Yala: The Department of Intellectual Property announced the registration of “Mangosteen in the Betong Mist” as a new GI product in Yala Province. The quality mangosteen is guaranteed by the winning prize in the provincial-level outstanding large-scale plantation competition, generating over 62 million baht in revenue.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Napintorn Srisanpang, Deputy Minister of Commerce, revealed that the Ministry of Commerce has assigned the Department of Intellectual Property to drive the grassroots economy to be strong and distribute income to communities sustainably. The focus is on raising the competitiveness of the agricultural sector through the registration of Geographic Indications (GI) to protect products unique to each locality, create added value, and control product quality to build consumer confidence. Recently, the Department of Intellectual Property announced the registration of ‘Mangosteen in the Betong Mist’ as the 4th GI product of Yala Province, following the Bannang Sata Banana, Yala Sadet Nam Durian, and Betong Shogun Orange.
‘Mangosteen in Betong Mist’ is a native variety known for its round and large fruit, with a rather thick peel, shiny skin, and a reddish-purple color. When fully ripe, the fruit turns black, with green stalk and sepals. The flesh is white, fluffy, and cottony, lacking a glassy and latex-like texture. It is grown in Betong and Than To districts, Yala Province, characterized by highlands and alternating river channels. The Pattani River, a major river flowing from the south to the north, enhances the agricultural suitability of these districts. The unique climate, featuring fog in the morning, sunshine at noon, and frequent rain in the evening, results in mangosteen of superior quality and distinctiveness, earning consumer trust and recognition as “Mangosteen in the Betong Mist.”
The group of farmers responsible for this product won the championship in the 2021 provincial-level outstanding large-scale plantation competition in Yala Province. Their ability to maintain quality and traceable production processes has led to widespread consumer acceptance and export success, generating over 62 million baht in revenue.
Currently, Thailand boasts GI-registered products by the Department of Intellectual Property across all 77 provinces. This initiative enhances the value of local products, boosts community income, and strengthens Thailand’s grassroots economy sustainably. The Department of Intellectual Property encourages public engagement and support for GI product entrepreneurs through their Facebook Page: GI Thailand or by calling the hotline 1368.