CPRAM Clarifies Holy Basil Registration Amid Public Concern
CPRAM has addressed public concerns regarding the registration of specific holy basil varieties, confirming that traditional strains remain free for public use.
Following recent public debate regarding the registration of holy basil (kaphrao) varieties, CPRAM has issued a clarification to ease concerns among Thai citizens. There has been widespread worry that registering new plant varieties might restrict the ability of farmers and the general public to grow, consume, or sell traditional holy basil.
CPRAM Managing Director Wiset Wisitwinyu stated that the registration of specific new plant varieties does not grant ownership over all types of holy basil. He emphasized that the more than 300 traditional strains currently grown and sold across Thailand remain unaffected and are fully available for public use.
According to CPRAM, the registration process is part of a broader effort to advance agricultural technology, similar to practices in countries like Japan, the United States, and China. The goal of developing new varieties through research and university partnerships is to improve crop yields, disease resistance, and market quality, supporting Thailand’s ambition to be a global food hub.
For residents and travelers, this means that the availability of traditional holy basil in local markets and restaurants remains unchanged. While the company continues to pursue research into new, high-quality strains to boost competitiveness, the status of existing, common varieties is secure. Further details regarding the specific registration of the four new varieties mentioned in the report remain a subject of ongoing public interest.
