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News
Chinese protection for Scotch whisky
China has agreed to protect the name "Scotch Whisky" as a Geographical Indication (GI).
The registration of Scotch as a GI means China has formally recognised that the name can only be applied to whisky produced in Scotland.
The agreement is the result of three years of discussion between the Chinese government and the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA).
The announcement was made on Monday during a ministerial meeting in Beijing between UK business secretary, Vince Cable MP, and Zhi Shuping, minister of China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ).
The accord grants Scotch whisky and the consumer greater protection from fakes and false labelling and guarantees the integrity of Scotch as a uniquely Scottish product.
Gavin Hewitt, SWA chief executive, said: “The Chinese government’s strong commitment to protecting consumers of Scotch whisky from imitations is welcome.
“Scotch whisky’s recognition as a geographical indication is a major step forward, helping the industry to stop fake products in what is an exciting and growing market.
“The Association’s effort to register Scotch whisky in China has received excellent support from the British and Scottish Governments, and the British Embassy in Beijing. Today’s announcement will help us to develop further this increasingly important market for Scotch whisky distillers.”
Rupert Millar, 10.11.2010