Geographical indications in Brazil: Manzanilla de Mandirituba and Cachaça de Paraty
In January 2024, through its National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI), Brazil recognised two new geographical indications (GIs) that highlight the richness of its agricultural heritage. In Mandirituba – a municipality in the state of Paraná – dehydrated camomile obtained the first GI registration of 2024. This recognised indication of origin joins 110 other GIs across the country. Mandirituba is responsible for 30 % of Paraná’s camomile production, as well as driving innovation with broad applications in the food and cosmetics industries. This GI’s recognition highlights the successful transition to mechanised methods without losing the essence and knowledge of local farmers, celebrating the municipality’s unique soil and climate conditions.
Mandirituba camomile, which has been in production since 1998, has evolved significantly. Manual techniques have given way to machinery without sacrificing tradition. Tourism flourishes during the flowering season, contributing to the local economy and consolidating Mandirituba as the ‘camomile capital of Paraná’. This recognition also inspired a musical composition that highlights the camomile flower and was officially recognised by State Law 21.126/2022.
On the other hand, Paraty cachaça is undergoing a change in its GI registration from indication of origin to denomination of origin. Although the INPI maintains the 120 registered GIs, there are now 85 indications of origin and 35 designations of origin. This change highlights Paraty’s unique characteristics, from its topography to its high rainfall and temperatures, which influence the distinctive quality of the sugar cane. Human factors, such as the knowledge transferred through generations and manual cultivation and slow distillation methods, contribute to the sensory uniqueness of Paraty’s cachaça.
In line with the region’s GI promotion, in March 2024, IP Key Latin America will promote the ‘GI Seminar for Mercosur’. This hybrid activity will be held in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, and will bring together authorities, stakeholders and producers from Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. The aim is to boost economic opportunities and local development through protecting GIs. The seminar not only supports the implementation of GI-related provisions, but also highlights the benefits for all citizens by promoting market access and preserving cultural heritage.