Uthai thani: The Department of Intellectual Property is actively monitoring the production of the Geographical Indication (GI) product "Sakae Krang River Basin Rhinoceros Fish of Uthai Thani" to enhance product standards and expand it into premium and modern markets. This initiative aims to create added value and sustainable income for the local community.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Oramon Sapthaveetham, Director-General of the Department of Intellectual Property, alongside the Uthai Thani Provincial Commerce Office, visited the community enterprise group processing Siamese fighting fish in Tha Sung Subdistrict, Mueang District. 'Sakae Krang River Basin Siamese Fighting Fish of Uthai Thani' is the province's sole GI product, reflecting the local identity with its unique features such as thick scales, firm and tender flesh, sweet taste, and absence of muddy or fishy odors. These attributes are credited to the clear, mineral-rich waters of the Sakae Krang River basin and traditional fish-raising techniques.
Currently, over 119 producers in the area maintain quality control systems and effectively utilize the GI mark, with a production capacity exceeding 940,000 kilograms annually. Post-GI registration, the selling price saw a substantial rise from an average of 70 baht per kilogram to 100-120 baht per kilogram, highlighting the GI's role in adding value to agricultural products and boosting community income.
The monitoring efforts concentrated on assessing the quality control system of these GI products, essential for maintaining standards. The community enterprise group showcased their cage farming process, covering breeding, feeding, environmental management, marketing, and traceability to ensure compliance with quality specifications.
Ms. Wanpen Nathong, president of the Tha Sung Subdistrict Community Enterprise Group for Processing Rhinoceros Fish, emphasized that cage farming allows better control over the quality and quantity of production compared to past practices of wild fishing. The quality control system enhances consumer confidence and creates opportunities for the product in premium markets, quality restaurants, and modern distribution channels.
Local entrepreneurs have systematically formed groups to manage product development, enabling cost management, production planning, and increased market bargaining power. This has led to the creation of various processed products under the "Raed Tua Mae" brand, including sun-dried rhinoceros fish, instant fermented fish, and health products like gelatin and collagen from rhinoceros fish. Collaborations with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) aim to ensure these products meet standards and build consumer trust.
The Department of Intellectual Property remains committed to supporting GI entrepreneurs by developing suitable packaging, promoting online marketing, creating product storytelling, and facilitating access to domestic and international trade arenas to expand market opportunities and ensure long-term sustainability.