Mallorcan Textiles Official Recogition
The Consell de Mallorca and the Association of Teixidors of Mallorca met this week to formalise the application for the label: Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) “Tela de llengües de Mallorca”. This registration marks the beginning of the European recognition process for one of the most emblematic products of the cultural and artisan heritage of Mallorca, with the aim of guaranteeing its protection, promotion and authenticity of Mallorcan textiles.
The event took place in Teixits Riera, in Lloseta, and was attended by the president of the Consell de Mallorca, Llorenç Galmés; the vice-president and councillor for Culture and Heritage, Antònia Roca, and representatives of the only three production companies on the island: Biel Riera (Teixits Riera), Tomeu Fuster (Teixits Vicens) and María Isabel Bujosa (Teixits Bujosa).
The president of the Consell de Mallorca, Llorenç Galmés, stressed that “with this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to the defence of the heritage and culture of Mallorca. The protection of the llengües fabric not only safeguards a symbol of our identity, but also boosts our economy and our artisans.”
A Milestone for the Preservation of Mallorcan Textiles
Over the last few months, the three producers of llengües fabrics on the island, along with the Consell de Mallorca, have worked on the preparation of all the documentation required under the European regulations. The application was handed to the Consell de Mallorca, which will forward it to the Government of the Balearic Islands and the Government of Spain before being evaluated in Brussels. During this process, the llengües fabric will receive temporary national protection, ensuring that authentic products can be identified and protected against counterfeiting.
Benefits of the PGI for Mallorcan Fabrics
The Protected Geographical Indication will provide multiple advantages. It means the fabric will be protected against counterfeiting and unfair competition, since the PGI will guarantee that only products made according to established standards can use the name ‘teal de llengües de Mallorca’. It provides recognition and added value; and will guarantee the preservation of artisan techniques which will serve as a tool for cultural and tourist promotion, since it will highlight the connection of the fabric with the tradition and history of Mallorca.
President Galmés explained that the Consell de Mallorca will have a key role in this project: “the island institution will be responsible for verifying the production process annually to guarantee its quality and authenticity. In this way, the creation of a Regulatory Council is avoided and bureaucratic procedures are simplified.”
Read our article from the archive about Teixits Viçens.
