Brazil’s National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) has recognized “Maranhão” as an Indication of Source for tiquira, a traditional distilled beverage produced from cassava.

Published on September 22, 2026, the registration became the 181st Geographical Indication recognized by INPI.

The protected geographical area covers five municipalities in the state of Maranhão: Santo Amaro do Maranhão, Barreirinhas, Urbano Santos, Santana do Maranhão and Santa Quitéria do Maranhão.

A traditional product linked to its territory

Tiquira is produced through the processing of cassava into beijus, followed by natural fermentation and distillation in copper stills.

The name itself derives from the Tupi word “tykir”, referring to the liquid falling drop by drop during the traditional distillation process.

Historical records of its production date back to Brazil’s colonial period, reinforcing its connection to Maranhão’s local culture and economy.

Who may use the Geographical Indication?

The registered geographical name is “Maranhão”, and the protected product is tiquira.

According to INPI, the right to use the Indication of Source is available to producers established within the defined geographical area who comply with the applicable Technical Specifications.

Membership in the organization that originally filed the application is not required.

Implications for the beverage supply chain

The registration is also relevant for distributors, retailers and other companies operating in the beverage industry.

Businesses marketing tiquira associated with the protected origin should assess whether suppliers comply with the geographical and technical requirements applicable to the GI.

Product labels, distribution agreements, advertising and other commercial communications should accurately represent the origin of the beverage.

For companies producing similar products outside the protected territory, particular attention should be given to the use of geographical references that could improperly associate those products with the registered indication.

Traceability and contracts

Supply and distribution agreements may become important tools for managing these risks.

Origin documentation, supplier representations, technical compliance obligations and traceability provisions can help companies confirm that references to the protected geographical origin are adequately supported.

The recognition of Maranhão’s tiquira demonstrates how traditional knowledge and regional reputation can become intellectual property assets.

For local producers, the registration strengthens territorial identity and product differentiation.

For companies across the supply chain, it reinforces the connection between intellectual property, contracts, labeling, traceability and marketing communications.