APEDA facilitated the first export of one metric tonne of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai, opening new international market opportunities for farmers.
Guwahati, June 9: In a significant boost to agricultural exports from Northeast India, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever export of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai.
The inaugural shipment, comprising one metric tonne of Tezpur Litchi, was exported on June 7, marking a new milestone in expanding international market access for agricultural products from the region.
Tezpur Litchi is among Assam's most renowned horticultural products and is known for its bright-red appearance, exceptional sweetness, distinctive aroma and superior eating quality. The fruit is cultivated across parts of Sonitpur district and includes popular varieties such as Bombaya, Bilati, Elaichi, Piyaji and Sahi.
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— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) June 8, 2026
According to APEDA, the export reflects the increasing global acceptance of India's GI-tagged agricultural products and demonstrates the export potential of the Northeast, which is home to a wide range of high-value agricultural commodities.
The GI status accorded to Tezpur Litchi has helped strengthen its identity and market recognition, enhancing its appeal among international buyers and creating opportunities for premium exports from Assam.
The consignment was ceremonially flagged off in the presence of Tezpur MLA Prithiraj Rava, Assam Agriculture Production Commissioner Aruna Rajoria, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, Sonitpur District Commissioner Ananda Kumar Das and representatives of exporter DMR Green Valley Agro Fresh Pvt Ltd. Farmers, exporters, APEDA officials and other stakeholders also attended the programme.
A major benefit of the export initiative has been improved returns for growers. APEDA stated that farmers associated with the export supply chain received nearly 10 per cent higher prices than prevailing domestic market rates despite strong demand within the country.
Officials said the export has opened new marketing channels for litchi growers and is expected to encourage more farmers to participate in export-oriented value chains. The initiative is also expected to contribute to higher incomes and more sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region.
APEDA has been actively promoting agricultural exports from the Northeast through infrastructure support, quality certification, capacity-building programmes, export-oriented cultivation practices and market linkage initiatives. The authority works closely with state governments, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), exporters and other stakeholders to integrate farmers into global supply chains.
The successful shipment to Dubai is expected to pave the way for larger export volumes in the coming years and further strengthen the international presence of Assam's GI-tagged products.
Officials said the initiative reflects APEDA's broader efforts to connect Indian farmers with overseas markets while promoting value-added agricultural exports from the Northeast.
Established under the APEDA Act of 1985, APEDA functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and is responsible for promoting exports of scheduled agricultural and processed food products. The authority provides support through quality development, infrastructure assistance, capacity building and market promotion initiatives aimed at expanding export opportunities for Indian farmers and agribusinesses.
