Three Indonesian Geographical Indication Products Registered in Europe

JAKARTA: Indonesia's iconic commodities, Muntok White Pepper, Gayo Arabica Coffee, and Amed Bali Salt, have been officially registered as geographical indication (GI) products in Europe. These milestones reflect the government's continuous efforts to encourage local authorities to register and promote geographical indications, whereas Indonesia can boast immense potential in geographical indication (GI) products. According to the Directorate General of Intellectual Property, 155 local GI products have been registered so far. While at the same time, six European GIs, including Champagne, Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, Scotch Whisky, Modena/Di Modena, and Gorgonzola, have been listed in Indonesia, benefiting from reciprocal protection, as mentioned by Mister Yasmon Rangkayosati, the Director of Cooperation and Education at the Directorate General of Intellectual Property.

In addition to their European registration, Muntok White Pepper from Bangka, Gayo Arabica Coffee from Aceh Nanggroe Darussalam, and Amed Bali Salt have also been listed domestically. Each product features distinctive characteristics that set them apart. Muntok White Pepper is recognized for its unique processing methods. It is prepared using both traditional/manual and modern/mechanical techniques. The traditional method involves handpicking the pepper fruits from their stems and sorting them based on size and ripeness. Meanwhile, the modern method employs a threshing machine to detach the pepper fruits, followed by sorting them through an 8mm sieve. Amed Bali Salt is renowned for its high sodium chloride (NaCl) content combine with a balance of certain minerals that specifically originate from the region and make this salt distinctive in taste. Gayo Arabica Coffee has earned its reputation in both domestic and international markets. It is celebrated for its unique taste and aroma, characterized by a complex flavor, mild acidity, and full-bodied richness. Gayo coffee, which features a creamy and bold aroma, comes in two distinct qualities, depending on factors such as environment, variety, and processing methods—ranging from conventional Gayo coffee to specialty Gayo coffee.

Indonesia, known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, holds tremendous potential for expanding its GI products. These commodities not only showcase Indonesia's cultural wealth but also offer the potential to drive economic growth and innovation.

Should you have any queries in relation to GI production, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or [email protected]. (RAA/BDP – su)