The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) is pleased to announce that Gondomar has become the twenty-third European Union (EU) and the second Portuguese city to join the Authenticities network as part of the European Cooperation Project ECP5 – European Network of Authenticities.
On 22 June 2026, the Portuguese Institute of Industrial Property (INPI), the Municipality of Gondomar, ACertifica and Contrastaria/Imprensa Nacional-Casa da Moeda (INCM) signed of a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise the certification. This commitment reinforces the shared commitment to promoting intellectual property rights, supporting authentic products and local traditions, and raising awareness of the harmful effects of counterfeiting.
As part of the kick-off media event, EUIPO Executive Director João Negrão addressed participants through a recorded video message, welcoming Gondomar to the network and highlighting the importance of the initiative:
“Authenticities bring together cities, national offices, businesses, and citizens around a common mission: to promote the value of intellectual property and to confront the very real damage caused by counterfeiting. Its name carries its message – authentic products, authentic places, authentic identities.”
In his message, the Executive Director underlined the growing challenge posed by counterfeiting, noting that imports of counterfeit goods into the European Union are estimated at 99 billion euros per year and emphasised the importance of awareness raising and education, particularly amongst younger consumers.
He also highlighted Gondomar's unique strengths as a municipality, combining a thriving tourism industry with a strong industrial and artisanal tradition. Particular attention was given to the city's famous filigree craftsmanship, which is an internationally recognised symbol of Portuguese jewellery-making and an important part of the region's cultural heritage. Gondomar's filigree is currently the subject of a Craft and Industrial Geographical Indication application under examination by the EUIPO.
By joining the Authenticities network, Gondomar reinforces its commitment to quality, authenticity and excellence. Throughout the year, a series of awareness-raising activities will be organised locally to promote the value of intellectual property rights and encourage responsible consumer choices.
The certification of Gondomar marks another important step in the continued expansion of the Authenticities network across Europe, bringing together communities committed to protecting creativity, innovation and cultural heritage for future generations.
