8. The representative of China said that, since it was the first time her delegation took the floor on this issue, it would focus its intervention on the points listed by the Chairperson in document JOB(02)/49. As regards the definition of "geographical indications" (GIs), and their eligibility for inclusion in the system, the Chinese delegation's view, at this stage, was to follow the definition of geographical indications under Article 22.1 of the TRIPS Agreement. With regard to the purpose of the notification and registration system, the Chinese delegation's view was that such a system according to Article 23.4 must be to facilitate the protection of GIs of wines and spirits at the level which was already established pursuant to the TRIPS Agreement and not to enhance the level of the protection. As regards the nature of the system, the Chinese delegation had some concerns. Firstly, the balance of interests should be fully considered when establishing a multilateral system. Not all WTO Members were producers of wines and spirits and this should be taken into account when discussing the system. Secondly, participation should be considered with caution if the proposed system were to have binding effects on all Members.
