Assam’s GI-Tagged Tezpur Litchi Reaches Dubai Market

The one-metric-tonne consignment consisted of Tezpur Litchi, a fruit widely recognised for its bright-red colour, rich sweetness, distinctive aroma and excellent eating quality.

In a significant boost for agricultural exports from Northeast India, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first export consignment of GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi from Assam to Dubai. The shipment, dispatched on 7 June 2026, marks an important step in connecting farmers from the region with international markets and expanding the global footprint of Assam's premium horticultural produce.

The one-metric-tonne consignment consisted of Tezpur Litchi, a fruit widely recognised for its bright-red colour, rich sweetness, distinctive aroma and excellent eating quality. Cultivated mainly in the Sonitpur region, the fruit includes popular varieties such as Bombaya, Bilati, Elaichi, Piyaji and Sahi, each valued for its unique flavour and texture.

GI Recognition Strengthens Global Demand for Assam's Premium Fruit

The Geographical Indication (GI) tag has played a key role in enhancing the market identity of Tezpur Litchi. The certification highlights the fruit's unique geographical origin and quality characteristics, making it more attractive to buyers seeking authentic and premium agricultural products.

The successful export demonstrates the growing demand for India's GI-tagged products in overseas markets. It also showcases the export potential of the North Eastern Region, which produces a wide range of high-value fruits, spices and agricultural commodities with strong international appeal.

The consignment was flagged off in the presence of Tezpur MLA Prithiraj Rava, Agriculture Production Commissioner of Assam Aruna Rajoria, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, Sonitpur District Commissioner Ananda Kumar Das and representatives from M/s DMR Green Valley Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd. Farmers, exporters and officials from APEDA and the Assam government also participated in the event.

Farmers Receive Better Prices Through Export Linkages

One of the most notable outcomes of the initiative has been the financial benefit to growers. Farmers linked to the export supply chain received nearly 10 per cent higher prices than prevailing domestic market rates, even at a time when local demand for litchi remained strong.

The export has created fresh marketing avenues for producers and is expected to encourage more farmers to participate in export-focused value chains. Increased access to international markets can help improve farm incomes while creating more sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region.

APEDA has been working extensively to promote agricultural exports from Northeast India through quality certification, infrastructure support, capacity-building programmes, export-oriented farming practices and market linkage initiatives. The organisation has also collaborated closely with state governments, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), exporters and other stakeholders to help farmers meet international standards and access global buyers.

Officials believe the successful shipment to Dubai could pave the way for larger exports of Tezpur Litchi in the coming years. The development is expected to strengthen the international presence of Assam's GI-tagged products while reinforcing India's position as a supplier of premium agricultural produce to global markets.