Why geographical indication is vital

Adopting it as a mark of distinction and quality will protect Nepal’s local indigenous and niche products.

Beyond just fashion outrage, the recent controversy surrounding Prada’s sandal, which bore a striking resemblance to India’s traditional Kolhapuri sandals—officially recognised with a Geographical Indication (GI) in 2019—highlighted the urgent need to preserve cultural heritage through GI certification. Products originating from a particular place and having characteristics or a reputation associated with that place are labelled with a GI. Such indications are intricately linked to cultural identity . To be identified as a GI, a tag must clearly state that the product originates from a particular place. GI also guarantees customers that the product is genuine and pure by preventing counterfeiters from misusing the name. Without GI protection, international competitors may even exploit our identity and reputation.