Japan may recognize some PDO and PGI olive oils from European countries

The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries will consider recognizing a list of 17 European food products with protected geographical indicators. The list includes five types of extra virgin olive oils from four European Union countries, along with ham, cheese, seasoning, sausage, bread and hops. The following olive oils with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) or Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status were included in the agreement: The ministry published the list earlier this month and will consider public comments on the issue until November. Once the public comment period has closed, the ministry will hold an expert committee before deciding on the issue. Products with PDO or PGI are big business in Europe. A 2020 study from the European Commission found that products with either a PDO or PGI are worth almost €75 billion each year. Extra virgin olive oils make up €277 million of that total. Currently, there are 133 extra virgin olive oils from seven ...