Call for awareness, GI tagging and govt support to unlock potential
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and other dignitaries during the inauguration of Cashew Fest in Panaji on Friday.
PANAJI
A technical session held on the sidelines of the three‑day Cashew Fest in Goa turned the spotlight on the famed heritage drink, feni, with industry voices and officials stressing the need for global promotion and stronger branding through the Geographical Indication (GI) certification.
Hansel Vaz, a noted producer and owner of the ‘Cazulo’ brand, said feni has the potential to go global if backed by greater awareness, industry collaboration, and government support.
“Tequila gained international popularity only because Mexico backed it. Feni deserves a similar push. It must be promoted as a true ‘Make in India’ heritage drink through international platforms and curated global experiences,” Vaz said at a technical session.
Deepak Parab, nodal officer of the Goa State Council for Science and Technology, emphasised the importance of GI certification for cashew products.
He said 80 per cent of local cashew producers should enter the market with GI‑tagged products to curb the sale of inferior cashews brought in from outside the State.
“Goa’s cashew has a distinct taste. But low‑quality cashews are being sold under Goa’s name. GI‑tagged products will protect farmers, producers, and consumers. Proper branding is equally important,” Parab noted.
He added that while one feni producer and the Forest Development Corporation’s cashew have already secured GI tags, more local producers must follow suit.
“The government has introduced regulations to protect local cashew and related products. But cooperation from producers is essential. We are ready to amend rules to simplify the process if needed,” Parab said.
The session also featured contributions from Food and Drugs Administration official Richard Noronha, entrepreneur Rohit Zantye, and beverage curator Keshav Prakash, who together underscored the need to safeguard Goa’s cashew identity and elevate feni’s profile on the global stage.
The Cashew Fest, which opened Friday, celebrates Goa’s cashew culture and its diverse products.
