Gujarat has added two more agricultural products to its growing list of Geographical Indication (GI)-certified commodities, with Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel receiving GI tags from the Government of India’s GI Registry.
The recognition grants the North Gujarat spices a protected geographical identity, reinforcing their authenticity while enhancing their brand value in domestic and international markets. The move is expected to strengthen export prospects, improve price realisation for farmers and increase the global visibility of Gujarat’s spice industry.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the recognition aligns with the Centre’s “Vocal for Local” and “Local to Global” vision by giving traditional agricultural products stronger access to global markets. He described the GI certification as recognition of the quality, heritage and efforts of the region’s farmers and traders.
A GI tag is awarded to products whose quality, reputation or characteristics are intrinsically linked to a specific geographical region. Issued under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, the certification protects the product’s identity, preserves quality standards and helps prevent counterfeit products from entering the market.
Industry experts believe the certification could significantly enhance the commercial value of both spices. GI-tagged products often command a premium of 20% to 30% over comparable non-certified products, creating opportunities for higher farmer incomes, greater value addition and stronger export demand.
The certification was achieved through collaboration between the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), Unjha, the Department of Horticulture and Farmers’ Welfare, Government of Gujarat, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU), the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and the Government of India.
Dinesh Patel, Chairman of Unjha APMC, said the GI recognition marks a significant milestone for the region’s spice trade and is expected to improve the authenticity, credibility and international acceptance of both products while opening new opportunities in export markets.
With the addition of Unjha Cumin and Unjha Fennel, Gujarat has further expanded its portfolio of GI-certified agricultural products, joining well-known products such as Gir Kesar mango, Bhalia wheat, Kachchhi Kharek and Amalsadi Chikoo.
The latest recognition is expected to strengthen Gujarat’s position as a leading producer of premium agricultural commodities while providing farmers with greater market differentiation and improved access to global buyers.