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366 - Geographical Indications & Jamaican Rum

Down to Business English: Business News to Improve your Business English

Release Date: 04/19/2025

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Brief

Some products are famous because of where they come from — like Champagne from France or Scotch whisky from Scotland. Products like these are protected by something called a Geographical Indication, or GI. A GI means the product must be made in a certain place and follow certain rules. But sometimes, these rules can cause problems. In Jamaica, a new rule about Jamaican rum is causing a big debate.

Overview

In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan explain what Geographical Indications are and why they are important in international business. They look at examples like Champagne and parmesan cheese and discuss how GIs help protect traditional products. They also talk about a disagreement in Jamaica, where a new GI rule for rum is causing trouble for some producers.

Insights

Skip and Dez talk about GIs and help you build your business English vocabulary and listening skills. Key takeaways include:

  1. What a Geographical Indication is and why it is different from a trademark.
  2. How GIs help local businesses and protect product quality.
  3. Why Jamaican rum producers are arguing about new GI rules.

In Summary

D2B 366 explains how Geographical Indications protect famous products — and how a new rule is shaking up Jamaica’s rum industry.

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