Yala Province Shifts Strategy to Become a 'GI Metropolis'
Yala is leveraging its unique natural environment to secure Geographical Indication (GI) status for local agricultural products, aiming to boost the regional economy.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, Yala Province is moving beyond its traditional image as Thailand's southernmost border city by rebranding itself as a 'GI Metropolis.' Mayor Pongsak Yingchongcharoen stated that the city is utilizing the Geographical Indication (GI) certification system to transform its unique agricultural assets into a form of cultural soft power.
Local officials emphasize that Yala’s specific climate, mineral-rich soil, and clean water sources create an environment that produces goods impossible to replicate elsewhere. In 2025, the province’s Gross Provincial Product (GPP) reached approximately 17 billion baht, largely driven by rubber and durian. By focusing on GI branding, the city aims to increase the value of its agricultural output.
Key products highlighted in this initiative include the 'Som Chokun Betong' (Betong Mandarin), noted as one of Thailand's most expensive citrus fruits, and the 'Durian Sa-det Nam Yala,' which is grown at high altitudes to achieve a distinct texture and flavor. The province currently hosts nearly 40 varieties of durian, with a curated selection known as the 'Eight Immortals' being promoted to visitors. For residents and travelers, this shift signifies a move toward high-value agricultural tourism. While the strategy is currently being implemented, the long-term impact on the province's overall economic growth and the scalability of these GI products remain to be seen.
