Toronto – This is a historic result for Parma Ham that will arrive in Canada following the free trade agreement. CETA – Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement – introduces, among other things, a framework for Geographical Indications which are granted a special status and greater protection on the Canadian market. Specifically, the agreement provides for the coexistence of the name “Prosciutto di Parma” and the brand “Parma” currently owned by the Canadian company, Maple Leaf. For over 20 years, Parma Ham was sold in Canada as “The Original Prosciutto/Le Jambon Original”, while there is a Canadian raw ham sold regularly under the registered trademark “Parma”. Over the years, the Parma Ham Consortium has promoted several legal actions by asking for the cancellation of the trademark, but with a negative result. (9Colonne)
