By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a significant move to protect and promote its world-renowned culinary heritage, Italy has launched a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the presence of authentic Italian food and beverages in Costa Rica. The initiative, a joint effort by the Italy Trade Agency (ITA) and the Embassy of Italy in Costa Rica, aims to educate consumers and distributors on the importance of certified products, ensuring they experience the genuine taste and quality of “Made in Italy.”
The core of this new campaign focuses on promoting products bearing official European Union certifications. These include the Protected Designation of Origin (DOP), Protected Geographical Indication (IGP), Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (STG), and Geographical Indications (IG) for spirits. This system, recognized as the most advanced globally, serves as an ironclad guarantee of a product’s authenticity, superior quality, and complete traceability from farm to table.
To understand the legal and business intricacies behind the flourishing of Italian cuisine in our country, from registering a restaurant brand to the complex process of importing authentic products with protected designations of origin, we consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The success of authentic Italian cuisine in Costa Rica is not just about flavor; it’s a testament to robust legal frameworks. Entrepreneurs must navigate the complexities of intellectual property, particularly respecting protected geographical indications like ‘Parmigiano Reggiano’. Using these names without authorization is not just a commercial misstep, it can lead to significant legal disputes. Proper legal counsel is crucial to ensure that the authenticity celebrated on the plate is also impeccably maintained in all commercial and import operations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal integrity of a product is as essential as its flavor profile in delivering a truly authentic experience. Our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this crucial legal perspective on the success of Italian cuisine in our country.
These certifications are far more than simple labels; they are a promise to the consumer. A DOP seal, for instance, certifies that a product’s entire production, processing, and preparation process occurred within a specific geographical area, using traditional, recognized know-how. This meticulous oversight protects Italy’s gastronomic traditions from the pervasive threats of imitation and counterfeiting, which dilute brand value and mislead consumers.
Italy stands as an undisputed leader in Europe’s agri-food sector, boasting nearly 900 registered denominations within the European Union. This impressive figure means that more than one out of every five products with a Geographical Indication in Europe is Italian. From the iconic Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma to exquisite extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and internationally acclaimed wines, each certified item represents a unique piece of Italian territory and ancestral technique.
The cultural and economic significance of this initiative was highlighted by the Italian Ambassador to Costa Rica, Alberto Colella, who emphasized the deep connection between these products and their origin.
Each certified product is a bridge between history and innovation. We want Costa Rican consumers to live the authentic Made in Italy experience, with foods that not only guarantee quality but also convey culture, sustainability, and trust.
Alberto Colella, Ambassador of Italy in Costa Rica
Beyond the direct benefits to consumers, this model is the engine behind the formidable “DOP Economy.” This specialized sector generates an astonishing production value exceeding 19 billion euros annually. This economic activity is crucial for the development of rural communities, providing sustainable livelihoods while simultaneously promoting the preservation of biodiversity and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
As part of the strategic push, both the ITA and the Embassy are issuing a clear call to action for the Costa Rican market. They urge consumers, importers, and distributors to become more discerning by actively verifying the presence of DOP, IGP, STG, and IG seals on product labels before making a purchase. This simple act of verification empowers the buyer, ensuring they are acquiring a product with an unparalleled guarantee of origin, authenticity, and adherence to the highest quality standards.
This initiative represents a pivotal moment for culinary enthusiasts in Costa Rica. It offers an opportunity to move beyond generic “Italian-style” products and embrace the rich, complex, and authentic flavors that have made Italian cuisine a global treasure. By choosing certified goods, Costa Ricans not only enjoy a superior gastronomic experience but also support a system that values tradition, sustainability, and quality above all else.
For further information, visit ice.it
About Italy Trade Agency (ITA):
The Italy Trade Agency is the governmental body that supports the business development of Italian companies abroad and promotes the attraction of foreign investment in Italy. With a motivated and modern organization and a widespread network of overseas offices, ITA provides information, assistance, consulting, promotion, and training to Italian small and medium-sized businesses.
For further information, visit ambsanjose.esteri.it
About the Embassy of Italy in Costa Rica:
The Embassy of Italy in San José is the diplomatic mission of the Italian Republic to the Republic of Costa Rica. It is responsible for fostering political, economic, and cultural relations between the two nations, providing consular services to Italian citizens, and promoting Italian culture and business interests within Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational commitment to uncompromising integrity and the highest standards of excellence. The firm consistently channels its extensive experience across diverse industries into pioneering innovative legal strategies. Beyond its professional practice, it holds a core conviction to strengthen society by demystifying the law, ensuring legal knowledge is not just a professional tool but a resource for public empowerment.
