1. A GI is more than a place name
WIPO explains that a GI is a sign used on products with a specific geographical origin and qualities, reputation or characteristics attributable to that origin. It therefore combines three elements: the product, a defined place, and a demonstrable link between that place and the product’s qualities or reputation.
“Grown in...” is useful origin information, but it is not automatically the same as using a registered GI name. Accurate communication should follow the registered designation and applicable conditions. A name or symbol should not imply official recognition when supporting evidence is absent.
2. Origin, GI and traceability answer different questions
Separating these layers helps buyers read evidence accurately and helps brands avoid overclaiming.
- Growing origin: says where the fruit came from, without necessarily establishing a GI specification or usage right.
- GI: identifies a protected name, defined area, origin-linked qualities or reputation, and the relevant control system.
- Traceability: connects a fruit or lot to recorded orchards, dates, packhouses or handling steps.
- Brand: identifies the seller and designed experience; it is not GI evidence on its own.
3. A verifiable example in Thailand’s register
Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property published the registration of “Rayong Monthong Durian”, registration number Sor Chor 67100222, on 20 February 2024. The registration document is the place to check the exact designation, area and key specification details.
The Department also publishes authorised-user lists in separate updates. The page checked for Rayong Monthong Durian includes an update dated 24 June 2026. Being located in an area should therefore not be treated as a substitute for authorised status; buyers and trade partners should check both the registration and the current authorised-user record at the time of a claim.
4. Why GI matters in premium-market building
In DITP’s 24 May 2026 report on The Land of Tropical Fruits campaign, Thai fruit was positioned in premium European and Chinese markets with attention to variety diversity and GI products. The market story extends beyond taste to place, season, producer knowledge and food culture—elements that can be checked and explained.
The opportunity is not to display “GI” as loudly as possible. It is to order the evidence: correct registered name, entitled user, actual production origin, lot records and a sensory description bounded by facts. That turns provenance from advertising language into a reason buyers can understand and trust.
5. Checklist before buying or making a GI claim
Before using GI language on a website, package or sales material, preserve evidence that can be checked again and keep registration-level information separate from lot-level records.
- Verify the exact GI name and registration number in an official publication.
- Check the relevant producer or operator’s status in the applicable authorisation system.
- Confirm that the actual lot connects to the stated production origin and records.
- Do not use a seal, logo or “certified” wording without a documented right.
- Record the verification date because authorised-user lists and status can change.
