China to Protect Scotch Whisky

19 December 2012

China has announced that it will recognize and protect “Scotch Whisky” as a geographical indication, according to a statement from the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).

Scotch Whisky’s registration as a GI in China is the culmination of three years of discussions between the SWA and the Chinese Government.

The announcement was made at a Ministerial meeting in Beijing between the Vince Cable, the UK Business Secretary, and Zhi Shuping, Minister of China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ). SWA chief executive Gavin Hewitt attended the meeting as part of the UK business delegation.

The decision ensures the highest levels of protection by China’s enforcement authorities. Local consumers will be better protected from imitations, while the integrity of Scotch Whisky as a product made in Scotland is supported, the SWA said.

Chinese officials visited Scotland in 2009 to learn more about how Scotch Whisky is made and protected. This was followed by technical meetings in Beijing between the SWA, Chinese Government and British Embassy officials in March 2010.

“The Chinese Government’s strong commitment to protecting consumers of Scotch Whisky from imitations is welcome. Scotch Whisky’s recognition as a geographical indication is a major step forward, helping the industry to stop fake products in what is an exciting and growing market,” said Hewitt. “The Association’s effort to register Scotch Whisky in China has received excellent support from the British and Scottish Governments, and the British Embassy in Beijing. [This] announcement will help us to develop further this increasingly important market for Scotch Whisky distillers.”

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