The Fazli mango has been recognised as a geographical indication (GI) product under the name "Rajshahi's Fazli mango". It was published on 6 October in the geographical indication journal of the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks under the Ministry of Industries. The application was made by Dr Alim Uddin, chief scientific officer of the Rajshahi Fruit Research Station. Prothom Alo spoke to him.
What GI status brings
Prothom Alo: What will be gained now that Fazli mango has GI recognition?
Alim Uddin: Branding as a GI product will raise demand for Rajshahi's Fazli mango in the international market. Foreign buyers will buy it with confidence, exporters will benefit, and the country's earnings will grow. Because of GI recognition, the right to produce this mango will now be reserved for the Rajshahi Fruit Research Station, and it will have legal protection. The mango is now Bangladesh's own asset. The Rajshahi Fruit Research Station's right to it has been established in writing.
Prothom Alo: The application for GI recognition was made in 2017. Why did it take so long?
Alim Uddin: After applying, we had to present all kinds of information and data to establish the claim. Historical information on the Fazli mango, DNA sequences and various other data were requested. The recognition came after everything had been checked.
Challenges and response
Prothom Alo: Can another region challenge this recognition?
Alim Uddin: Anyone can challenge it. But the Rajshahi Fruit Research Station is prepared to answer. All the necessary information and data in support have been submitted. No one else can take Rajshahi's Fazli.
Prothom Alo: Have you had any reaction from mango growers?
Alim Uddin: Since the news of GI recognition as Rajshahi's Fazli mango, exporters have started contacting me. This mango is exported from Bagha, and growers there have come to see me. They discussed increasing production and exports of the mango and are now much more interested in it. I believe Rajshahi's Fazli mango will now make a mark around the world.
Source: Prothom Alo. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.
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