Research News

On 19 December 2025, Walailak University, in collaboration with the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Agricultural Extension Office and relevant working committees, conducted an on-site inspection at the Khiriwong Community Enterprise for Environmental Agriculture to assess the quality and geographical origin of the Geographical Indication (GI) product, “Khao Khiriwong Mangosteen.” The inspection aimed to reaffirm confidence in the standards and credibility of Thailand’s GI-certified community products.

Led by Walailak University’s Center for Academic Services, together with related government agencies, the University was invited by the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Agricultural Extension Office to serve as a member of the working committee responsible for evaluating applications for inspection and quality control of GI products. The assessment took place at the Khiriwong Community Enterprise in Kam Lon Subdistrict, Lan Saka District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.

This field inspection was conducted as part of the approval process for the use of the GI logo for “Khao Khiriwong Mangosteen.” A total of 40 farmers participated in the assessment, comprising 27 farmers applying for renewal of the GI logo usage and 13 farmers submitting new applications.

“Khao Khiriwong Mangosteen” is widely regarded as a treasured fruit of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province and was officially registered as a Geographical Indication product on 20 September 2021. The GI registration resulted from close collaboration between Walailak University, through its Center for Academic Services and School of Management, the Office of Provincial Commercial Affairs, the Provincial Agricultural Extension Office, and local farmer groups.

At present, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province has two GI-registered products recognized by the Department of Intellectual Property: Pak Phanang Tubtim Siam Pomelo and Khao Khiriwong Mangosteen. GI certification not only guarantees the product’s unique quality derived from local natural conditions and traditional knowledge but also serves as a “community brand” that enhances economic value and builds trust among consumers worldwide.

As a leading higher education institution in the region, Walailak University remains committed to serving as a mentor and partner in continuously monitoring and maintaining production standards. This ongoing support aims to preserve the reputation, identity, and long-term sustainability of Khao Khiriwong Mangosteen.

This initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, which promotes food security, improved nutrition, and sustainable agriculture, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, reinforcing collaboration among networks and relevant agencies.