The Relationship Between Social Capital and Geographical Indications. A Comparative Case Study of Prosciutto Veneto Berico Euganeo PDO (Italy) and Jamón de Trevélez PGI (Spain)

Abstract This study compares two EU quality-label schemes in Italy and Spain: Prosciutto Veneto Berico Euganeo PDO and Jamón de Trevélez PGI, respectively. It aims to demonstrate that social capital plays an important role in both establishing and managing geographical indications (GIs), and that obtaining this label reinforces existing networks, so boosting rural development. The research is based on semi-structured interviews with 7 key informants, the analysis of institutional information and legislation, and of statistical data on the socioeconomic structure of both geographical areas. The research reveals two quite different experiences in obtaining EU quality labels, regardless of the fact that the products, places and people involved in this process have various aspects in common. This study illustrates how the advantages resulting from these high-quality labels and their impact on rural development can vary in relation to the level of social capital and the strength of local networks.