The European Commission has granted geographic trademarks to two Thai coffee brands, tying their origins to their unique flavours as is the case for Bordeaux wine and Parma hams.
Under EU consideration since last year, the Geographical Indications for the Doi Tung and Doi Chaang coffee give the brands distinctive symbols that can be used to identify the beverages as originating in the hilltops of Chiang Rai.
Thailand applied for the GI registrations in May 2010. This week's announcement will be open to public comment for six months. If there is no objection, the two brands will be able to use the EU's GI mark on in their marketing starting Aug 3, according to Commerce Minister Chatchai Sarikulya.
Gen Chatchai said consumers in the EU pay much attention to products with the GI mark, as it reflects uniqueness and quality, allowing sellers to charge higher prices.
The two coffee brands are the second and third products from Thailand to receive the GI mark, the first being Hom Mali rice from Thung Kula Rong Hai, which is a fragrant grain produced in the Northeast.
Doi Tung coffee is produced from coffee trees grown by the Doi Tung Development Project about 800-1,200 metres above sea level in Chiang Rai.
Doi Chaang coffee is produced from trees grown in a valley about 1,000-1,200 metres above sea level in Doi Chang village of tambon Vavee in the Mae Suai district of Chiang Rai.