Intellectual Property Department Registers GI for 'Ban Wang Som Sa Phitsanulok' to Elevate High-Value Agriculture
Thailand's Intellectual Property Department has registered a Geographical Indication for 'Ban Wang Som Sa Phitsanulok,' a distinctive citrus fruit from Phitsanulok Province valued for its unique tangy-sweet flavor and use in traditional dis
The Intellectual Property Department has registered a Geographical Indication (GI) for 'Ban Wang Som Sa Phitsanulok,' a renowned local citrus fruit grown in Muang District, Phitsanulok Province. According to Department Director Oramon Saptaweedharm, this distinctive fruit features a round, firm shape with thick dark-green bumpy skin resembling pomelos, aromatic fragrance, and a unique tangy-sweet taste with a lingering citrus note on the tongue. Its distinctive flavor sets it apart from other citrus varieties, making it popular in traditional Thai dishes like mah hor (a savory rice cracker appetizer), as well as in desserts, beverages, and numerous health and beauty products including soaps, face creams, lip gloss, shampoos, herbal inhalants, and air fresheners.
Currently, Ban Wang Som Sa Phitsanulok produces approximately 120,000 kilograms annually, generating over 3.6 million baht in economic value for the community. The fruit's history traces back over a century when Hainanese Chinese migrants planted som sa along the Nan River, eventually establishing the community known as Ban Wang Som Sa. Residents continue to preserve their heritage through the Mae Tab Thim shrine and the annual Loy Krathong festival in May, using som sa fruit as ritual offerings to the sea goddess.
Director Oramon stated that the GI registration will differentiate Thai produce, establish production standards, prevent counterfeit products, and build consumer trust while supporting the community's reputation. Following registration, the department will assist the community through quality control systems, packaging development, marketing education, market channel expansion both online and offline, and agritourism development. These initiatives aim to help producers create added value, attract tourists to experience the authentic community and production processes, and support continuous economic growth. Interested buyers can purchase Ban Wang Som Sa Phitsanulok GI products through the Facebook page 'Ban Wang Som Sa' and TikTok account 'Wang Som Sa.'
