Assam's GI-Tagged Tezpur Litchi Reaches International Market with First Export to Dubai

Assam's famous GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi has entered international markets with its first export consignment to Dubai, marking a major milestone for agricultural exports from Northeast India.

The initiative is expected to provide better prices to farmers, increase global recognition of Assam's horticultural products, and boost exports from Northeast India.

Important Points

Tezpur Litchi's first export consignment was shipped to Dubai with APEDA's support.

The export marks the entry of Assam's GI-tagged Tezpur Litchi into international markets.

Around 1 tonne of litchi was exported to Dubai, while about 600 kg was shipped to Singapore during the Tezpur Litchi Festival 2026.

The initiative aims to improve farmers' income through access to global markets.

The export coincides with the centenary (100 years) of litchi cultivation in Tezpur.

Tezpur Litchi is known for its attractive colour, rich pulp, unique flavour and high pulp-to-seed ratio.

More than 150 farmers cultivate litchi across over 400 bighas of land in the Tezpur region.

About Tezpur Litchi

Tezpur Litchi became Assam's first Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged product in 2013.

It is primarily grown in the Sonitpur district of Assam.

Major varieties include Bombaiya, Chahi, Bilati, Piyaji, Chinese, Rongiya, Kath Bombaiya and Elaichi.

About APEDA

APEDA stands for Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority.

It functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

APEDA was established in 1986 through the APEDA Act, 1985.

About GI Tag

GI stands for Geographical Indication.

GI registration in India is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.

GI tags protect products that possess qualities or reputation linked to a specific geographical region.

Exam Focus Points (Quick Revision Notes)

Tezpur Litchi became Assam's first GI-tagged product in 2013.

First export consignment of Tezpur Litchi sent to Dubai.

Export facilitated by APEDA.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister: Piyush Goyal.

Tezpur Litchi is mainly grown in Sonitpur district of Assam.

Around 1 tonne exported to Dubai and 600 kg exported to Singapore.

Tezpur celebrated 100 years of litchi cultivation in 2026.

APEDA was established in 1986.

APEDA functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods Act, 1999.

Tezpur Litchi is known for rich pulp, unique flavour and high pulp-to-seed ratio.