The Deputy Government Spokesperson revealed that "Ratchaburi Aromatic Coconut" has been registered as a GI in the European Union, becoming the fifth product after fragrant rice.Thung KulaThis helps open the door for Thai agricultural products to premium markets in 27 countries.
On 21 February 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Lalida Pertvivattana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Department of Intellectual Property shared good news that Thailand's "Ratchaburi Aromatic Coconut" has been officially registered as a Geographical Indication (GI) inthe European Union.This marks an important step in elevating Thai agricultural products to the international stage, boosting foreign consumer confidence, opening trade opportunities in 27 member countries, and strengthening Thai products' competitiveness in premium markets in a tangible way.
The Deputy Spokesperson stated that the Department of Intellectual Property is driving grassroots economic growth by promoting GI products alongside establishing quality control systems and supporting both online and offline market channels. They are also accelerating efforts to register promising Thai GI products abroad to add value and raise quality standards to gain international recognition.
On 18 February 2026 GMT+7, the European Union announced the registration of "Ratchaburi Aromatic Coconut" after Thailand submitted the application in 2023. The EU is a key export market for this coconut variety, with annual export values averaging over 300 million baht. GI protection helps prevent name misuse, builds importer confidence, and expands trade opportunities to member countries including the Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Italy, France, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Ireland, and Denmark. It also enhances Thailand's reputation for high-quality agricultural products and supports sustainable local community income and employment.
This registration makes "Ratchaburi Aromatic Coconut" the first GI product from Ratchaburi province to be internationally protected and the fifth Thai GI to be registered in the European Union, following Thung Kula Rong Hai fragrant rice, Sangyod rice from Phatthalung, Doi Tung coffee, and Doi Chang coffee. Production areas cover seven districts: Mueang Ratchaburi, Damnoen Saduak, Wat Phleng, Ban Pong, Bang Phae, Pak Tho, and Photharam. The region's geography and soil create distinctive coconuts with sweet, pandan-like aroma, thick tender flesh, and year-round yields.
Data from 2025 shows Ratchaburi produced about 550 million aromatic coconuts, with domestic sales valued at 276 million baht and global exports worth over 5.244 billion baht, clearly demonstrating the potential of Thai agricultural products in the global market.
The Deputy Spokesperson added that Thailand currently has 11 GI products registered internationally, covering 33 countries. The government will continue to promote Thai GI products, especially food and agricultural goods, which are key Soft Power assets, to enhance competitiveness, create new trade opportunities, and raise long-term incomes for farmers and local entrepreneurs.
