The National Assembly recently reviewed a critical bill championed by the Minister of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development (ai), Pr. Fuh Calistus Gentry. The Minister represented the government. He defended a proposal. The proposal authorizes Cameroon’s accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications. This international treaty was adopted on May 20, 2015, in Lisbon. It aims to safeguard and promote local production. It does this by protecting geographical indications (GIs).
Currently, Cameroon boasts two products with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status: Pendja white pepper and Oku white honey. The proposed accession to the Geneva Act seeks to extend similar protections to a wider range of iconic Cameroonian products. These include Cameroon red cocoa, Ndop fabric, Mbouda avocado, Bafia pineapple, and Ndolè.
A geographical indication serves as a marker. It links a product to its region of origin. It highlights its unique qualities. It also emphasizes traditional production methods. By acceding to the Geneva Act, Cameroon stands to unlock significant economic benefits. These benefits include enhanced export opportunities. Better branding for local products will be achieved. There will also be increased competitiveness on the global market.
The Ministry of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development (MINMIDT) supports this vision. It has set up a mechanism focused on producers. This ensures products are of high quality. They are internationally competitive. This initiative aligns with global standards, aiming to uplift local industries and create sustainable economic opportunities.
The committee examining the bill was chaired by the Honourable Banmi Emmanuel Dingha, President of the Foreign Affairs Committee. Once adopted, this legislative move will redefine how Cameroon showcases its cultural heritage through its unique and diverse products.
Read Also: Cameroon Red Cocoa Inches Closer to Labeling
For small business owners and entrepreneurs, this is an opportunity to align with Cameroon’s growing commitment to quality and marketability. At OpenHub Consulting, we are ready to help you leverage new opportunities in branding and marketing local products.
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