International Trade Effect of Geographical Indications: A Case Study of Basmati Rice Exports from India

Using secondary data from 1990–1991 to 2023–24, this article analyses the effect of geographical indication (GI) registration on basmati rice exports from India. We employed simple linear regression with a dummy variable for the post-GI registration period and interrupted time series models in analysing the effect on trade volume, trade value and unit value of exports. The effect of GI registration on basmati rice export outcomes was significant at the overall level. However, in terms of post-GI registration level and trend change, the effects were not significant. Further, heterogeneity in impact was observed in the analysis at the individual country level. We conclude that, for consolidating GI benefits through exports, protection in importing countries is needed together with quality assurance, and we suggest that a deeper analysis is needed to study market segmentation. JEL Classification: O34, F14, Q17, Q18