Geographical definition area

the case of Geographical Indication of São Joaquim Region’s Fuji Apple, Santa Catarina State

Abstract

The geographical indication is a concept of great importance because it values the particularities of different products from different regions, and, consequently, the territories where these products occur. The study aimed to carry out the geographical delimitation of the Fuji apple production area in São Joaquim Region, SC, through the use and overlapping of climatic, phytogeographic, phenological and productive criteria. Through the study it can be seen that the region is conducive to the cultivation of the Fuji apple because it presents, in its great majority, regions with an altitude above 1000 meters and lower temperatures, both during the winter and in the pre-harvest period. These conditions guarantee sweeter fruits, with better color, larger size and a longer conservation period, reflecting on obtaining unique quality products specific to São Joaquim region. The climate, the location of the producers and the packing house were the factors that defined the geographical area. The origin denomination of the Fuji apple in the São Joaquim region has an area of 4,928 km², corresponding to 5.15% of the territory of Santa Catarina. It can be inferred that geographical indications have consolidated themselves as a strong option for a new stage of Brazilian territorial development, since it can aggregate and generate wealth for producers, especially small ones, by moving the local economy, creating typical and traditional products, with a differentiated quality.

Keywords: Agricultural aptitude. Rural producer. Appellation of origin. Phytogeographic criteria. Territorial development.