Kırsal kalkınma aracı olarak coğrafi işaretler ve geleneksel ürünler: Medeniyetler şehri Hatay örneği

Aims : The province of Hatay is one of Turkey’s most important provinces with regard to its cultural richness and the variety of its local products, and in this study, an investigation is made of the current state of its geographical indications and traditional products, their potential, and their contribution to rural development. Methods and Results : In this study, products and potential products with a registered geographical indication of Hatay province were obtained from the data of relevant institutions, and in-depth interviews were held with experts on the topic in those institutions. Also, observations relating to the products were made in the relevant areas. As a result, it was found that although the potential for local products was very high, the levels of exploitation and awareness were low. Conclusions : In a globalising world, the increase in the importance of local values, the acquisition of value by local products and their contribution to rural development attract attention. In underdeveloped regions, in particular, traditional products can constitute an important opening for rural development and can create important areas of employment for women and young people. Significance and Impact of the Study : Developing the capacity of both the public and the private sector and especially cooperatives with regard to geographical indications and achieving producer and consumer awareness are important for rural development.