Geographical Indications Law in Nicaragua
Geographical Indications (GI) Law in Nicaragua
1. Legal Framework
Nicaragua has a dedicated and structured legal framework for the protection of Geographical Indications (GIs), primarily governed by:
Law No. 380 – Law on Trademarks and Other Distinctive Signs
(Ley N° 380 - Ley de Marcas y Otros Signos Distintivos)
Regulations to Law No. 380
Administered by the Registro de la Propiedad Intelectual (RPI), under the Ministry of Development, Industry and Trade (MIFIC).
Nicaragua recognizes both Denominations of Origin (Denominaciones de Origen) and Indications of Source (Indicaciones Geográficas) as distinct forms of protection.
2. Types of GI Protection
| Type | Definition |
|---|---|
| Indicación Geográfica (IG) | Identifies a product originating from a region where a specific quality or reputation is linked to its origin. |
| Denominación de Origen (DO) | Stronger protection; requires all production and quality attributes to be essentially and exclusively linked to the geographical area. |
3. Registration Process
Application Filed with RPI (Registro de la Propiedad Intelectual).
The application must include:
Definition of the geographical area.
Description of the product.
Characteristics and qualities attributed to the origin.
Production standards.
Documents proving reputation and linkage.
Examination by RPI for formal and substantive compliance.
Publication for Opposition (30-day window).
Certificate of Registration issued if no valid opposition is filed.
4. Enforcement
Exclusive rights are granted to producers and associations for registered GIs/DOs.
Unauthorized or misleading use of a GI can result in:
Administrative sanctions
Civil litigation
Possible border measures by Customs authorities
5. International Treaties and Agreements
Nicaragua is a party to several international agreements that support GI protection:
WTO TRIPS Agreement – setting minimum standards for GI protection.
Lisbon Agreement (via WIPO) – for the international protection of appellations of origin.
Paris Convention – covering broader IP rights.
Additionally, Nicaragua often honors bilateral and regional agreements, especially within Central America and Latin America, for mutual recognition of GIs.
6. Examples of Nicaraguan GIs
Café de Jinotega – Coffee from the Jinotega region, known for its unique aroma and flavor.
Café de Matagalpa – Another distinct highland coffee.
Queso Chontaleño – Traditional cheese from the Chontales region.
7. Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | Law No. 380 and its Regulations |
| Administering Authority | RPI (Registro de la Propiedad Intelectual), MIFIC |
| Types of GI Protection | Geographical Indication (IG), Denomination of Origin (DO) |
| Registration Required? | Yes |
| Enforcement | Civil and administrative actions, customs involvement |
| International Agreements | TRIPS, Lisbon Agreement, Paris Convention |
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