LOCAL USE IN COLOMBIA OF GEOGRAPHIC INDICATORS.

UNCLAS BOGOTA 006899 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ECON KIPR CO SUBJECT: LOCAL USE IN COLOMBIA OF GEOGRAPHIC INDICATORS. REF: SECSTATE 131291 ¶1. This is post's response to reftel request for information concerning the local use of geographic indicators (GIs) in Colombia. ¶2. According to the Superintendency of Commerce and Industry (SIC),Colombian trademark regulations generally protect the brand name of a product and not the "generic" description of the branded good. In a hypothetical example, "Acme Prosciutto Ham", the "Acme" brand could be registered with the SIC, while "Prosciutto" ham would be considered a generic description and its use would not registered or regulated. ¶3. In addition to Prosciutto ham, several Colombian- produced cheeses are treated similarly (Parmesan, Mozzarella, Feta, etc). Post is not aware of any Colombian- produced wines or Sherries that contain GI-sensitive labeling. Wood