High-Level Workshop on Geographical Indication for Unrefined Sugars in Mauritius

The African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and the Intellectual Property Rights and Innovation in Africa (AfrIPI) project, in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade of Mauritius, hosted a two-day workshop on the establishment of a geographical indication (GI) for Mauritius Unrefined Sugars.

The event, scheduled on 21-22 August 2024, aimed to explore the opportunities associated with the registration of a geographical indication on Mauritius unrefined sugars, which are renowned for their unique and distinctive flavours on international markets. Under the so-called sui-generis GI system, which is already available in Mauritius, the right-holders i.e producers and manufacturers will benefit from a strong scope of protection for their product.

The workshop brought together key stakeholders from the sugar sector, government officials, and IP experts to discuss the strategic choices to make over the protection and promotion of for Mauritius Unrefined Sugars. Participants engaged in discussions surrounding the various options for GI registration at the international level subsequent to its national recognition. National recognition is the major prerequisite to the enforcement of the GI at the international and European levels for preserving the authenticity and capturing broader benefits.

The workshop helped to foster consensus among stakeholders on the most effective path forward for the registration process. This initiative, which aligns with the government's broader commitment to promoting sustainable development in the agricultural sector, holds the promise of creating new economic opportunities for farmers and communities by safeguarding and promoting local products.

In addition to the discussions, the workshop featured a tasting session of Mauritian unrefined sugars, allowing participants to experience firsthand the distinctive flavours that set them apart. A visit to the renowned L'Aventure du Sucre Museum offered a deeper understanding of the island's rich sugar heritage.