Bangkok: 'Sakon Nakhon Indigo Dye' has been officially registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, marking a significant step in enhancing the brand's heritage and economic potential. This registration aims to leverage intellectual property as a tool to add value to Thai goods, fostering local economic growth and increasing income for farmers and entrepreneurs.

According to Thai News Agency, the Director-General of the Department of Intellectual Property, Ms. Oramon Sapthaveetham, emphasized that GI products are crucial for linking the quality and reputation of products to the unique identity of local communities. The "Sakon Nakhon indigo paste," a key ingredient in natural indigo-dyed fabrics, benefits from the region's fertile soil and ideal climate, producing a high-quality paste that is renowned for its deep blue color and long-lasting properties.

Sakon Nakhon boasts 40 indigo producers with an annual production capacity of over 52,350 kilograms, generating a market value of more than 6.9 million baht. The province's traditional knowledge and production methods have earned it the title of "World's Leading Natural Indigo Capital" by the World Crafts Council. This accolade reflects the community's ability to preserve traditional practices while creating economic value and attracting tourists.

The success of registering Sakon Nakhon Indigo Dye as a GI product was achieved through collaboration with local agencies such as the Bio-Economic Development Agency (BEDO). This marks Sakon Nakhon's eighth GI product, contributing to an annual market value of over 498 million baht for the province. Other GI products include Sakon Thawapi fragrant rice, Phon Yang Kham beef, and Isan traditional Thai silk, among others.

The Department of Intellectual Property plans to continue promoting Thai GI products through quality improvement, standardization, and market expansion to attract global recognition. This initiative aims to link GI products with tourism and the creative industries, thereby enhancing community income and quality of life.

For those interested in exploring the production process or supporting Sakon Nakhon's indigo dye products, contact details for local community enterprise groups are available. More information can also be found on Facebook at GI Thailand.