Panaji: Industry representatives at the Assocham GI Conclave on Friday called for stronger supply chains, authentic labelling and greater participation from the hospitality sector to promote Goa’s geographical indication (GI) products and local agricultural produce.During a panel discussion titled ‘Integrating local heritage into hospitality: Building direct farm-to-table supply chains for Goa’s GI commodities and agricultural produce,’ speakers said market access for GI goods would expand only through coordinated efforts by govt departments, industry associations, hotels, restaurants and farmer-producer organisations, with clear benefits flowing back to local farmers.Pointing to feni’s growing acceptance in premium establishments, Vipalava Bhakta, a member of the Goa Cashew Feni Distillers and Bottlers Association, said fine-dining restaurants had once been reluctant to feature the traditional spirit. She cited a restaurant that introduced feni cocktails in 2013; within five years, those cocktails became its best-selling beverage, showing how effective branding and premium positioning can shift consumer perceptions.Speakers also underlined the need to clearly distinguish GI-certified feni from other products through proper verification, labelling, and compliance with prescribed production standards. Rohit Zantye, president of the Goa Cashew Manufacturing Association, called for stronger traceability and action against counterfeit products to protect authenticity and maintain consumer confidence.Nilesh Shah, former president of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa, said hotels, restaurants, clubs, and tour operators must be encouraged to incorporate local products into menus and visitor experiences. He said this would require a reliable supply chain, a clear listing of products and suppliers, and stronger coordination between producers and buyers.Panelists added that promoting local produce must translate into tangible benefits for farmers and help sustain agricultural production in Goa. They said existing collaborations involving the agriculture department and industry stakeholders could be strengthened to improve marketing and procurement.The discussion concluded with three priorities: Helping consumers identify genuine GI products, getting the hospitality and tourism sectors to showcase local produce, and ensuring coordinated action among government agencies, industry bodies, and farmer-producer organisations.
