Geographical Indications, Sustainability, and Competition Law: Navigating the Intersection of Quality Standards and Sustainability Agreements

This paper explores the intricate relationship between geographical indications (GIs), sustainability, and competition law, framed by the social, economic, and environmental dynamics within agricultural communities. Initially, GIs such as PDO and PGI served as market tools to protect agricultural incomes and promote sustainable production. However, the EU's sustainability agenda, particularly through the Green Deal and Farm to Fork strategies, has reoriented GIs towards more robust sustainability practices. This shift is underscored by Regulation EU 2024/1143, notably Article 7, which enables producer groups to implement practices surpassing basic legal standards. The recalibration of sustainable agriculture's relationship with competition law necessitates new regulatory approaches. The Farm to Fork strategy anticipates clearer competition rules for collective sustainability initiatives. Moreover, Article 210a of the 2024 CAP exempts certain sustainability agreements from competition constraints, facilitating both horizontal and vertical collaborations to enhance supply chain sustainability. This analysis, following European Commission guidelines, examines the economic and legal transformations under these regulations, highlighting opportunities for farmers and communities. Ultimately, the synergies among GIs, sustainability agreements, and competition law exemptions pave the way for sustainable practices, fostering cooperation and advancing the EU’s goals for sustainable food systems and community welfare.