Samut Sakhon’s salted fish assigned GI

The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) has registered ‘Pla Salid Ban Phaeo’, a renowned dried salted fish from Samut Sakhon, as a Geographical Indication (GI).

DIP Director-General Auramon Supthaweethum stated that the fish stands out from those produced in other areas. One key reason is that it is raised in clean, organic environments, with ecologically sound and unpolluted water sources.

Samut Sakhon has a well-developed irrigation system, ensuring access to good-quality water throughout the year.

The area also has native grasses that help create natural food sources, along with traditional water management knowledge passed down through generations.

As a result, the product is of high quality and well received by consumers.

During processing, the fish are carefully dried to ensure a high-quality, hygienic product.

Pla Salid fish breeding began around 1974, using breeders from Samut Prakan. The fish became popular among agriculturists due to its environmental resilience and its ability to command higher prices than other species.

In 1984, more people recognized the opportunity in breeding this fish and started businesses in Ban Phaeo, making the district well known for it. The fish later became one of the souvenirs of Samut Songkhram that visitors often purchase.

The GI registration of ‘Pla Salid Ban Phaeo’ is aimed at adding value to agricultural products and strengthening local identity.

The registration is expected to increase recognition of ‘Pla Salid Ban Phaeo’, encouraging producers and entrepreneurs in Samut Sakhon to maintain production standards and continuously develop the product, she said.

Currently, Thailand has 256 registered GI products, generating 115.98 billion baht for local communities.