Boost for litchi exports! Assam’s GI-tagged Tezpur litchi reaches Dubai, Singapore in first shipment

India has exported its first consignment of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Tezpur litchi from Assam to Dubai, marking a milestone in efforts to expand overseas markets for agricultural products from the Northeast, according to the commerce ministry.The one-metric-tonne consignment, exported on June 7, was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).The fruit is known for its sweetness, bright-red colour, distinctive aroma and eating quality.The commerce ministry said the export represents a step forward in promoting premium agricultural products from the North Eastern Region in international markets.Tezpur is known for cultivating several litchi varieties, including Bombaya, Bilati, Elaichi, Piyaji and Sahi.“The Geographical Indication (GI) status has strengthened the identity and market recognition of Tezpur Litchi, enhancing its appeal among international buyers and creating new opportunities for premium agricultural exports from Assam,” the ministry said.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 shipment has created new marketing opportunities for litchi growers and is expected to encourage greater participation in export-oriented value chains, contributing to enhanced incomes and sustainable livelihood opportunities,” APEDA said.The consignment was 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 DMR Green Valley Agro Fresh Pvt Ltd.The export comes as Tezpur marked 100 years of litchi cultivation during the recently concluded Tezpur Litchi Festival 2026.During the festival, around one tonne of litchis was exported to Dubai, while an additional 600 kg was shipped to Singapore. Officials said the exports highlighted the growing domestic and international recognition of the fruit for its taste, rich flesh and colour.Union commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the development, saying in a post on X that the export would help secure better prices for farmers and create new opportunities for agricultural products from Northeast India.Tezpur’s litchi cultivation dates back to 1923, when noted litterateur and former Tezpur Municipality chairman Padmanath Gohain Baruah established litchi orchards in the town.Today, more than 150 farmers cultivate litchis across over 400 bighas of land in the region, according to the Agnigarh Agricultural Producers Group, according to news agency ANI.The festival showcased several varieties of the fruit, including Chahi, Bilati, Bombaiya, Piyaji, Chinese, Rongiya, Kath Bombaiwa and Elaichi litchis.APEDA said the successful shipment to Dubai is expected to pave the way for larger export volumes in the future and strengthen the global presence of Assam’s GI-tagged agricultural products.