Geographical Indication Tag for Goan Cashew

Recently, Goan cashews became the 10th product of Goa to receive a Geographical Indication tag. Now, only cashew products grown in the authorised region of Goa can be labelled as Goan cashews, securing the originality of the beloved regional product. 

A geographical indication (GI) is a label or symbol used on products to show they come from a particular place and have specific features. Once a product receives a GI tag, it becomes illegal for producers outside the defined area to sell a similar product with the same name. 

Goan Cashews were first introduced to Goa by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It already has a huge market worldwide, however, with this GI tag, its demands and prices are expected to rise. 

A GI tag is valid for ten years, after which it can be renewed. As of 2023, there are over 400 products from India that have been awarded GI tags. Some of the popular GI-tagged products are Darjeeling Tea, Hyderabadi Haleem, Naga Chilly etc.