The Shanghai Intellectual Property Administration hosts a work conference on constructing a GI standards system, in tandem with a ceremony to establish the Shanghai Standardization Association's GI Professional Committee on Oct 24. [Photo/WeChat ID: Shanghai_IPA]

Shanghai is pushing forward with the construction of a geographical indication (GI) standards system in an effort to promote the protection and utilization of GIs, and contribute to the building of an intellectual property powerhouse.

On Oct 24, the Shanghai Intellectual Property Administration held a key meeting to discuss this initiative, and the Geographical Indication Professional Committee under the Shanghai Standardization Association was established at the occasion.

During the event, Yu Chen, deputy director general of the Shanghai Intellectual Property Administration, highlighted the significance of GIs as crucial intellectual property assets that promote regional economies and enhance market competitiveness. He emphasized the role of standards in ensuring the authenticity and quality of GI products, as well as their importance in improving production, management, and protection levels.

Yu called for deeper efforts in constructing the GI standards system, conducting academic research, and expanding the talent pool in GI protection. He urged the creation of high-quality standards to boost the quality, reputation, and market share of GI products, and to support the high-quality development of characteristic industries and rural vitalization.

The meeting also featured discussions from the intellectual property administrations of Chongming and Fengxian districts on GI product protection and standards construction. Over 120 participants, including representatives from enterprises using special GI, attended the event.