FAO Nepal Drives GI Training: Safeguarding Unique Agri-Food Products & Heritage
31st July 2025, Kathmandu
In a significant move to preserve and promote Nepal’s distinct agri-food products and invaluable traditional knowledge, FAO Nepal, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoALD) and the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies (MoICS), successfully concluded a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) on Geographical Indications (GIs).
FAO Drives GI Training
This landmark initiative represents a crucial step forward in establishing a robust system for safeguarding the unique identity of Nepali products.
The comprehensive training program brought together a diverse group of participants from key government bodies and the private sector. The sessions were meticulously designed to cover all essential aspects of GI systems, providing in-depth knowledge and practical skills.
Key Focus Areas of the GI Training
Participants delved into critical components necessary for effective GI implementation, including:
Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Understanding the necessary laws and organizational structures to support GI registration and enforcement.
Product Specifications: Defining the unique characteristics and qualities that differentiate a GI product.
Documentation: Learning the rigorous processes required to document a product’s origin, traditional methods, and specific attributes.
Codes of Practice: Establishing standards for production, processing, and quality control.
Traceability and Certification: Ensuring the authenticity and origin of GI products from farm to consumer.
Control Mechanisms: Implementing systems to monitor compliance and prevent misuse of GI names.
Building National Capacity for GI Growth
A primary objective of this ToT was to cultivate a dedicated network of national facilitators and technical focal points across Nepal. These trained individuals will be instrumental in driving the crucial process of GI registration, providing essential support to local producer groups, and significantly enhancing cross-sector awareness regarding the benefits and importance of GIs.
The initiative also strongly emphasized fostering enhanced inter-agency coordination. By encouraging seamless collaboration between various government entities and private stakeholders, the training aims to lay the groundwork for a robust GI governance system in Nepal. This approach is designed to boost both the technical expertise and institutional capacities required for successful GI implementation nationwide.
GIs: A Catalyst for Rural Development and Cultural Preservation
By strengthening technical and institutional capacities in Geographical Indications, this collaborative effort by FAO Nepal and the ministries is set to yield multiple benefits for the nation. It will directly contribute to:
Rural Development: Empowering local communities and creating new economic opportunities in rural areas through the recognition and premium pricing of unique products.
Market Differentiation: Enabling Nepali products to stand out in both domestic and international markets, commanding higher value due to their proven origin and quality.
Preservation of Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage: Protecting indigenous knowledge, traditional farming practices, and the unique biodiversity associated with specific regional products.
This successful ToT marks a pivotal moment for Nepal, paving the way for its distinctive agri-food products to gain well-deserved recognition and protection on a global scale, thereby enriching the nation’s economy and preserving its rich cultural tapestry.
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