/ONA/
The Sultanate of Oman has registered Omani frankincense internationally as a geographical indication with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The issuance of the international registration certificate represents an achievement that reflects the well established status of this ancient product within Omani identity and in global trade associated with heritage and authentic products.
Nasra bint Sultan Al Habsi, Director General of Commerce at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, affirmed that this registration, which is the first of its kind in the Gulf region, comes as the culmination of institutional efforts aimed at protecting Omani frankincense and enhancing its marketing value in international markets. This is achieved by linking it to its authentic geographical origin and its distinctive qualities associated with its natural environment and cultural heritage, as well as benefiting from the Sultanate of Oman’s accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications, and the international protection of such designations.
She added that the importance of this international agreement lies in providing a unified global framework for the registration and protection of products linked to their geographical origin. This ensures that protection is not limited to national borders but extends to member states within an organized international system. The agreement also grants countries flexibility in implementing protection within their national or regional legal systems, making accession a strategic step for countries possessing products with unique natural, historical, or cultural characteristics, such as Omani frankincense.
For his part, Eng. Khalid bin Hamoud Al Hinai, Director of the National Intellectual Property Office at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, explained that the international registration of Omani frankincense constitutes formal international recognition, with its inclusion in the international register of the Lisbon System for Geographical Indications. Contracting parties to the system are notified accordingly, which enhances its legal standing internationally.
He added that this also reflects a significant economic shift in the management of national intangible assets. Geographical indications contribute to strengthening consumer confidence, enhancing the competitiveness of Omani products that incorporate Omani frankincense, and enabling Omani entrepreneurs and companies to benefit from the global reputation enjoyed by Omani frankincense, known for its quality and uniqueness, within a recognized international legal framework. It also supports sustainability efforts by encouraging adherence to sound production practices, preserving the natural resource and ensuring continued economic benefits for future generations.
She further reiterated that the importance of this international agreement lies in providing a unified global framework for registering and protecting products linked to their geographical origin, extending protection beyond national borders to member states within an organized international system. It also grants countries flexibility in implementing protection within their national or regional legal frameworks, making accession a strategic step for countries with products of distinct natural, historical, or cultural characteristics, such as Omani frankincense.
To read the full article:
https://omannews.gov.om/topics/ar/7/show/466359/ona