Kochi, Jan 6 (NationPress) Kochi, Kerala has launched the International Spice Routes Heritage Network, a global collaborative initiative designed to harness the state's rich maritime trade history to promote cultural tourism, research collaboration, and creative economies.

This initiative marks a significant effort to redefine heritage as a dynamic economic and tourism asset, moving away from a static historical perspective.

Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas introduced this initiative during the opening of the three-day International Spice Routes Conference, themed “Ancient Trails. New Journeys”, at Bolgatty Palace.

Hosted by the Kerala Tourism Department in partnership with the Muziris Heritage Project, the event from January 6-8 convenes historians, policymakers, and cultural professionals from both India and abroad.

In a video conference address, Riyas indicated that the Spice Routes Network would serve as a platform for collaborative research, collective projects, and shared resources in areas like heritage conservation, archaeology, documentation, and museum development.

“Kerala is viewing heritage not merely as a relic but as a vibrant resource that can foster cultural dialogue, tourism, and inclusive growth,” he stated, emphasizing the initiative's goal to reconnect historical routes, revive memories, and forge partnerships across borders.

In addition to its academic focus, the conference emphasizes Kerala’s ambition to capitalize on the increasing global demand for high-value, immersive, and culturally rich travel experiences.

Tourism officials believe that the Spice Routes narrative, rooted in centuries of global exchanges, will set Kerala apart in a competitive tourism landscape.

During the conference, Kerala Tourism Director Sikha Surendran remarked that long before modern borders, spice routes significantly influenced global trade.

She noted that Muziris was more than just a port; it was a meeting point for civilizations that engaged in negotiation and learning.

“From this coast, spices carried the essence of Kerala to faraway lands, while ideas returned, transforming societies, cultures, and lifestyles,” she added, insisting that heritage should be perceived as a living, community-driven force.

Historians at the conference underscored Kerala’s pivotal role in global trade networks.

Prof. Michael Tharakan, former Vice Chancellor of Kannu University, traced Kochi’s emergence as a crucial colonial port following the Interportal Trade Convention under British rule.

Former JNU professor Pius Malekandathil highlighted that Malabar pepper reached European and North African markets as early as the 8th century through Arab trade routes, with pepper even serving as a common medicinal ingredient in parts of Germany during the 14th and 15th centuries.

By merging historical research with tourism strategies, the Spice Routes initiative aims to transform Kerala’s historical trading legacy into a progressive economic and cultural opportunity.