Phuket –
Phuket has added another jewel to its crown of local treasures with the official registration of the “Phuket Seven-Colored Lobster” as a Geographical Indication (GI) product. The announcement was made by Mrs. Oramon Sapthaweetham, Director-General of the Department of Intellectual Property, marking a milestone in elevating Phuket’s seafood heritage to national recognition.
The GI certification affirms that the Phuket Seven-Colored Lobster is a product uniquely tied to its place of origin. Known for its striking rainbow-like shell and premium quality meat, the lobster cannot be authentically replicated outside Phuket’s waters. This recognition not only safeguards the product’s identity but also assures consumers of its provenance and excellence.
For local fishermen and seafood businesses, the GI status translates into tangible benefits. With higher consumer confidence and stronger branding, the lobster’s market value is expected to rise, generating increased income for coastal communities. The certification also opens doors for premium positioning in restaurants, hotels, and resorts, reinforcing Phuket’s reputation as a destination for world-class cuisine.
Beyond economics, the GI registration strengthens Phuket’s cultural and tourism appeal. The Seven-Colored Lobster is poised to become a culinary icon, drawing both Thai and international visitors eager to taste seafood directly from its source. As part of Thailand’s growing emphasis on gastronomy tourism, the lobster embodies “soft power” through food, an authentic local delicacy that enhances Phuket’s global image as a vibrant, distinctive travel destination.
For Phuket residents, the recognition is a source of pride, affirming the island’s unique natural resources and culinary traditions. It also shows the importance of sustainable marine management to preserve this rare species for future generations.
The GI registration of the Phuket Seven-Colored Lobster is is a celebration of heritage, community, and the island’s enduring role as a world-class tourism hub.
