Pakistan has welcomed a ruling by the Federal Court of Australia dismissing an appeal by India’s Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) over exclusive rights to the term “Basmati.”
The Australian court also ordered APEDA to pay the respondent’s legal costs, according to Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce.
Court Upholds Earlier Basmati Ruling
APEDA had sought to register “Basmati” as a certification trademark for rice in Australia. However, an Australian trademark authority rejected the application on December 22, 2022.
The authority found that the term could not distinguish rice certified by APEDA from Basmati rice produced and marketed by other legitimate traders.
APEDA subsequently challenged the decision before the Federal Court of Australia. The court has now dismissed the appeal.
As a result, the earlier findings remain in place, including recognition that Basmati rice is also produced in Pakistan and that Pakistani traders have legitimate rights to use the term.
Pakistan Highlights Geographical Link
Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce described the ruling as a significant development in the country’s position on Basmati.
The ministry said Basmati is a geographical indication associated with a historically recognised growing region covering areas of both Pakistan and India.
Moreover, Pakistan argued that no single national authority should have exclusive control over the Basmati name. Such control could prevent producers and exporters from other recognised regions from using the term.
Boost for Pakistani Rice Exporters
The decision is expected to support the commercial and intellectual-property interests of Pakistani Basmati growers, millers, and exporters.
In particular, the ruling helps preserve their ability to market authentic Pakistani Basmati rice in Australia.
The outcome could also strengthen Pakistan’s efforts to protect its agricultural products in international markets.
Government Welcomes the Decision
The Ministry of Commerce said it has worked with relevant institutions and stakeholders to defend Pakistan’s interests in international markets.
It added that the government will continue efforts to protect Basmati in foreign jurisdictions based on its historical origin, established reputation, and distinctive qualities.
Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan praised officials, ministry teams, and other stakeholders for their coordinated efforts.
He described the ruling as an important achievement for Pakistan’s agricultural heritage, commercial interests, and international export identity.
A Significant Win for Pakistan’s Basmati Industry
Overall, the Australian court’s decision represents an important legal and commercial development for Pakistan’s rice industry.
The ruling allows Pakistani producers and exporters to continue using the Basmati name in Australia and strengthens Pakistan’s position in future international trademark and geographical-indication disputes.
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