Guwahati: Assam’s renowned Tezpur Litchi has reached international shelves, with the first export consignment of the GI-tagged fruit being shipped to Dubai on June 7. The export, facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), is being seen as a step forward in expanding overseas markets for agricultural produce from the North East.

The one-tonne consignment consisted of Tezpur Litchi, a fruit known for its bright red skin, sweetness, aroma and distinctive flavour. Assam cultivates several varieties of litchi, including Bombaya, Bilati, Elaichi, Piyaji and Sahi, all of which are popular for their quality and taste.

Officials said the Geographical Indication (GI) tag has helped strengthen the product’s identity and market recognition, making it more attractive to international buyers. The export also reflects growing demand for India’s GI-tagged agricultural products in overseas markets and highlights the export potential of the North Eastern Region.

The consignment was flagged off at a ceremony attended by Tezpur MLA Prithiraj Rava, Assam Agriculture Production Commissioner Aruna Rajoria, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, Sonitpur District Commissioner Ananda Kumar Das, representatives of exporter DMR Green Valley Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd., farmers, exporters and government officials.

According to APEDA, farmers linked to the export supply chain received nearly 10 per cent higher prices than prevailing domestic market rates despite strong local demand. The agency believes the development will open new marketing avenues for litchi growers and encourage greater participation in export-focused value chains.

APEDA has been working to promote agricultural exports from the North East through infrastructure support, quality certification, capacity-building programmes, export-oriented production practices and market linkage initiatives. The authority has also been collaborating with state governments, farmer producer organisations (FPOs) and exporters to improve access to international markets.

Officials expect the successful shipment to create opportunities for larger exports of Tezpur Litchi in the coming years while strengthening the global presence of Assam’s GI-tagged products.

Established under the APEDA Act, 1985, the authority functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and is responsible for promoting exports of scheduled agricultural and processed food products. It supports exporters, farmers and FPOs through quality development, infrastructure assistance, market promotion and capacity-building efforts.

BI Bureau