Turkish Coffee Gains EU Recognition as a Protected Traditional Product
November 7 - 2025
Coffee Geography Magazine
In a landmark decision that blends cultural heritage with international commerce, the rich aroma of Turkish coffee has now been formally acknowledged across the European Union. This beloved beverage, a cornerstone of Turkish daily life and tradition for centuries, has been officially registered as the first-ever “traditional product name” from Türkiye to be recognized by the EU. This achievement marks a significant milestone, elevating the status of the drink beyond its culinary role to a legally protected symbol of Turkish culture.
The announcement was formally made by the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB), which had spearheaded the application for this prestigious designation. According to a statement released by TOBB, the EU’s Official Journal has now completed the three-month registration process, finalizing the status of Turkish coffee. This recognition arrives on the heels of other successful EU registrations for iconic Turkish foods, including Hatay's "kaytaz böreği" and Gaziantep's "lahmacun," which were protected under geographical indication labels.
The TOBB statement powerfully underscored the profound significance of this recognition, noting that Turkish coffee is not merely a drink but a deeply rooted symbol of Turkish identity. It is an art form cherished for over 500 years, representing hospitality, meaningful conversation, and enduring friendship. The beverage already holds a place of honor on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List, and this new EU registration extends that protection into the commercial and legal spheres across Europe. "As TOBB, we continue to work to preserve, promote, and officially register our local and traditional values around the world," the announcement declared. "The unique aroma and flavor of Turkish coffee are now officially recognized across Europe."
Echoing this historic moment, TOBB President Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu shared the news with the public through his social media channels. He provided further context, revealing that with these recent successes, Hatay’s kaytaz böreği became the 39th Turkish product to obtain an EU geographical indication, while Gaziantep lahmacun became the 40th. Hisarcıklıoğlu emphasized that Türkiye possesses an extraordinary wealth of local products, a diversity that few other regions in the world can match.
He affirmed the ongoing commitment of the chamber and exchange community to this cause, stating, “Our ongoing work continues on 42 geographical indications and two traditional product names within the EU process.” This systematic effort signals a strategic push to safeguard Türkiye’s unique gastronomic heritage, ensuring that the names and preparation methods of its most iconic products are preserved and respected on the global stage. The formal recognition of Turkish coffee serves not only as a tribute to a historic tradition but as a beacon for the future of Turkish cultural exports.