GI certifications expected for three Thai products exported to China
THE COMMERCE Ministry is expecting Geographical Indication (GI) certification for three products it exports to China, hoping this will protect them from infringement.
The three products are Hom Mali Thung Kula Rong Hai Rice, Tub Tim Siam Pomelo, and Phetchabun Sweet Tamarind.
Nuntawan Sakuntanaga, director-general of the Intellectual Property Department, said these products were very popular with Chinese consumers. The GI recognition would make consumers more aware of Thai products and enable them to become more competitive.
GI is a name or sign used on certain products that corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin, such as a town, province, region or country.
The use of GI could act as a certification that the product possesses certain qualities, is made according to traditional methods or enjoys a certain reputation due to its geographical origin.
Thailand will also apply for GI certification for Isaan silk fabric in Vietnam.
So far, 63 Thai products have received GI certification. Thailand has also provided GI certification to 11 foreign products selling in local market.
Four products from Thailand have received GI certification in the European Union. They are Hom Mali Thung Kula Rong Hai Rice, Sung Yod Rice from Phatthalung province, and Doi Chang and Doi Tung coffee from Thailand’s upper North.
To improve the recognition of GI products in local markets, the department will cooperate with the Tourism Authority of Thailand to promote the products along with tourist attractions.
The goal is to increase sales of GI products and stimulate local-community incomes.
