During the period 4–5 November 2025, the State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI) participated in the workshop organized by the National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History, with the support of the UNESCO Office in Venice, within the framework of the International Food Atlas Project. The event took place in Chisinau and within the Orheiul Vechi Cultural-Natural Reserve, bringing together international experts, representatives of local communities, public authorities and non-governmental organizations.

The workshop provided a framework for dialogue and exchange of good practices on the safeguarding of food heritage as part of the intangible cultural heritage. Several case studies from several European Union states were presented, highlighting models for protecting and enhancing traditional gastronomy. One of the objectives of this project is to prepare nominations from our country for inclusion in the International Food Atlas – an online platform under development under the auspices of UNESCO.

AGEPI was represented by Victoria Pulbere, Deputy Head of the Trademarks and Industrial Design Directorate, who delivered a presentation on “Geographical Indications, Appellations of Origin and Traditional Specialties Guaranteed: Protection, Registration and Use. Case Studies”.

The presentation highlighted the importance of the geographical indications protection system in preserving cultural identity, promoting authentic Moldovan products and stimulating local economic development – ​​from increasing the value of products and strengthening consumer confidence in their quality and origin to boosting gastronomic tourism.

By participating in this workshop, AGEPI contributed to promoting the system of protection of geographical indications, appelations of origin and traditional specialties guaranteed, and to strengthening inter-institutional cooperation in the field of cultural and gastronomic heritage.