SWA secures GI protection for Scotch Whisky in Indonesia

GI recognition means the description "Scotch Whisky" can only be used on whisky produced in Scotland in accordance with strict production and labelling requirements. Requirements include that Scotch only be made from the raw materials of water, cereals and yeast and matured in Scotland for at least three years in oak casks.

The granting of GI status for "Scotch Whisky" greatly enhances the basic protection in Indonesia, which previously did not have a legal definition of Scotch Whisky. Indonesia now joins more than 100 other countries which have officially recognised Scotch as a Scottish product, produced according to traditional methods, and deserving of special protection.

Lindesay Low, Legal Deputy Director of the Scotch Whisky Association, said: "Scotch Whisky is a truly global drink enjoyed in over 180 countries across the globe, and securing GI protection in Indonesia is another important step in delivering future success for Scotland and the UK's most important Food and Drink export.

"Gaining increased protection for Scotch Whisky is fundamental to ensuring that consumers have confidence in the quality, provenance and history of what they are buying.

"Our successful application to register "Scotch Whisky" as a GI in Indonesia gives the industry a much greater level of legal protection and represents another important milestone for Scotch Whisky as its popularity continues to rise in new and diverse markets."

HE Mr Moazzam Malik, British Ambassador to Indonesia, ASEAN and Timor Leste said: "Indonesia is a rapidly developing G20 economy, the largest in South East Asia.

"Clear intellectual property protections and geographical indications will help British companies to expand their business and partnerships in Indonesia.

"We thank the Indonesian Government for creating a better environment for business through the recognition of Scotland's national drink."

Notes to editors

Geographical Indications (GI)

Only products that have a specific geographical origin and possess a quality and a reputation or other characteristic associated with that origin qualify for GI status. That means Scotch Whisky is recognised as a product that must be made in Scotland.

GIs were first formally recognised in the World Trade Organisation Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights in 1994. All WTO members must protect a GI from misuse.

The Scotch Whisky Association is also registering Scotch Whisky as a GI in as many countries as possible.

For further information please contact the SWA Press Office on 0141 221 0707 or email pressoffice@swa.org.uk