Association of European Regions for Products of Origin

About AREPO

The Association of European Regions for Products of Origin (AREPO) is a network
of regions and producer associations that deals with products of origin.
AREPO aims to promote and defend the interests of producers and consumers of European regions
involved in the valorization of quality food products.

Missions

In relation to Regions

  • Developing Geographical Indications and quality products as tools for rural development and territorial planning;
  • Strengthening EU policy on Geographical Indications and origin products.

In relation to producers

  • Guaranteeing good income conditions for producers;
  • Ensuring an adequate protection of products of origin on the European market as well as on third countries;
  • Ensuring that quality finds its proper place within promotion policies.

In relation to consumers

  • Ensuring appropriate communication and accurate information.

Origin and Evolution

AREPO was established in May 2004 in Bordeaux by 16 regions from six European countries, and it now represents
33 European regions and over 700 associations of producers for over 50% of European GIs.

Structure

College of Regions

Chaired by the Region of Extremadura.

College of Producers Representatives

Chaired by the Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

College of Associated Members

Consultative body composed of the organisations that have signed a partnership agreement with AREPO (thematic, territorial, scientific organisations and networks, etc.).

AREPO is supported in its work by a Scientific Council, composed of experts from universities and research centres from its member regions.

Executive Board

It is the governing body of the association. It directs the work and deliberates in the interval between the General Assemblies.
The Executive Board is composed of three full members:

President

A new President is elected every three years by AREPO member regions. The Region of Extremadura was elected for the Presidency of AREPO in October 2021. Currently, the President is Ms. Begoña García Bernal, Regional Minister for Agriculture, Rural Development, Population and Territory of Extremadura.

Vice-President

The candidate for the vice-presidency of the Association is proposed to the vote of the General Assembly by the College of Producers’ Representatives. Currently, the vice-presidency is held by the representatives of the producers of the Emilia-Romagna Region, the Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Treasurer

Elected by the General Assembly. This role is currently performed by the region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Currently, the Treasurer is Ms. Patricia Picard, Regional Councillor of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

Secretary General

The Secretary General, Laurent Gomez, leads and animates the network. The General Secretariat is based in Bordeaux at the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region.

A Representation office in Brussels, hosted by Emilia Romagna Region, coordinates lobbying activities and relations with the European institutions.