GI Status: Powering Value for Sri Lankan Exports 📈

• Geographical Indications (GIs) are emerging as a powerful tool for Sri Lanka to enhance the value of its agricultural and artisanal heritage, ensuring sustainable rural development and market competitiveness. • Current Progress: This strategic shift is marked by the EU registration of Ceylon Cinnamon and the ongoing GI application for Ceylon Tea. The Ceylon Tea GI project, supported by AFD, recently concluded with an expert conference on the topic. • Key Benefits (SLTB & Experts): • Market Premium: GIs protect origin identity, combat imitation, and position products like Ceylon Tea at a premium in international markets. • Quality Assurance: They help define and enforce quality standards, ensuring full traceability and protection against fraud. • Collective Action: The process fosters inclusive governance and collective action; the Ceylon Tea specification development involved over 500 operators. • Territorial Development: Well-managed GIs can attract investment, boost tourism (e.g., tea tours, spice gardens), and sustain rural livelihoods. • Strategic Path Forward (IPS): Experts recommend streamlining the GI system by: • Establishing a dedicated GI division within the NIPO. • Creating a nationally recognized GI logo for consumer trust. • Forming a GI Council including NIPO, EDB, Tea Board, and producer groups for coordinated policy. • Promoting initiatives like a 'One District, One GI Product' program.