Introduction to Geographical Indications and labels

   Currently countries from all over the world are promoting Geographical Indications. With geographical indications it is possible to know where the product is from and know about its unique natural habitat, civilization, producing environments and technology. In addition to weather, soil conditions, and traditional ways of producing, this gives the product its uniqueness and flavor. Not only is this a high quality guarantee for consumers, but it can also help keep the competitive advantage of the product that the country of origin holds.

   In recent years, different tea areas in Taiwan have developed its own unique flavor, like the WenShan pouchong tea, Dong Ding Oolong Tea, Ali mountain high mountain tea and Sun Moon Lake black tea. Applying Geographical Indications through the certificate of origins, production quality have grown as well as product value in marketing. Consumers’rights are protected this way and it can also raise our international goodwill in producing tea in international trades.

   Each certification unit has made strict terms towards issuing labels. Issuing related procedures are as of below:

1. Confirming domestic production and origin: Tea applicants have to provide related proof of domestic production. The certification unit will then perform inspections on site towards the number of teas in its area requested for labeling, cross checking with the paper work admitted, ensuring its legitimacy.
2. Confirming tea sanitation and safety: The amount of pesticide residues for tea applicants have to meet national standards.
3. Confirming the quality of tea: The certification unit forms a special quality inspection unit and performs sensory evaluation of the tea’s taste, aroma, liquor color, and infused tea leaves. Tea applicants must meet local quality standards in order to attain the label.
4. Confirming the safe keeping of labels: The confirmation unit performs quality control for its labels ensuring the credibility of the label.

   After issuing the certificate of origin label, the unit will perform spontaneous checkups towards the quality of the tea and serial number on the labels. Consumers can find out more information in authenticating products by entering the serial number on its labels assuring ones rights.