Potencialidade da produção de açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) na região da Foz do Mazagão: um estudo de viabilidade técnica para avaliar a potencialidade do açaí do município de Mazagão através de indicação geográfica.

Abstract

The registration of Geographical Indication (GI) provides competitive advantages to products or services originating from a specific location, when their quality, characteristics, and reputation are essentially derived from their geographical origin. One of the fundamental premises of GI is the valorization and socioeconomic development of the protected region. The region of Foz do Mazagão, located in the municipality of Mazagão in the state of Amapá, was identified by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA) as a territory with potential for obtaining GI through the agricultural product açaí. However, studies directed towards this purpose were scarce, which generated uncertainties about this potentiality. In this context, the objective of this research was to analyze whether the production of açaí developed in the region of Foz do Mazagão Velho met the requirements for GI registration, whether in the species Indication of Source or Denomination of Origin. To this end, this research was based on MAPA’s guide to Geographical Indications and on the technical specifications defined by ordinance number 4/22 of the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). The methodology employed adopted an exploratory and qualitative approach, using bibliographic research, secondary data, and primary research. The results highlighted the notoriety of the Foz do Mazagão Velho region in the production of açaí, which can be evidenced by documents that attest to the relevance of this region as a center for production/extraction of açaí. With a view to Geographical Indication, the preliminary recommendation consists in the possibility of GI through the species Indication of Source, given the fame that the region has in relation to the production of açaí. However, to achieve this goal, it will be necessary to overcome obstacles, especially those related to corporate governance of local representative entities. The option for Denomination of Origin was not discarded; however, additional studies would be necessary to meet the requirements of this species of Indication. This study aims to assist in enabling recognition of GI from Foz do Mazagão Velho which, once structured, can intensify the competitiveness of açaí not only in the local market but throughout national territory. This would result in development, recognition and valorization of the region, as well as adding value to the product and fostering traditional and sustainable production practices. This work also filled a gap by examining the feasibility of GI for the Foz do Mazagão Velho region, contributing elements that can substantiate structuring GI and consequently support registration request with INPI.