Yala Aims to Become GI Metropolis Boosting Local Produce

Yala, Thailand’s southernmost province, is known for its slogan, “The southernmost of Siam, a beautiful border city.” But beneath its mountains, fresh air and fertile land lies a natural advantage that the municipality hopes will help transform its economy.

Mineral-rich soil, clean air and fresh water are among the factors that Yala City Municipality says give local agricultural products their distinctive flavours and characteristics, setting them apart from produce grown elsewhere.

The municipality is now seeking to harness these natural resources through geographical indication (GI) certification, turning local products into economic soft power, improving farmers’ livelihoods and attracting visitors eager to discover what makes Yala unique.

Its vision is to establish Yala as a “GI metropolis,” a city recognised for the diversity and quality of its geographically distinctive products.

Building ‘Yala GI Metropolis’ through local strengths

Pongsak Yingchoncharoen, mayor of Yala City Municipality, explained that GI products depend on specific local environmental conditions, including suitable temperatures throughout the year, fertile soil and clean water.

He said Yala possesses these natural advantages, which give its agricultural produce distinctive characteristics that cannot easily be replicated elsewhere.

Yala’s gross provincial product (GPP) from agriculture was approximately 17 billion baht in 2025, with rubber and durian accounting for much of the value. Although the figure remains relatively modest compared with neighbouring provinces, the municipality believes GI branding could significantly increase the value of local products.

“GI products have distinctive characteristics that arise from the environment, such as climate, soil and water. Yala has advantages in all these areas, which are our natural assets. Our agricultural products therefore have unique characteristics that nobody can copy. This is real soft power,” Pongsak said.

Among Yala’s most prominent GI fruits is Betong Shogun orange, described by the mayor as the most expensive domestically grown orange in Thailand. It can sell for as much as 160 baht per kilogramme, or nearly 30 baht per fruit, and is known for its naturally aromatic fragrance.

Another signature product is Yala Sadet Nam durian, grown at elevations of at least 300 metres above sea level. Its flesh is characterised by a dry, smooth texture, deep yellow colour, distinctive aroma and rich, balanced flavour.

Other varieties include Kanyao durian and Thorn Black durian, also known as O Chi. Yala has brought together nearly 40 durian varieties and selected eight distinctive types under the name “Eight Durian Masters”. They are:

- Yao Linchi Betong, from Betong district. - Khaimuk Betong, from Betong district. - Thong Labu Yaha, from Yaha district. - Thong Yoi Chat. - Kanyao Krong Pinang, from Krong Pinang district. - Nok Thong. - Nok Pia. - Ban Kero, from Krong Pinang district