Implementation of the 10th EDF Regional Provate Sector Programme

PROMOTING TRADE AND EXPORT DEVELOPMENT

to Europe however they are currently in the process of developing a chocolate factory in order to develop their own product for export to the regional market. The association is currently requesting best practices or a model for Europe from which they can follow and study. The workshop in Trinidad and Tobago, organised in collaboration with the Caribbean Fine Cocoa Forum, Technical Center for Agricultural and Rural Cooperation (CTA), and the Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative, sought to build the capacity of cooperatives and farmers associations using WIPO- developed training materials on the use of IP tools for the identification, promotion and protections of GIs and OLPs. The sessions also provided training on the codes of practice and the setting-up of regulatory bodies, this is a part of a broader cooperation WIPO has been undertaking in the Caribbean region, with a view to building the capacity within the sectors with GI/OLP potential. The target audience for this workshop were representatives from farmers, agricultural associations and cooperatives, and other stakeholders involved in the value chains concerned. As an outcome to the workshop, Caribbean products identified by commissioned studies as having strong GI potential continue the process of development in this area. In July 2015, Caribbean Export facilitated the delivery of a workshop on the Development of Management Strategies for Origin Linked Products (OLPs) as Support to National Competitiveness in the Dominican Republic sought to increase the understanding and utilisation of intellectual property (IP) rights as a trade development tool by governments and private sector, as well as build the capacity of CARIFORUM producers to identify and develop OLPs. The key outcome of the workshop would be to have producers register relevant geographical indications, with the ultimate impact of enabling their products to be more competitive on the global market and increase exports. Caribbean Export hosted two Sub-Regional Intellectual Property Workshops for CARIFORUM firms. The first workshop on Geographical Indications (GIs), Origin Linked Products (OLPs) and Branding was hosted in Barbados from March 18-20, 2015. Delivered in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), CARICOM Office of Trade Negotiations (OTN), and Inter- American Development Bank (IDB), the three-day session saw participation from 33 persons. The participants also benefitted froma field trip to the RumRefinery in Barbados with the aim of exploring product specifications and systems necessary for identifying potentials; reviewing the supply chain; assessing the stakeholders; and examining challenges and opportunities. Overall, respondents found that the workshop met their expectations, with the majority citing that the initiative provided them with the opportunity to develop and draft specifications for GIs, understand the value of IP for business strategy development and recognise the significance of the supply value chain, among others.

• Grenada Nutmeg – The Grenada Cooperative Nutmeg Association (GCNA) is currently active, however the capacity needs to be strengthened before moving forward in the registering of the GI or collective mark. The GCNA also recommended that the other sectors with potential in Grenada, such as cocoa, required further development. • Jamaica Jerk – An application for the GI in Jamaica was made to the Jamaica IP Office in April 2014, however the IP office has not yet made its decision. The Jamaica the process around 2008, indicating that it is a long, arduous process. A legal and regulatory framework has been established in the country, including a GI Act and Regulations, A Jamaica Jerk Code of Practice and Control Manual, Articles of Incorporation, and a GI Mark Administration. The members of the Association indicated that a study tour to Switzerland was helpful in the process. The Jamaican Jerk Association would be Jerk Association is an active organisation, which started • Trinidad Cocoa – The intention of the Trinidad Cocoa Association is to capture the value within the region and they are seemingly prepared to work with the sectors in other countries. Currently the majority of Trinidadian cocoa is being exported a good case study for other associations in the region.

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