Jiangsu has seven products under the geographical indications (GIs) system, including Longchi Fish, Dongting Mountain Biluochun Tea and Sheyang Rice, included on the second list of rural vitalization contributions, issued by the National Intellectual Property Administration.

The GI sign indicates the specific geographical origin of a product and is seen as a quality guarantee, playing a unique role in the branding of agricultural products. The list recognizes 80 such GI products nationwide for their contribution to the farmers’ incomes, with Jiangsu ranking second among province-level regions.

For instance, Longchi Fish, primarily found in Longchi Lake, enjoys a good reputation in Nanjing. To better market the species, the city is currently building a service center, with the main construction works being completed on November 20.

(CFP Photo)

Pizhou, under the administration of Xuzhou City, is the country's largest production base for high-quality garlic, housing more than 60 garlic enterprises. The GI sticker helps customers easily identify the source of origin.

Biluochun, grown in the Dongting Mountain region near Taihu Lake, is one of China’s famous green tea varieties and the first in Jiangsu recognized as a GI label. It has a modest annual production and is focused on the niche market.

To date, the province boasts more than 500 GI products, generating an annual output value of over 200 billion yuan. About 80% of Jiangsu’s GIs are granted to agricultural brands, and the remainder includes crafts such as Nanjing’s Yunjin (cloud brocade), Yixing’s purple clay teapot, and Donghai’s crystal.

Authorities in Jiangsu are intensifying efforts to protect the intellectual property rights of GI products. For example, Wuzhong District in Suzhou City is introducing local regulations to protect Biluochun Tea.