Georgia bans export of Armenian matsun through its territoryFebruary 8, 2022 - 11:01 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The Armenian dairy product matsun with such labeling cannot be exported to Russia via Georgia since the latter has registered “matsoni” as its geographical indication. A geographical indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. In order to function as a GI, a sign must identify a product as originating in a given place. The Armenian Ministry of Economy said on Monday, February 7 that as in the case of cognac and champagne in France, the name "matsoni" is registered in Georgia as a geographical indication, Armenpress reports. Armenia has informed dairy producers that the name "matsun" sounds similar to "matsoni" registered in Georgia, which may cause problems when exporting products with this name through the territory of Georgia. “Back in 2011, the intellectual property authorities of Armenia filed an objection against the registration of the name “matsoni” to the relevant bodies of the European Union and Georgia, arguing that this name can be confused with matsun produced in Armenia. However, the objection was not taken into account,” said the press secretary of the Minister of Economy, Gayane Antonyan. Antonyan said, however, that the government is taking steps to clarify with the Georgian side the use of geographical indications. Top stories Yerevan has dismissed Turkey’s demand to shut down the Armenian nuclear power plant as “inappropriate”. Armenia will loan 2.9 billion drams to Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh), according to a draft government decision. The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan has “strongly condemned” Armenia’s decision. Kerobyan has said that for the first time in the history of Armenia, the volume of foreign direct investments amounted to about $1 billion. Partner news | Kazakhstan welcomes Yerevan, Baku’s agreement to meet in Almaty Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has welcomed the agreement of Baku and Yerevan to hold negotiations in Almaty. Armenia offers to temporarily host, preserve Gaza manuscripts The Armenian Foreign Minister has said Yerevan is ready to help preserve manuscripts from the conflict zone in Gaza. Aliyev says no need for mediators in Armenia-Azerbaijan process Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev believes that Baku and Yerevan do not mediators in the process of normalizing relations. Aram I supports Karekin II’s “patriotic position” Catholicos of the Great House of Cilicia Aram I has expressed support for the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin. |