Brazil Breaks Ground, Recognizes Italian Flatbread Piadina Romagnola as First Foreign PGI

Berlin, Germany – November 7, 2025 – In a landmark decision for international food product protection, Brazil has officially recognized Piadina Romagnola as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), marking the first time a foreign food product has received this designation in the South American nation. This move not only safeguards the authenticity of this traditional Italian flatbread but also sets a precedent for other regional food producers seeking international recognition.

Piadina Romagnola, originating from the Romagna region of Italy, is a thin, unleavened flatbread traditionally cooked on a terracotta plate. The recognition by Brazil’s National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) signifies that only flatbread produced according to traditional methods within the designated Romagna region can be marketed as ‘Piadina Romagnola PGI’ within Brazilian territory.

“This is a significant victory for Italian exports and a crucial step in protecting the heritage and quality of our product,” explained a representative from the Consortium for the Protection of Piadina Romagnola PGI. “Counterfeiting is a serious concern, and this recognition offers vital protection for both consumers and producers.”

A Shifting Landscape for International Trade

The decision comes amidst a growing global trend towards protecting geographical indications – signs used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are linked to that place. While the European Union has a well-established system for protecting PGIs and Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) products, the recognition of Piadina Romagnola in Brazil signals a potential shift in trade policy within the South American nation.

“Brazil has historically focused on recognizing its own regional products,” noted a trade analyst specializing in agricultural policy. “This decision indicates a willingness to expand that recognition to include high-quality imported products, which could lead to increased trade opportunities for other regional food producers.”

Beyond Protection: A Boost for Italian Exports
The recognition is expected to significantly boost exports of authentic Piadina Romagnola to Brazil. Market research suggests a growing demand for artisanal and imported food products within the Brazilian market, particularly among consumers seeking authentic culinary experiences. The PGI designation provides a clear signal of quality and origin, giving consumers confidence in the product’s authenticity.

“Consumers are increasingly discerning and are willing to pay a premium for products with a known origin and a proven quality,” explained a market research specialist focusing on the Brazilian food market. “The PGI label acts as a trust mark, assuring consumers that they are getting the real thing.”

A Coordinated Effort and the ‘Choose the European Friendship’ Project
The Consortium for the Protection of Piadina Romagnola PGI has been actively working to promote the product internationally for several years. A key component of this effort is the ‘Choose the European Friendship’ project, a collaborative initiative co-funded by the European Union. The project aims to increase awareness of Piadina Romagnola within the German and Brazilian markets through targeted marketing campaigns and promotional events.

“We’re investing heavily in promoting the unique characteristics and culinary versatility of Piadina Romagnola,” stated a representative from the ‘Choose the European Friendship’ project. “Our goal is to establish Piadina Romagnola as a recognized and beloved culinary staple within these key markets.”

Impact on Other Regional Foods
The recognition of Piadina Romagnola in Brazil is expected to pave the way for other regional food producers seeking international protection. Several European Union countries are reportedly exploring similar applications with Brazil, hoping to capitalize on the newly established framework.

“This is a landmark decision that could unlock significant opportunities for other regional food producers,” explained a trade lawyer specializing in intellectual property rights. “It sets a precedent for recognizing the value of geographical indications and protecting the heritage of regional products.”

The move is also being watched closely by producers in other regions, including Latin America and Asia, who are eager to see how Brazil’s new policy will impact their own efforts to protect their regional specialties.

Challenges Remain

Despite the positive outlook, challenges remain. Enforcement of the PGI designation within Brazil will be crucial to ensure that only authentic Piadina Romagnola is marketed as such. The Consortium for the Protection of Piadina Romagnola PGI is working closely with Brazilian authorities to establish effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

“We are committed to working with Brazilian authorities to protect the integrity of the PGI designation and ensure that consumers are not misled,” stated a representative from the Consortium. “Robust enforcement mechanisms are essential to maintain the value of the PGI label.”

Ultimately, the recognition of Piadina Romagnola in Brazil represents a significant step towards protecting regional food heritage and promoting fair trade practices. As more countries embrace the importance of geographical indications, consumers around the world will benefit from increased transparency and access to authentic, high-quality regional products.