Ceylon Cinnamon branded as unique to Sri Lanka

Ceylon Cinnamon has been recognized as a product unique to Sri Lanka through the European Union (EU) approved Geographical Indication (GI) certification. This is the first product that has received the GI certification.

This was announced at an official ceremony held in Colombo between the EU Delegation to Sri Lanka and the Export Development Board (EDB) on Wednesday, a media release issued by the EU stated.

GI protects the name and trademark of a special product identified with a particular region and production practice, and so will differentiate Ceylon Cinnamon from other cinnamons of lower quality and bring a competitive advantage.  

The GI application was made by the EDB and supported by the EU and through technical assistance from UNIDO and the International Trade Centre (ITC).

EU Ambassador Denis Chaibi has stated that in the case of Ceylon Cinnamon “it is an endorsement of quality and an acknowledgement of the long tradition and rich history behind the production of this internationally renowned spice”.

This is expected to enhance Sri Lanka’s competitive position for Ceylon Cinnamon in the EU market and generate increased revenues and more jobs across the cinnamon value chain.

EDB Chairman Suresh De Mel stated that this achievement was perfectly timed as the country is seeking out avenues to generate increase foreign exchange earnings.

Sri Lanka is the world’s largest producer and exporter of cinnamon accounting for 90 per cent of the global market share. Ceylon Cinnamon is considered “pure” and “superior” due to its delicate taste and properties that contribute to many health benefits. (SD)