial national stage and a subsequent European procedure. From December 1, 2025, geographical indications for artisan and industrial products will receive protection solely at the European-wide level.

The Patent Office has been designated as the leading competent authority for implementing the national phase. The institution will work together with a Permanent Interdepartmental Advisory Commission, composed of representatives from various state structures and public law organizations.

The draft law introduces detailed provisions for market control, monitoring, and administrative-penal responsibility for violations of registered geographical indications. The goal is to create a precise mechanism for protecting industrial property.

Among the main objectives of the document are overcoming existing regulatory gaps, improving administrative procedures, and harmonizing with European legislation. The expected effects include increasing legal certainty and stimulating the development of Bulgarian industrial sectors.

Experts from the Patent Office emphasize that the adoption of the draft law will create a more favorable environment for the development of industrial property, while simultaneously protecting the interests of local producers and meeting European regulatory requirements.