Value and protection of geographical indications by the Japanese Wine Law

Recently, Japanese wine law has changed dramatically. In October 2015, the definition of “Japan wine” and the labelling rules were introduced, and the registration guidelines for the geographical indication (GI) were formulated. Up to now, the Commissioner of the National Tax Agency has designated two wine GIs: “Yamanashi” and “Hokkaido”. However, it is not easy for Japanese consumers to understand the value and the role of GI. The National Tax Agency, prefectures, municipal authorities and winery associations organise from time to time promotional events of GI wines to spread the notion of GI. Even though the majority of “Japan wine”, including GI wine, is consumed in the internal market, it is necessary to protect the Japanese GIs in foreign countries. Due to the EU-Japan EPA that ensures the mutual protection of GIs, it is quite probable that the GI will play an important role in the export of Japanese wine, liquor and agricultural products.