Apex Law Chamber

Geographical Indications

Protecting Origin, Reputation, and the Value of Place

Himalayan tea and spices arranged over a subtle topographic relief

Apex Law Chamber advises businesses, producer groups and other stakeholders on the protection and commercial use of Geographical Indications (GIs).

Nepal does not currently have a dedicated domestic law specifically governing Geographical Indications. Protection and enforcement may therefore need to be considered through existing legal frameworks, including Nepal's obligations under the TRIPS Agreement, the Paris Convention, and applicable provisions of the Consumer Protection Act.

We advise on GI protection strategies, misuse and misleading geographical references, unauthorised use of geographical names, and available enforcement options. We also assist clients in assessing the relationship between GIs, trademarks and other forms of intellectual property protection, particularly where geographical reputation and commercial branding overlap.

Frequently asked questions

Does Nepal have a geographical indication law?

Not a dedicated one. There is no sui generis GI register, so origin-linked names are protected in practice through registration of a collective trademark.

Which Nepali products could qualify?

Products with a genuine link between quality or reputation and place: Ilam tea, Jomsom apple, Khukuri, Palpali Dhaka, Yarsagumba and Bhaktapur's Juju Dhau among them.

What does a collective mark application need?

A defined product specification, a defined geographical area, a body able to hold the mark on behalf of producers, and rules of use that can actually be enforced against a member who falls short.

How is misuse of a regional name stopped?

Through opposition and cancellation of conflicting marks, administrative complaint, action under the Consumer Protection Act 2018 and, where necessary, litigation.

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