FAO promotes sustainable agriculture in Belarus through geographical indications

Agriculture is a foundational pillar of the economy of Belarus, shaping food security, nutrition and rural well-being. Belarusian agrifood system products are deeply rooted in cultural traditions, preserving genetic diversity while integrating modern technologies to enhance quality and value. As the country becomes more integrated into the global economy, the need to improve rural development and find profitable markets for producers and suppliers is increasing. To reach this goal, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) promotes geographical indications as facilitators.

To that end, FAO, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food of Belarus and the Institute of System Research in Agro-Industrial Complex of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, convened an inception workshop for the project Strengthening Sustainable Food Systems through Geographical Indications on 23 January 2026 in Minsk, Belarus. 

The event brought together over 50 participants – government officials, experts, researchers and producers, with half of them joining online –  from different regions of Belarus to identify and underline the benefits of geographical indications as tools for empowering stakeholders, improving the value chain and supporting the development and competitiveness of the country’s agricultural sector.

Geographical indications, comprising designations of origin and indications of source, link a product’s reputation and quality to its specific geographical origin. Currently, just three national products (mineral water Minskaya, Lidskiy kvass and Lidskoye pivo) are registered as geographical indications in Belarus, alongside 37 foreign products. The inception workshop aimed to raise awareness of geographical indications and their potential advantages. 

“Geographical indications represent an important means of linking the unique qualities of local products with broader market opportunities while preserving traditions and supporting the sustainable development of agriculture and the local economy,” said Dmitry Zvyagintsev, FAO Policy Officer and Lead Technical Officer of the project, in his welcome remarks. “Through this initiative, FAO seeks to strengthen national capacities and support the competitiveness of Belarusian agriculture and a more seamless integration into global markets.”

At the event, FAO experts presented international perspectives on geographical indications, including their global significance, codes of practice and certification systems. Sessions highlighted experiences from other countries in the region (including Georgia, Republic of Moldova, Türkiye and Uzbekistan), showcasing how geographical indications can contribute to diversified rural economies. Interactive discussions encouraged participants to identify potential Belarusian products suitable for geographical indications, along with ways to promote them in domestic and foreign markets.
The workshop marked a significant step for resilient, inclusive and competitive agrifood systems in Belarus.