Using geographical indications as a development tool

In comparing the contrasting situations of the “Penja pepper” and “Oku white honey” supply chains after their registration as geographical indications (GI) in Cameroon, this technical paper identifies the conditions under which a GI can be a development tool for producers. The prerequisites: a strong link between a product’s qualities and its origin, market growth potential, an information asymmetry about this market, a producers’ organization wishing to cooperate, and a system of traceability and fraud prevention. The benefits of GIs are all the greater since the costs of production and coordination are controlled, quality bonuses are equitably distributed in the supply chain, and scarce resources are well managed. Elements for a broader territorial development analysis are mentioned.