Drinks Ireland | Spirits, the representative body for spirits producers in Ireland, has welcomed news that the geographical indication (GI) for Irish cream liqueur is to be recognised in China in a move that Drinks Ireland | Spirits said could strengthen exports of this product to one of the largest consumer markets on the planet.
GIs protect the integrity of European products, and in the case of Irish cream liqueur, specify that it must be made on the island of Ireland and in accordance with certain production standards, outlined in the Irish cream "technical file". Therefore, no products incorrectly produced or labelled as Irish cream liqueur can be sold in China.
The news comes after the EU and China concluded negotiations on a bilateral agreement to protect 100 European GIs in China and 100 Chinese GIs in the EU against imitations and usurpation.
"A Growing Target For High-Quality Spirits"
Head of Drinks Ireland | Spirits Vincent McGovern commented, "We welcome news today that the GI for Irish cream liqueur is to be recognised and protected in China. China is one of the largest consumer markets and a growing target for high-quality spirits. We anticipate that the Chinese consumer will continue to respond positively to the provenance and heritage that is at the heart of the many successful brands created by the Irish cream liqueur sector."
© 2019 Hospitality Ireland – your source for the latest industry news. Article by Dave Simpson. Click subscribe to sign up for the Hospitality Ireland print edition.
