It was organised by the Slovenian Intellectual Property Office in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sport, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food, the Slovenian Tourist Board and key international partners such as the World Intellectual Property Organisation, the European Union Intellectual Property Office and the European Commission.

The event brought together more than 250 participants, including representatives of national and international institutions, producers and experts in the field of geographical indications and collective trademarks. Discussions and panels highlighted best practices, challenges and opportunities in this field and showcased the achievements of Slovenian and international producers.

The conference was opened by the Director of the Slovenian Intellectual Property Office, Ms. Karin Žvokelj, who in her opening speech stressed the importance of raising awareness about the value and use of geographical indications and collective marks. "These rights are not just legal protections, but key assets to be nurtured, used and enriched by their holders," she said. She explained that Slovenia is proud of its long tradition of using GIs, but that it is still underused, especially in the area of non-food products, where only Idrija lace and Ribnica woodenware are currently registered.

The Minister of the Economy, Tourism and Sport Matjaž Han also addressed the gathering. In his speech, Mr Han emphasised the strategic importance of intellectual property for the development of the economy and society. "Geographical indications and collective trademarks play an indispensable role in protecting our local resources and traditions. They guarantee the quality and authenticity of products, which not only builds consumer confidence but also gives access to new markets," said Mr Han.

For his part, João Negrão, Executive Director of the European Union Intellectual Property Office, stressed the importance of common European solutions to protect geographical indications, notably through the introduction of new legislation for craft and industrial products.

The two-day programme included a series of panel discussions and presentations addressing key topics such as the protection of GIs in the food and non-food industries, the role of collective trademarks in tourism and gastronomy, and best practices in the protection of these rights.

Participants also had the opportunity to visit an exhibition of products with a protected geographical indication and an exhibition of lace, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and quality craftsmanship from Slovenia and abroad.

The conclusions of the conference underlined the need for further cooperation between national and international stakeholders to protect and promote GIs and collective marks even more effectively. The event was also an opportunity to exchange best practices and to establish new links that will help develop the field in the future.