Bursa’s black figs receive European Union geographical indication status

Bursa’s renowned black figs have earned a prestigious geographical indication status from the European Union.

This designation, announced by Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli brings international recognition to the black fig, which joins the ranks of other EU-certified Turkish products like Gemlik olives and Bursa peaches.

Yumakli made the announcement on social media, stating, “Bursa’s black figs, following the Gemlik olive and Bursa peach, have now been certified by the EU. This raises our number of EU-registered products to 26.”

The announcement marks another milestone for Türkiye as it continues to protect its valuable agricultural products in global markets.

Bursa’s black figs: Key export, agricultural asset

Bursa’s black figs play a crucial role in the country’s agricultural exports. The region is responsible for nearly 10% of the fig production in Türkiye, with more than 65% of the black figs produced in Bursa exported to international markets. Countries like Germany, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and Malaysia receive large quantities of these figs, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Bursa’s black figs stand out due to their distinctive characteristics. Known for their dark purple exterior, bright red interior, and large size (55–65 mm), these figs are a product of careful cultivation that dates back centuries. The pollination method, known as ilekleme, is a regional tradition that local farmers perform by hand.

Male fig trees provide the necessary pollen for the female trees, ensuring the quality of the figs. This process is repeated three times between June and July, and experienced farmers carefully determine the number of male fig fruits needed to maintain the size and sweetness of the crop.

The figs grown in Bursa are significantly larger and darker in color compared to those from other regions. Due to their specific cultivation and the region’s soil and climate conditions, Bursa’s black figs have a rich, sweet flavor with a hint of acidity, making them a preferred choice in international markets. According to sensory analysis, these figs are of higher quality than similar varieties grown elsewhere.

Black figs’ quality, unique characteristics

The black figs from Bursa received their initial geographical indication within Türkiye in 2018, and this new EU certification solidifies their reputation as one of the world’s best table figs. The certification ensures that only figs produced in the Bursa region, under the specific growing conditions and processes, can carry the “Bursa siyah inciri” label.

Local farmers follow strict guidelines to maintain the quality of the figs. As part of the geographical indication, packages of Bursa’s black figs must display the geographical indication emblem along with the product’s logo, ensuring that consumers know they are purchasing an authentic product. Ibrahim Yumakli emphasized this in his statement, highlighting that “EU registration guarantees that these products meet specific standards, safeguarding their authenticity and quality for international consumers.”

Bursa’s black figs are not only appreciated for their taste but also for their health benefits. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein, making them a popular fruit for those looking to improve their diet. Historically, black figs from Bursa have held a prominent place in Ottoman cuisine and remain a symbol of the region’s agricultural legacy.

Expanding list of EU-certified products from Türkiye

Bursa’s black figs are now part of an exclusive list of Turkish products that have gained international recognition. Along with Gaziantep baklava, Aydin figs, and Malatya apricots, the black fig from Bursa contributes to Türkiye’s growing portfolio of EU-certified products. The country is actively pursuing more certifications to protect its agricultural products and ensure that they are marketed under strict quality standards.

Mehmet Fatih Kacir, industry and technology minister, commented on the significance of these certifications, stating, “With the addition of Bursa’s black figs, our number of EU-certified geographical indication products has reached 26. We have 61 more applications in progress, and four of them are already in the announcement phase.”

Türkiye is increasingly focused on bringing its high-quality agricultural products to the international stage. The demand for Bursa’s black figs continues to rise due to their outstanding quality, unique characteristics, and EU certification, which assures international consumers of their origin and production standards.