Switzerland and Austria in Conflict over Cheese Name
Switzerland and Austria are engaged in a legal dispute over the name of the renowned "Emmentaler" cheese. Switzerland intends to register "Emmentaler" as a trademark for cheese produced in the Emmental Valley, located in the canton of Bern, according to albinfo.ch.
Austrian cheese producers oppose this move, arguing that "Emmentaler" has long been used generically and cannot be exclusively claimed by Switzerland. They highlight that Austria produces about 14,000 tons of Emmentaler cheese annually, predominantly in the Vorarlberg region.
European Commission and Legal Proceedings
The European Commission has supported Austria and several other EU countries that also claim the cheese's origin. This ruling has led Switzerland to appeal to the European Court of Justice.
Previous Legal Disputes
This is not the first time Emmentaler cheese has been involved in legal conflicts. The cheese, well-known for its holes, has faced previous disputes over its designation of origin and trademark protection across international markets.
Additional Unrelated Statement
US President Donald Trump has called last night's election "an interesting evening."
However, this comment does not relate to the cheese dispute.
"Last night, you know, it wasn't expected to be..."
Author's summary: The trademark dispute over "Emmentaler" cheese highlights ongoing challenges in protecting regional food names amid competing claims from Switzerland and Austria within the EU framework.