The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has joined an international organisation devoted to protecting genuine products from copycats.
SWA, which traces its roots as the representative body for Scotland’s national drink to 1912, says the move will help to promote the geographical indication (GI) status of Scotch.
A GI is a product of a specific geographical origin that has qualities and a reputation associated with that region.
SWA is now a member of the Geneva-based Organisation for International Geographical Indications Network (oriGIn), which works around the world to improve the protection for GIs and also promote them as a tool for economic growth.
OriGIn chief executive Massimo Vittori said: “We are very pleased to have a group such as the SWA, with its outstanding experience in protecting and promoting GI Scotch whisky around the world, as a member of our worldwide network.
“More and more GI groups from different countries and sectors are joining forces to ensure that GIs are recognised and effectively protected internationally.”
SWA chief executive David Frost said: “GIs such as Scotch whisky have become very important in world trade.
“Protecting GIs is not just about intellectual property, it is also about protecting cultural heritage and employment.”