Matrouh Figs, Grapes & Olives Registered as Local Heritage Crops

Egypt has officially registered figs, grapes, and olives from Matrouh as geographical indications (GIs), recognising their unique local characteristics and reinforcing efforts to connect agricultural products with regional heritage. The move was announced during a session on agricultural GIs held on the sidelines of the 6th EU-Africa Agriculture Ministers Conference in Rome.

The registration of the three crops was presented as a result of the Integrated Rural Development Project in Matrouh, implemented in partnership with the European Union. Egypt has placed growing emphasis on protecting and registering products tied to specific regions and traditional farming methods, aiming to boost their competitiveness on international markets, particularly within the European Union.

A unique visual trademark, inspired by Pharaonic design, has been developed for each registered product to support branding and readiness for export. A national committee has been formed to manage the registration and protection of GI products, while the intellectual property rights portfolio has been transferred to the National Intellectual Property Authority, now operating under the Prime Minister’s Office to streamline governance.