Thailand is set to register three additional geographical indication (GI) products in Japan within the current year, as announced by the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP).

Nusara Kanjanakul, the director-general of the DIP, reported that applications for the registration will be submitted in the second quarter of 2025. The products slated for registration include Hom Thong Bua Daeng banana, Nam Dok Mai Si Thong Phitsanulok mango, and Phetchabun sweet tamarind Lamphun.

This initiative follows Thailand's previous success in securing GI registrations for Doi Tung coffee, Doi Chaang coffee, and Huaymon pineapple in Japan.

The drive to register these new products underscores Thailand's strategic approach to bolster community-driven economic growth and enhance the nation's soft power through the promotion of its distinct agricultural heritage.

With a diverse assortment of local goods, Thailand aims to leverage its rich biodiversity, geographical advantages, and traditional knowledge to increase the value and marketability of these products.

Currently, Thailand has secured nine GI product registrations globally, which include Thung Kula Rong Hai hom mali rice, Sangyod Muang Phatthalung rice, indigenous Isan silk yarn, Lamphun brocade silk, and others, recognized in more than 33 countries including the EU, Vietnam, Malaysia, and India.

According to Ms. Nusara, Thailand boasts a total of 227 GI registrations that collectively generate over 77 billion baht per annum.

The DIP is actively working to broaden the distribution of Thai GI products both domestically and internationally, utilizing major retail channels and online platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, and Born Thailand.

The department has plans to showcase these GI products at the GI Pavilion during notable upcoming events, including Thaifex-Anuga Asia 2025 in May and the Thailand Coffee Fest 2025 in July.

Efforts are underway to enhance packaging design to better meet market demands and improve product value.

In addition, GI products are increasingly being incorporated into the menus of Michelin-starred restaurants and premium dining establishments.

There are also initiatives underway to develop tourism in regions where GI products are produced.

For 2025, the DIP plans to register a total of 22 new GI products from 18 provinces.

This expansion encompasses a diverse range of items, including 14 plant-based products, three from fisheries, two food products, two textiles and handicrafts, and one wine or liquor product.

This move is anticipated to add an estimated 5.8 billion baht in economic value.

Currently, there are 184 GI products with over 15,000 producers authorized to apply the Thai GI label.

The DIP has also introduced the GI Smarttrace system, a digital traceability solution aimed specifically at enhancing the transparency and authenticity of GI products.