OTOP and GI

          One Tambon One Product (OTOP) and Geographical Indication (GI) are still frequently confused as being the same thing, but in actuality, these two types are distinct and originate from local community products.

           OTOP is a product from the concept of one tambon one product that is a local product or a product, service, play, folk performance that may represent Thai wisdom but does not have to be uniquely linked to geographical origin. There is no legal product name protection registration. There is no boundary of the production area. The use of the brand has its own criteria for selection. Each manufacturer is independent.

           OTOP products are considered projects that aim for people in the community to use local wisdom to develop and create products and services to generate income for themselves, their families, and the community. The government supports knowledge, technology, product development, as well as finding markets both domestically and internationally.

           GI must be a product only and a product of quality, reputation, uniqueness that is linked to the geographical source and local wisdom. There is a registration system to protect the product’s name by law. It must be produced in a clearly defined area only, cannot be produced outside the area.

          Before being given the certification logo, GI products must be registered with the Department of Intellectual Property, Ministry of Commerce, and verified in accordance with the specifications or criteria according to a clear quality control system. The manufacturer also needs to be a member of the community and work cooperatively with the community as a whole because it is a community right.

          Therefore, GI products in terms of manufacturers are regarded as raising the level of product quality and confidence in local products, increasing the opportunity to expand both domestic and international markets.

Source: Department of Intellectual Property
Tel: 1368