A few days ago, the Junta de Andalucía presented the campaign ‘El poder del origen’ (The Power of Origin), an initiative aimed at extending protected designations to industrial products of artisanal origin. As part of this initiative, the ceramic artisans of Mijas have been selected for Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, making them the only artisans in the province of Málaga to hold this designation. 

This was announced on Thursday 12th by the mayoress of Mijas, Ana Mata (PP), and the provincial delegate for Industry, Energy and Mines, Antonio García, at an event attended by artisans from the Mijas Craft Association, including the potters whose craft, specifically the traditional ‘Málaga flowerpot’, was selected to be protected under this new umbrella.

Protected Geographical Indications

The initiative follows the entry into force of a new European Union directive designed to protect Geographical Indications (GI) for industrial and craft products manufactured in specific regions. 

This label will certify the origin of products and eliminate unfair competition, thereby promoting fair competition with similar products from other geographical areas. 

“For Mijas, its artisanal tradition is one of its most important hallmarks. A town that has managed to maintain, improve and strengthen its artistic creation through ceramics, and that effort is being rewarded today with the PGI. I particularly welcome the step forward that this distinction represents for our artisans, because since 2018, Mijas has been recognised as an Area of Artisan Interest, distinguishing our specialised trades”, explained the mayoress. She added that “Through the combined will of various administrations, we can ensure that Mijas remains a benchmark, not only here in our own land but on an international level”.

 

“Barely three months after Brussels opened the application window for this seal of origin and quality, several sectors are already preparing their requests with the guidance of the Regional Ministry, most notably the ‘Málaga flowerpot’”, said García, who pointed out that the Regional Ministry is working with all these artisanal activities “to accelerate their recognition in Andalusia, a process with great potential, as 62 potential beneficiaries have already been identified”. 

The ‘Power of Origin’ campaign aims to reach every sector of craftsmanship and industry across Andalusia. It emphasises that in Andalusia, and more specifically in Mijas, products are not simply made, they are built with a heritage of origin.

 

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