Traditional Specialties Guaranteed (ETG) in Ecuador: Protecting Tradition with Legal Recognition

Traditional Specialties Guaranteed (ETG) are a legal category within Ecuador’s intellectual property framework, aimed at protecting agri-food products whose composition or method of preparation is based on traditional practices passed down through generations. Unlike Designations of Origin or Geographical Indications, ETGs do not require a specific territorial link; rather, their legal value is founded on authenticity and the continuity of cultural tradition.

The purpose of this legal recognition is to preserve Ecuador’s cultural and gastronomic heritage, reinforce national identity, and enable legitimate product differentiation in the market. In addition, ETGs provide effective protection against imitation, misuse, and acts of unfair competition.

ETGs are regulated under the Organic Code of the Social Economy of Knowledge, Creativity and Innovation (Código de Ingenios). This legal framework allows for the registration of agricultural or food products with at least thirty years of documented tradition in their preparation or composition. The registration grants the holder the exclusive right to use the “ETG” designation, as well as access to legal remedies for the protection of their product in the marketplace.

The registration process is managed by the National Service for Intellectual Rights (SENADI), in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) and, where applicable, with the National Institute of Cultural Heritage (INPC) for products linked to intangible heritage.

Since 2017, Ecuador has officially recognized the following Traditional Specialties Guaranteed:

• Bizcocho de Cayambe (Cayambe)
• Cascaritas (Azogues)
• Ceviche de canchalagua (Galápagos)
• Chugchucaras (Latacunga)
• Tamal lojano (Loja)
• Mote pata (Cuenca)
• Sango de verde (Machala)
• Encanutado de bocachico (Quevedo)
• Encebollado (Esmeraldas)
• Cocada negra (Esmeraldas)

These products represent the richness and diversity of Ecuadorian cuisine. Their ETG status guarantees authenticity, safeguards the ancestral knowledge behind their preparation, and fosters fair and sustainable economic development in local communities.

At Quevedo & Ponce, we provide expert legal counsel in intellectual property, cultural heritage, and collective rights. Our team supports clients through every stage of the ETG application, registration, and enforcement process before SENADI.