Over 2 crore worth of shipments to Saudi Arabia and the UAE position Assam’s oud industry for international expansion and rural economic growth
Guwahati: Assam has entered the international oud market with its first authorised export of agarwood chips to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, marking a major development for the state’s agro-forest economy.
The inaugural consignment, worth around Rs 2.35 crore, left from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport on Wednesday after receiving all statutory approvals, including CITES clearance and a restricted export licence from the DGFT. The shipment included 100 kg of agarwood chips for Saudi Arabia and 12 kg for Dubai.
Jehirul Islam, who flagged off the consignment, described the export as a “historic achievement” for Assam’s traditional agarwood sector. “This milestone reflects years of plantation expansion, policy support, farmer participation and adherence to international trade standards,” he said.
Known globally as oud, agarwood is widely used in premium perfumes, incense and cosmetic products, especially across Gulf nations and Southeast Asia. Industry experts say Assam-grown agarwood enjoys strong demand because of its distinctive aroma and high oil yield.
Moreover, stakeholders believe the regulated export system will create new opportunities for farmers, traders and small businesses while reducing illegal trade. Officials also expect the Assam Agarwood Promotion Policy, 2020 to encourage investment in value-added products such as oud oil, bakhoor and fragrances.
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