Paraguay launches initiative to protect traditional gastronomy

The National Secretariat of Culture (SNC) in Paraguay is implementing an inter-institutional agenda to preserve the country's traditional recipes, ingredients, and culinary techniques. The initiative aims to safeguard Paraguayan gastronomy as intangible cultural heritage while promoting it globally through culinary diplomacy and a national brand strategy.

Key milestones include the submission of chipa as a candidate for UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Additionally, the SNC has officially declared 'Caña Paraguaya' (Paraguayan rum) and 'Cocido Tradicional Paraguayo' (traditional mate tea) as intangible cultural heritage.

To ensure legal and economic protection, the SNC is collaborating with the National Directorate of Intellectual Property (DINAPI) to develop Denominations of Origin and Geographical Indications. These measures are designed to protect products linked to specific territories and traditional methods, strengthening the connection between local farmers, producers, and the commercial sector.