Bursa's black figs have been granted geographical indication status by the European Union. This development was shared by Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli, highlighting the black fig's addition to the list of EU-certified Turkish products, including Gemlik olives and Bursa peaches. "Bursa's black figs, following the Gemlik olive and Bursa peach, have now been certified by the EU. This raises our number of EU-registered products to 26," Yumakli stated on social media.
The geographical indication status not only enhances the international profile of Bursa's black figs but also contributes to Türkiye's efforts in safeguarding its agricultural heritage in the global market. The black figs, crucial for the country's agricultural exports, account for nearly 10% of Türkiye's fig production. A significant portion, over 65%, is exported to countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Malaysia, bolstering the local economy.
These figs are distinguished by their size, color, and a unique cultivation method known as ilekleme, performed manually by local farmers. This traditional pollination technique, along with the region's specific soil and climate conditions, results in figs that are larger, darker, and sweeter than those from other regions. The EU certification, following a national geographical indication in 2018, mandates that only figs produced under these conditions in Bursa can be labeled as "Bursa siyah inciri".
Strict guidelines are in place for local farmers to ensure the quality of these figs, including the requirement to display the geographical indication emblem and product logo on packaging. "EU registration guarantees that these products meet specific standards, safeguarding their authenticity and quality for international consumers," emphasized Yumakli. The figs are not only sought after for their taste but also for their nutritional value, being rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein.
With this latest EU certification, Bursa's black figs join a growing list of internationally recognized Turkish agricultural products. Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir noted the increasing number of EU-certified products from Türkiye, stating, "With the addition of Bursa's black figs, our number of EU-certified geographical indication products has reached 26. We have 61 more applications in progress, and four of them are already in the announcement phase." This certification assures consumers of the figs' origin and production standards, further increasing their demand on the international stage.
Source: Turkiye Today