The pineapples produced in Madhupur upazila of Tangail have received a recognition as a Geographical Indication (GI) product.
The Geographical Indication Unit of of the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) issued the certificate of recognition on Tuesday signed by Mumin Hasan, director general of Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) of the Ministry of Industries.
Mirza Jubair Hossain, upazila nirbahi officer in Madhupur, said gaining GI recognition for traditional products is crucial for strengthening our position in international trade. The approval of GI status for Madhupur's pineapple is a matter of great joy and pride for the local residents.
The pineapple is already popular across the country, and now the world will become familiar with it, creating a global market for Madhupur's pineapple, said the UNO.
Just as Madhupur is renowned for its red soil, the pineapple from this region is also well-known.
Local residents believe that recognizing Madhupur's traditional and economically significant pineapple as a GI product will enhance the area's international reputation.
This development could lead to qualitative improvements in cultivation and open up export opportunities.
It is known that the first pineapple cultivation in Madhupur was initiated by Mizzi Dayamoyi Sangma, a member of the small ethnic Garo community from Idilpur village. She brought 750 saplings from her relatives' home in Meghalaya, India, and started growing pineapples, which has since expanded to various regions.
Ajay Mri, former president of the Joyenshahi Indigenous Development Council, stated: “The first pineapple cultivation in Madhupur began in Idilpur village, leading to its spread. To preserve this heritage, I advise cultivating pineapples organically.”
A local farmer Shanowar Hossain from Garo Bazar mentioned: “The cultivation and market potential of Madhupur's pineapple were not meeting expectations. The recommendation for GI status has created a hopeful opportunity. The history and heritage of the pineapple have now gained significant recognition both nationally and internationally.”
Shakura Nami, the agricultural officer of Madhupur, explained: “Recognition as a GI product means geographical indication. Pineapples are grown not only in Madhupur but also in Sylhet and various hilly regions. Now, Madhupur's pineapple is recognized both in national and international markets. Efforts to export pineapples internationally are now more promising.”
