Söke Pamuğu, a particular type of cotton from Türkiye has been granted Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the European Union, in recognition of its special characteristics tied to the region’s environment and its traditional cultivation methods. This registration also aims to enhance the product’s economic value for local producers.
- Söke Pamuğu represents the EU’s and Türkiye’s first cotton product from the Aydın province. The next stage after cotton production is the transformation of cotton into yarn. At this stage, the EU’s registration will make Söke Pamuğu cotton preferable for yarn manufacturers.
- The EU registration will also secure global recognition, making marketing easier and increasing earnings for producers.
SOKE AND PAMUGU: Cotton production has a long tradition in the Söke district. Cotton has been grown in the district since 1700. So much so that, in the 1830s, the sails of Ottoman ships were woven with yarn produced from Söke Pamuğu.
- Söke Pamuğu, grown in the Söke district of Aydın province, has a lustrous appearance and long fibres.
- The yarn made from this cotton is both fine and durable.
- The quality parameters of cotton, such as colour, are more influenced by environmental conditions and cultivation techniques than by the genetic structure of the variety.
- The outstanding quality of the Söke Pamuğu is closely linked to the soil structure and microclimate of the Söke district.
WHAT THEY SAID
It is a great honour that the first PGI registration for cotton has been awarded to a product from Türkiye. The EU’s recognition plays a crucial role in enhancing the prestige of products, such as this cotton. With the PGI logo, Söke Pamuğu producers will have enhanced market opportunities and therefore gain more economic power. The PGI logo will help protect this cotton from fraud, and the consumers will know they are receiving the genuine Söke Pamuğu when they see the logo.
— Thomas Ossowski
Ambassador / Head of the Delegation
European Union / Türkiye
Söke Pamuğu’s commitment to environmentally friendly production methods and sustainability, especially with the EU registration, will create great confidence in the eyes of international consumers and business partners. We aim to ensure that Söke Pamuğu obtains the value it deserves worldwide and to establish our region as a leading centre for agriculture.
— Nejat Sağel
President
Söke Commodity Exchange
Cotton farming in Söke is very professional. The EU logo will increase both the quality of the product and the global recognition of Söke Pamuğu.
— Adil Candal
Cotton Producer
