Assam's GI-tagged Tezpur litchi enters global market with first Dubai shipment

GUWAHATI, June 9: Assam’s famed GI-tagged Tezpur litchi has entered the international market for the first time, with the inaugural export consignment of the fruit being shipped to Dubai, marking a major milestone for the state’s horticulture sector.

The one-metric-tonne consignment of Tezpur litchi, known for its exceptional sweetness, bright-red colour, distinctive aroma and fleshy pulp, was exported with support from the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).

Grown primarily in and around Tezpur, the fruit received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its unique quality and regional identity. Popular varieties cultivated in the region include Bombaya, Bilati, Elaichi, Piyaji and Sahi, all prized for their flavour and superior eating quality.

The export is being seen as a breakthrough for Assam’s fruit growers, opening the door to premium international markets and potentially higher returns for farmers.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the development, saying the first overseas shipment would help establish Tezpur litchi in global markets while creating new opportunities for agricultural exports from the Northeast.

“With the support of APEDA, the first export consignment of Assam’s renowned Tezpur litchi has been shipped to Dubai. This step will give the region’s litchi global recognition, provide farmers with better prices and create new opportunities for agricultural products from Northeast India,” Goyal said in a post on X.

The export also highlights the growing demand for India’s GI-tagged agricultural products overseas and underscores the Northeast’s emerging role in the country’s agri-export landscape.

Officials said the shipment could pave the way for larger exports of Tezpur litchi in the coming years, helping connect Assam’s farmers directly with international consumers.

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