Phuket: The Department of Intellectual Property has officially registered the "Phuket Seven-Colored Lobster" as the fourth Geographical Indication (GI) product of the province, alongside the renowned Phuket Pineapple, Phuket Wild Orange, and Phuket Pearls.
According to Thai News Agency, this registration is expected to boost the local economy significantly, with projections of generating over 65 million baht annually.
Ms. Airin Phanrit, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, emphasized the importance of this registration in promoting Phuket's local fishery products to a premium status. The Phuket Seven-Colored Lobster is now recognized as an economically significant product that holds considerable cultural and culinary value, symbolizing Phuket's rich culinary tourism heritage. The registration ensures that the lobster's reputation and origin are protected, further enhancing its market value.
The distinctiveness of the Phuket Seven-Colored Lobster is attributed to its unique geographical environment. The Andaman Sea, with its ideal salinity and constant currents, provides a nutrient-rich habitat for these lobsters. The expertise of local farmers, who raise them in cages and feed them calcium-rich shellfish, contributes to their healthy growth and successful molting. These lobsters, characterized by their large size and vibrant colors-green, orange, blue, purple, pink, cream, and black-are highly sought after for their firm, tender, and sweet meat, which is free of any fishy odor. They are a popular choice for dishes like sashimi, grilled, or baked lobster.
Ms. Airin highlighted the high market potential and consumer demand for Phuket's seven-colored lobster, with an average annual production of 21,670 kilograms and a selling price of up to 3,000 baht per kilogram. This GI registration is a source of pride for the people of Phuket and is expected to elevate local products to international standards, increase their value and credibility, and boost consumer confidence. It is anticipated that this recognition will positively impact the tourism and food industries, providing sustainable income for the fishing communities in the region.