Uzbekistan has registered Samarkand bread, known locally as Samarqand noni, as a trademark, strengthening legal protection for one of the country’s best-known traditional foods.
The Ministry of Justice announced the registration on October 14, saying it would help preserve the product’s identity, protect its name and increase its commercial value.
The decision follows an earlier move in February 2025, when Samarkand bread received geographical indication status, recognising its connection to the region where it is traditionally produced.
The new trademark registration provides an additional layer of protection, with the certificate valid for 10 years under Uzbekistan’s trademark legislation.
What does trademark protection mean for Samarkand bread?
A geographical indication identifies a product whose quality, reputation or other characteristics are closely linked to its place of origin.
In Samarkand bread’s case, this status helps distinguish the traditional product from bread made elsewhere under the same geographical name.
Trademark registration provides separate legal protection for the registered brand, helping prevent unauthorised commercial use of the protected designation.
However, the registration does not mean that only one bakery can produce Samarkand-style bread. Geographical indication rules allow eligible producers in the designated region to use the protected name if their products meet the applicable requirements.
Samarkand bread is recognised for its round shape, thick edges and decorated centre. Traditionally baked in clay ovens known as tandirs, it is closely associated with the region’s culinary heritage.
The Ministry of Justice said the registration would help preserve Uzbekistan’s gastronomic traditions while improving the market position and economic potential of its national products.
Other traditional Uzbek products have also received geographical indication protection, including Kokand bread, Margilan atlas fabric and Gijduvan kebab.
