The Tien Phuoc Commune People’s Committee, central Da Nang city, on May 25 held a ceremony to announce and receive the Geographical Indication (GI) protection certificate for “Tien Phuoc” pepper.
Tien Phuoc pepper has long been renowned for its intense aroma, characteristic pungency, and premium quality. According to the GI description, the product is classified into three main types: green, black, and white. Specifically, Tien Phuoc black pepper contains a piperine content of 6.82% – 7.17% and volatile essential oil content of 2.47% – 2.67%. Meanwhile, its white pepper variety boasts a piperine content of 7.32% – 7.44%, creating a distinct sharp heat that is easily distinguishable from pepper grown in other regions.
Scientists have determined that the unique quality of Tien Phuoc pepper is the result of a special combination of endemic natural conditions and traditional farming practices passed down by local residents.
Beyond its physical quality, Tien Phuoc pepper carries deep historical and cultural significance. Since the early 17th century, pepper was one of the vital trade commodities in the Southern Realm of Vietnam through the Hoi An commercial port. Numerous historical documents by domestic and international scholars recognize Tien Phuoc pepper as a precious specialty with a long-standing reputation. In local folklore, the pepper plant is closely intertwined with the lives of the people, appearing in traditional folk songs that reflect the daily activities and collective memory of the community across generations.
The protection of the “Tien Phuoc” Geographical Indication is a crucial step in establishing a legal framework to safeguard the product's reputation, quality, and origin. It creates favorable conditions for organized management, quality control, traceability, and market development. This serves as a foundation for building a sustainable value chain, increasing added value, and enhancing competitiveness. Furthermore, it acts as a catalyst for farmers to boost production, improve quality, and expand commercial scale.
To date, Vietnam has 154 protected Geographical Indications associated with famous brands such as Buon Ma Thuot coffee, Phu Quoc fish sauce, Tan Cuong tea, Luc Ngan lychee, and Binh Thuan dragon fruit. Currently, Da Nang City holds five GIs for local specialties: Ngoc Linh ginseng, Tra My cinnamon, Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An bird’s nest, Nam O fish sauce, and Tien Phuoc pepper.
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