Muscat – The sultanate has secured international registration for Omani frankincense as a geographical indication with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), granting the product formal protection under the Lisbon system.

The certificate marks a milestone for one of Oman’s oldest traded commodities, historically linked to the ancient Incense Route and the sultanate’s commercial exchanges with Asia, Africa and Europe.

Nasra bint Sultan Al Habsi, Director General of Commerce at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, said the registration is the first of its kind in the Gulf region and reflects efforts to protect Omani frankincense and boost its position in global markets.

“The registration links the product to its authentic geographical origin and to the unique characteristics derived from its natural environment and cultural heritage,” she said.

The move follows Oman’s accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications, which provides a unified international framework for protecting products tied to specific regions.

Under the system, protection extends beyond national borders to other contracting parties, while allowing flexibility in implementation under domestic laws.

Khalid bin Hamoud Al Hinai, Director of the National Intellectual Property Office, said the registration provides formal international recognition of Omani frankincense through its inclusion in WIPO’s register.

He described the step as an economic shift in the management of national intangible assets. “Geographical indication protection strengthens consumer confidence and enhances the competitiveness of Omani products that incorporate frankincense,” he said.

Al Hinai added that the recognition allows entrepreneurs and companies to leverage the product’s reputation within an established legal framework, while supporting sustainability through adherence to production standards.

Harvested mainly in Dhofar, frankincense is used in perfumery, health products, cosmetics and heritage goods. Officials say international recognition will help build a unified brand and expand access to foreign markets.

WIPO has also shown interest in supporting producers through branding and marketing initiatives aimed at increasing added value.

Beyond legal safeguards, geographical indication protection can stimulate local economies, empower producing communities and diversify income sources, Al Hinai said.

The ministry plans to pursue similar registrations for other Omani products, including food items and handicrafts, to prevent misuse and boost their global standing.

Frankincense sites such as Wadi Dawkah, a natural reserve known for its trees, are also seen as tourism assets. Organised visits and related activities could further integrate heritage, trade and tourism, reinforcing the product’s role in Oman’s economic and cultural landscape.