In a significant milestone, three distinctive products from Bangladesh – Date Molasses of Jessore, Sweet Betel Leaf of Rajshahi, and Nakshi Kantha of Jamalpur – have recently earned the prestigious Geographical Indicator (GI) status. This achievement brings the total count of GI products owned by Bangladesh to an impressive 31, as highlighted in a press release from the Industries Ministry.
The Geographical Indicator status means that no other country or entity worldwide can lay claim to the authenticity and origin of these products. This legal protection ensures the unique identity and cultural significance of these items.
A Geographical Indicator is a special designation, often a name or symbol, tied to a specific geographical location or source. This could include a country, region, or city where a particular item is produced. The recognition of these three items as GI products not only establishes their authenticity but also highlights their connection to their respective regions – Jessore, Rajshahi, and Jamalpur.
Geographically recognized materials offer assurances of quality standards, specific manufacturing systems, or unique characteristics. The greatest advantage of GI products lies in their global branding, giving them a competitive edge over equivalent products in the international market.
The Department of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (DPDT) plays a crucial role in recognizing and certifying GI products under the Ministry of Industry, adhering to the norms set by the International Property Rights Organization (WIPO). The enactment of the Geographical Indication Products (Registration and Protection) Act in 2013 paved the way for the formal recognition of these distinctive products. Subsequently, in 2015, the DPDT initiated the registration process for GI products, aligning with the guidelines established by the Act. This move strengthens the protection of Bangladesh’s cultural heritage and promotes its unique offerings on the global stage.
