site.btaNew EU System for Craft Geographical Indications Presented in Sofia as Bulgaria Looks to Protect Cultural Heritage and Boost Regional Economy

An international conference titled Bulgarian Crafts – Traditions Meet the Future took place in Sofia on Tuesday, showcasing the European Union’s new registration regime for Geographical Indications (GIs) for craft and industrial products.

The forum was organized by the Bulgarian Patent Office in cooperation with the European Commission and the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) as part of the EU Capital Tour. It brought together EU officials, government representatives, local authorities and craftspeople to discuss how the new regulation can protect traditional products such as Troyan pottery, Chiprovtsi carpets and Bulgarian sgraffito ceramics, and position them competitively on the European market.

Patent Office Head Olya Dimitrova said that Bulgaria boasts a rich heritage of crafts, from textiles and ceramics to jewellery-making and leatherwork, all rooted in a deep spiritual connection to tradition. “I believe that it is precisely through effective protection of geographical indications that we can not only preserve these values, but also boost regional business, encourage younger generations to develop them, and position Bulgarian craft products on the European and global markets,” Dimitrova said.

She added that the reform of the GI regime brings new visibility and market value to traditional crafts and that the Patent Office would initiate a series of meetings with the National Chamber of Crafts and individual producers to identify and register qualifying products. “We will also seek expert legal assistance from our industrial property representatives and specialized law firms,” Dimitrova said.

EUIPO Deputy Executive Director Edyta Demby-Siwek praised Bulgaria’s tradition-rich craft sector and highlighted the importance of GIs not just for economic development, but for cultural preservation. “Our mission is to assist small entrepreneurs in protecting their intellectual property,” Demby-Siwek said. She called the new system “a great opportunity for culture” and mentioned Bulgarian yoghurt, Troyan pottery and the Etar Museum as excellent examples of national craftsmanship.

Demby-Siwek said GIs generate EUR 75 billion annually across the EU in food and beverages and could offer similar benefits for craft products. “Bulgaria is well-positioned to become a leader in this process,” she said.

Claudia Martinez Felix, Deputy Head of the Intellectual Property Unit at the European Commission, explained via video address that over 1,000 products across Europe could be eligible under the new GI framework. “This is a way to revive local craftsmanship,” Martinez Felix said, adding that the registration process would take under six months and could contribute up to 300,000 new jobs.

National Chamber of Crafts Chair Ivan Vlaev welcomed the regulation, calling it essential for combating market-saturating fake handicrafts that undermine Bulgaria’s authentic artisans. “We hope the regulation will benefit our long-standing struggle against cheap imitations that flood the market,” Vlaev said. He asked for clarity on implementation, including access to technical assistance, reporting procedures for counterfeit goods and the role of the Patent Office.

Deputy Mayor of Troyan Veronika Todorova spoke of the region’s deep-rooted craft traditions but warned of challenges including a decline in young artisans, outdated market structures and dwindling interest in decorative heritage. “Opportunities lie in creating cooperatives and linking crafts more closely with tourism and culture,” Todorova said.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Lozana Vassileva underlined the Ministry’s role in European quality schemes and said Bulgaria already has several protected food products. “I welcome the united efforts of the institutions to ensure a working mechanism to support the Bulgarian economy through the promotion of European quality schemes,” Vassileva said. She added that further support is possible under the Strategic Plan for Agricultural Development.

Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Nevena Lazarova said crafts were a key driver of regional development, entrepreneurship and job creation in small settlements. “The Ministry will continue working with all stakeholders to support the recognition of Bulgarian crafts as authentic and protected,” Lazarova said.

Deputy Minister of Tourism Pavlin Petrov described craftsmanship as “the wealth of Bulgaria” and an essential part of the country’s cultural and tourism map. “Through culture, we offer new tourist routes and experiences that cannot be found anywhere else,” Petrov said. He added that cultural tourism is vital for promoting Bulgaria globally and enriching its tourism product.