ADDIS ABABA – The Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA) has announced that Ethiopia is finalizing preparations to implement a national Geographical Indication (GI) certification system, particularly aimed at protecting its coffee products.
EIPA, in collaboration with the Ethiopian National Coffee Association (ENCA) and Hawassa University, has signed an agreement to launch a pilot GI certification project for Sidama Coffee.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, EIPA Director General Woldu Yimesel emphasized yesterday that the GI certification system would help consumers identify and trust high-quality products while enabling producers to market their goods more effectively. The system is also expected to prevent quality deterioration, unauthorized blending, and other challenges.
Once the book of specifications is ratified and the GI certification system is in place, Ethiopian coffee will gain enhanced protection in the global market. This system will grant exclusive ownership rights to coffee growers and farmers, strengthening their position in the international trade arena.
According to Woldu, the GI certification system provides special worldwide protection for geographical origin-linked products and secures intellectual property rights (IPRs). Currently, Ethiopia does not hold an international patent for its coffee in the global market; instead, it relies solely on trademarks. The introduction of GI certification is expected to boost foreign market confidence and protect Ethiopia’s coffee from blending and misrepresentation by global companies.
To address these challenges, Ethiopia has been actively working to implement the GI system and establish clear product specifications.
ENCA President Zerihun Kamiso highlighted that the GI certification system will significantly benefit producers, exporters, and stakeholders by strengthening value chains. He added that insights gained from the pilot project will be used to expand the system to other coffee varieties, unlocking the sector’s full potential.
BY TSEGAYE TILAHUN
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 16 MARCH 2025
