Cop's kitten; more protection for GIs

Uncool for cats

Another in the IPKat’s (very) occasional series of improbable trade mark licences. The BBC reports that Thai police who commit minor disciplinary offences will be punished by the power of the cat. The rogue officers will be forced to wear arm bands featuring the cartoon character Hello Kitty and two pink hearts. The cartoon character, beloved of teenage girls, was introduced by Sanrio in 1974. It now features on a huge range of products in East Asia.

The IPKat can’t really see how the link-up will benefit the reputation of either party.


China and EU recognise GIs

A belated story from the People’s Daily Online. In mid-July, China and the EU reached a reciprocal agreement to protect ten of each others’ geographical indications apiece. On the Chinese side are Guangxi Honey Pomelo and Shaanxi Apples. The EU products include Prosciutto di Parma ham and Roquefort. The full application process now follows, which is expected to take a year.

The IPKat welcomes the news. If geographical indications are worth protecting as a matter of principle, they are worth protecting wherever they originate.