BANGKOK, Thailand – Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries has officially registered Huai Mun Pineapple as a Geographical Indication (GI) product, making it the first Thai fruit to achieve this recognition in Japan, following Doi Chang Coffee and Doi Tung Coffee. Renowned for its honey-colored flesh, soft texture, and sweet aroma, Huai Mun Pineapple is highly favored by consumers, with its nutritional value adding to its popularity in Japan.
Thailand’s Huai Mun Pineapple industry consists of 850 producers, with an annual production capacity of 180,000 tons, generating a market value of 1.2 billion baht. Under the Thailand-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA), trade privileges such as tariff reductions have boosted Thailand’s standing in Japan’s pineapple market. With limited domestic cultivation, Japan relies heavily on imports, and Thailand is now its fourth-largest supplier after the Philippines, Costa Rica, and Indonesia.
Geographical Indication certification has elevated the reputation and marketability of Thailand’s agricultural exports. By 2024, Thailand had registered 205 GI products, including eight with international recognition, generating an annual market value exceeding 71 billion baht.
Major Thai GI exports, including Rayong’s Monthong durian and Ratchaburi’s aromatic coconut, contribute significantly to the agricultural economy. (NNT)
