In a major boost to agricultural exports from Northeast India, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first export consignment of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai.
The one-metric-tonne consignment was exported on June 7, marking a significant milestone in expanding international market access for premium agricultural produce from the region. Tezpur Litchi is among Assam’s most renowned horticultural products, valued for its exceptional sweetness, bright-red colour, distinct aroma and superior eating quality.
The GI-tagged fruit is available in several popular varieties, including Bombaya, Bilati, Elaichi, Piyaji and Sahi, which are widely appreciated for their unique flavour profiles and quality attributes.
The export highlights the growing global acceptance of India’s GI-certified agricultural products and underscores the export potential of the North Eastern Region, known for its diverse range of high-value crops. Officials said the GI status has strengthened the product’s identity and market recognition, helping create premium export opportunities for local growers.
The consignment was ceremonially flagged off in the presence of Prithiraj Rava, MLA, Tezpur; Aruna Rajoria, IAS, Agriculture Production Commissioner, Government of Assam; Abhishek Dev, IAS, Chairman of APEDA; Ananda Kumar Das, ACS, District Commissioner of Sonitpur; along with representatives of DMR Green Valley Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd., farmers, exporters and government officials.
A notable outcome of the initiative has been improved earnings for farmers. Growers participating in the export supply chain reportedly received nearly 10 per cent higher prices compared to prevailing domestic market rates, despite robust demand within India. The development is expected to encourage more farmers to participate in export-oriented value chains and enhance livelihood opportunities in the region.
APEDA has been actively supporting agricultural exports from the North East through infrastructure development, quality certification, capacity-building programmes, export-oriented production practices and market linkage initiatives. Working closely with state governments, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), exporters and other stakeholders, the authority continues to integrate farmers into global value chains and promote region-specific products in international markets.
The successful shipment to Dubai is expected to open new avenues for larger export volumes in the coming years and further strengthen the global presence of Assam’s GI-tagged agricultural products. The initiative aligns with APEDA’s broader objective of enhancing agricultural exports, promoting value addition and diversifying markets for Indian farm produce.