Small-Scale Producers Of Quality Products With Potential Of Geographical Indication Protection In Tanzania

Geographical Indication (GI) adds value through product differentiation based on quality, protection of consumers through provision of certified information regarding product attributes and enhances and preserves the identity and cultural heritage of people in the region where a product is produced. Studies on potential GI products in Tanzania are yet to (be done) to show how producers may capture above mentioned benefits. This study analyses quality traits, factors and conditions with potential to increase value of Agricultural products in Tanzania through GI protection. The hypothesis is that origin products exist in Tanzania whose unique characteristics are linked to rather well-defined geographical areas of production. Three Tanzanian origin products were studied, and investigated as product cases: Rice from Kyela, Coffee from Kilimanjaro and Cloves from Zanzibar. Quantitative and qualitative case study analyses were done for each of the three selected Tanzanian origin products with plausible prospects for Tanzania to leapfrog into exports of Geographical Indications products. Findings shows the institutional structure of a country and how it may facilitate GI protection, the producer’s perception of being a member of a cooperatives in marketing their products, producer’s awareness of GI and the quality traits of their unique products. Finally, the paper provides policy options identifying opportunities for government in recognising unique origin products - whether agricultural or non-agricultural and the importance of potential GI´s to producers and exports options for the country.