Chile's Ministry of Agriculture has pushed for consolidation of the brand 'Pica Lemon' with a technical assistance program to support growers in the Pica region.

The small green lemons - most famous for their use in Pisco Sour cocktails - have been grown in other parts of the country, but Agriculture Minister José Antonio Galilea says the origin of authentic Pica-grown fruit will now be better-known.

"The registration of geographical indication for the Pica lemon was a desire that farmers in this oasis of the Tamarugal sector have held for 15 years," says Galilea.

"Thanks to their efforts and perseverence, they will be able to differentiate this citrus fruit from those produced in other parts of the country, assuring consumers that it was actually grown and produced in this area under strict rules of security and quality."

Chile's National Institute of Industrial Property have authorized the use of the name 'Limon de Pica' - or 'Pica Lemon' - for Pica Agricultural Cooperative Limited to protect the brand against third parties who wish to use it.

The geographical area where the fruit is produced covers an area of 5,808.63 hectares, producing around 500,000 metric tons (MT) annually.

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