Preserving the Cultural Heritage: The Significance of Protecting Basmati Rice as a GI Product for Pakistan and India in International Trade

الملخص

Basmati rice has historical, cultural, and economic significance for Pakistan and India due to its distinct long-grain quality, flavor, and aroma. It holds a colossal value in international trade, and because of its uniqueness, it is globally recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) product. It is geographically exclusive to both Pakistan and India. Unfortunately, Basmati rice in Pakistan was registered in 2021. With the growth of international trade, enforcement of regulations to protect GIs is also becoming increasingly complex. This paper, therefore, compares the international instruments and the legal frameworks of Pakistan, India and European Union (EU) concerning the conservation of GIs, especially relating the preservation of Basmati rice. It also analyzes the cultural and economic importance of Basmati rice for both Pakistan and India by highlighting the need to protect this valuable commodity as a shared heritage. The objective of this paper is to accentuate the significance of safeguarding Basmati rice as a GI product in the context of international trade. This study was carried out using a descriptive and mixed research technique. It concludes by highlighting the need to enhance the preservation of Basmati rice as a GI product, ensuring its continuous recognition and worth in international trade.