Turkish Coffee Gains EU Recognition as a “Traditional Speciality Guaranteed” Product

Turkish coffee — a centuries-old symbol of hospitality and tradition in Türkiye — has reached a remarkable milestone: it has become the first Turkish product to be registered in the European Union under the Traditional Specialities Guaranteed (TSG) scheme, according to the TOBB (Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye).

The decision was published in the Official Journal of the European Union following a three-month review process. TOBB originally submitted the application, highlighting the coffee’s traditional preparation methods, its finely ground roast, and its cultural heritage.

Unlike geographical indications such as PGI or PDO, the TSG label does not tie a product to a specific region. Rather, it protects the method of production and the traditional characteristics of the item, even if it’s produced outside its original birthplace.

For Türkiye, this registration is particularly meaningful: Turkish coffee has been part of the country’s daily life and social customs for over 500 years, and it is already listed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

TOBB’s president, Rıfat Hisarcıklıoğlu, praised the recognition, calling it a formal acknowledgment of Turkish coffee’s cultural value and its importance in community life.

The TSG registration also provides new legal protection for Turkish coffee in Europe. With this status, “Türk Kahvesi” (Turkish Coffee) now enjoys official recognition for its traditional roasting and brewing processes, contributing both to preservation and to stronger international brand identity.

Commentators see this as the next phase in Türkiye’s efforts to secure EU protection for its culinary heritage. TOBB has reportedly applied for other traditional product names and geographical indications, and this may strengthen the country’s portfolio of recognized European products.