The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, in collaboration with stakeholder institutions, has successfully secured a geographical indication registration from the European Union (EU) for the Hüyük strawberry. This achievement elevates the total number of Turkish products recognized by the EU to 25.
İbrahim Yumaklı, the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, celebrated the Hüyük strawberry as the 25th Turkish product to be granted this status by the EU. He highlighted the recent trend of Turkish flavors gaining EU registration and noted that there are currently 5 products awaiting EU geographical indication registration and another 57 preparing to apply.
Yumaklı emphasized Turkey's rich agricultural potential and its prominent global position, asserting the importance of protecting and enhancing the nation's agricultural wealth. He stated, "Registration of geographical indications in the European Union increases the brand value of these products in the European market. This supports rural development and contributes greatly to the local economy. Registered products are protected from counterfeiting, creating a secure market environment and offering quality products to consumers."
Additionally, Yumaklı mentioned the Ministry's support for agriculture, including a new support model for plant production and animal husbandry. He expressed gratitude to those involved in achieving the EU registration for the Hüyük strawberry, marking Konya's first product to receive such recognition.
Geographical indication
Geographical indication signifies a product's unique connection to its place of origin, encompassing distinctive features, reputation, or other characteristics. Turkey has 1632 products registered under geographical indication and traditional product name, with approximately 90 percent related to agricultural and food products. For EU-wide protection, applications must be submitted to the European Commission as per the regulation dated April 2024.
The list of 25 EU-registered Turkish products includes Antep Baklava, Aydın Fig, and Malatya Apricot, among others, showcasing the diversity and richness of Turkey's agricultural offerings.
Source: Railly News