Geographical Indications: I Say 'Kalamata', the EU says 'Black Olive' (A)

Posted: 22 Jul 2009

See all articles by Bob Pozen

Bob Pozen

Harvard University - Business School (HBS)

Anirudha Krishni Satchcroft

Harvard Business School

Date Written: June 30, 2009

Abstract

In April 2005, Alexandra was the owner of an Australian farm that produced olives, including Kalamata table olives. Alexandra had invested in the expansion of her farm in anticipation of the evolution of her market from domestic trade in Australia to international export. There was, however, a disruptive dispute before a WTO tribunal between Australia and the EU regarding the protection of Geographical Indications, which identify a product's origins and are treated as trademarks in some respects by international trade rules. Though Alexandra prepared her Kalamata olives in the traditional Kalamata technique, her use of the regionally specific name was threatened by the intellectual property rights provided by GIs. The case focuses on what should be the legal outcome of the WTO dispute, as well as possible business strategies by Alexandra in the event of an adverse outcome to Australia.

Suggested Citation

Pozen, Bob and Satchcroft, Anirudha Krishni, Geographical Indications: I Say 'Kalamata', the EU says 'Black Olive' (A) (June 30, 2009). HBS Case No. 309-114, Harvard Business School General Management Unit, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1436458

Bob Pozen (Contact Author)

Harvard University - Business School (HBS) ( email )

Soldiers Field Road
Morgan 270C
Boston, MA 02163
United States

Anirudha Krishni Satchcroft

Harvard Business School ( email )

Soldiers Field Road
Morgan 270C
Boston, MA 02163
United States

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