GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: PROPOSITION OF AN INTEGRATIVE MODEL BASED ON THE CASE OF VALE DOS VINHEDOS

Abstract

Geographical Indications (GIs) have consolidated in Brazil as instruments of territorial value creation and competitive differentiation by linking product quality, reputation, and cultural identity to their geographic origin. Yet the challenge remains to integrate GIs with robust Technology Transfer (TT) routines that raise quality and sustainability standards without eroding terroir distinctiveness. This article aims to demonstrate that TT, anchored in collaborative governance, acts as a driver of authenticity, competitiveness, and sustainability for GIs; to propose an integrative GI–TT model structured around four axes (territorial technological innovation; IP protection/licensing; collaborative governance; and market strategies and traceability); and to derive propositions applicable to other regions and to professional training. Methodologically, we adopt a qualitative, exploratory, documentary approach: (I) a literature and institutional review on legal frameworks, TT policies, and GI experiences; (II) analysis of dossiers and official materials (INPI, sectoral associations, and government bodies); and (III) a case study of Vale dos Vinhedos, triangulating evidence on collective organization, technology adoption, and territorial effects. Results indicate that: (a) the GI operates as a collective intellectual property asset dependent on coordination and technical standards; (b) the national legal framework favors agreements, licensing, and partnerships between research institutions (ICTs) and GI-managing associations; (c) in Vale dos Vinhedos, partnerships with Embrapa and universities enable TT consistent with the DO, precision viticulture, selected yeasts, biological control, and traceability strengthening reputation, compliance, and wine tourism; (d) the four-axis GI–TT model is operationalizable and yields gains in quality and market positioning; and (e) barriers persist regarding scientific-technological infrastructure, actor coordination, and the presence of Technology Innovation Nuclei (NITs) in rural territories. We conclude that integrating TT into GIs, under participatory territorial governance and performance metrics, turns innovation into a co-constructed process capable of raising production standards without sacrificing authenticity, expanding value capture, and sustaining regional development trajectories. The proposed model offers a conceptual basis and practical guidelines for public policy, associative management, and professional education, fostering replication in other Brazilian GIs.