CONSIDERATIONS ON DISTINCTIVE SIGNS OF COLLECTIVE USE: GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS, COLLECTIVE MARKS AND THE POSSIBILITY OF VALUING A COLLECTIVITY

Abstract

Trademarks and Geographical Indications act as distinctive signs capable of informing qualities and characteristics present in a given good, which one cannot obtain through the five senses of human perception. However, unlike trademarks, the products that have Geographical Indication, which are mainly represented by those with Denomination of Origin, integrate specificities of local material and immaterial resources that promote their differentiation in the market. Thus, Geographical Indications can also play an important role in territorial development. This study aims to present some considerations about these signs of collective use in Brazil, focusing
on Geographical Indications and Collective Marks, in addition to legal aspects and the way such signs can be used in the organization of collectivities, adding value to products and services as well as in the local development. Considering this possibility of overflowing, we will present brief discussions on the way one can identify the correct sign for the local reality.