China issues GI protection, application plan for 2021-2025 period

China has recently issued a plan on geographical indications for the 14th Five-Year Plan to enhance and improve GI protection. Amongst others, “the plan proposed 19 major tasks in five aspects such as GIs protection and management, the construction of GI brands, GI characteristic industries and international cooperation”. The plan, together with legislative initiatives, is expected to improve China’s GI protection. In addition, the plan foresees further developing the GI market in China and is likely to increase customers’ appreciation towards GI products.