PGI protection for Ceylon Cinnamon- true benefits could obtain as a country.

It is a historical significance, that Sri Lanka received its first ever Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) certification when the European Union (EU) Commission on 02nd February 2022 granted PGI status to Ceylon Cinnamon.

Protected Geographical Indication (GI) is the identification of value chain, quality and combination of a trademark and a certificate of authenticity. In this way, one could identify your product with a region that is esteemed for quality or craft and imply that it is made according to the traditional knowledge of its inhabitants. PGI is a local and national pride; If standards of production are attached to a particular PGI, the label may also function like a certificate like those issued to organic foods.

PGI registration has the purpose to differentiate Ceylon Cinnamon in the EU market from its substitutes of lower quality other cinnamon products. PGI will act as a source of competitive advantage which will help to increase market differentiation, product turnover and allow for a premium price from the consumer.

The registered holder of the Ceylon Cinnamon PGI tag, has all the legal rights to prevent anyone not belonging to the PGI region from using their PGI tags. Sri Lanka can also initiate legal proceedings against the unauthorized user to save their reputation from being damaged by labelling any other cinnamon in particular Cassia.

The prime purpose of registering PGI for Ceylon Cinnamon is to seek protection for specific Ceylon Cinnamon produced in Sri Lanka, which further encourages and motivates the producers and traders to expand their business at a global level. Furthermore, the protection of geographical indications boosts exports and helps the producers in increasing earnings for themselves.

People around the world notice various PGI products from different regions and get motivated to visit Sri Lanka and use our products. Therefore, it helps in the growth of the tourism industry.

Today, with the emphasis on climate change and sustainability, Cinnamon can be ready revenue generator. A modern distribution system, global e-commerce are backbone which can propel the PGI onto the world stage.

GI protection is much beneficial for local communities by way of preservation of biodiversity, local know-how and natural resources where Sri Lanka can do well.

The protection of geographical indications leads to the overall economic prosperity of the manufacturers and producers of Ceylon Cinnamon. Furthermore, the marketing and promotion of the Cinnamon with the PGI tags enhance the secondary economic activities in that specific region, which in turn boosts the regional economic development. Last but not least, the protection of geographical indication for cinnamon creates a positive image and reputation of Ceylon Cinnamon, in the minds of the consumers and rewards the producers with incentives.