International promotion for Dan Kwian pottery

NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Aug 21 (TNA) -- The Commerce Ministry is proceeding with a geographical indication (GI) for Dan Kwian pottery to boost its marketing and the income of local producers. While inspecting Dan Kwian pottery production in Dan Kwian sub-district of Chok Chai district, Commerce Minister Apiradi Tantraporn said the unique Dan Kwian pottery deserved a GI because it was made from clay along the banks of the Mun River, which contained iron and other ores and resulted in durable pottery with a unique color. According to the minister, the Intellectual Property Department plans to have a GI for Dan Kwian pottery within next year and it would be the third product of Nakhon Ratchasima to have a GI in addition to Isan silk and Dong Mafai coffee. Dan Kwian pottery generates hundreds of millions of baht a year for 80% of local residents, Ms Apiradi said. Her delegation met Dan Kwian pottery producers and informed them of the process and benefits of GI registration. “In the trip, I ordered concerned officials to accelerate the GI registration to increase product values. We are also organising training to help local producers effectively manage their business, cut costs and increase marketing channels locally and globally. The development will promote the Dan Kwian product identity, local lifestyles and income generation through the sales of products and tourist services,” Ms Apiradi said. (TNA)