Assam, the jewel of Northeast India, is not just a land of breathtaking natural beauty and cultural diversity but also an economic hub with significant contributions to India’s export sector. The state’s wealth of resources and skilled artisans makes it a powerhouse of diverse exportable goods. Let’s dive into the top export products of Assam, uncovering the potential growth of export trade in Assam.

1. Assam Tea: The Brew that Rules the World

Assam is synonymous with tea, and rightly so. The state is the world’s largest producer of tea, with small and big tea growers contributing significantly to its production. In 2023, the production of tea under small growers was approximately 189.82 million kg, while big growers produced 202.09 million kg​. Assam tea enjoys global demand due to its bold flavor and strong aroma, making it one of the top export products of Assam in the international market.

Key Stats

• Total Production (2023): 391.91 million kg

• Types of Tea: CTC, Orthodox, and Green Tea

• Export Destinations: UK, USA, Russia, and the Middle East

2. Crude Petroleum and Natural Gas: Energy Export Giants

Crude oil and petroleum products have been bearing the status of top export products of Assam since the 18th century. Assam is one of India’s leading producers of crude petroleum and natural gas. The oil fields of Digboi, Duliajan, and Moran contribute to the state’s export portfolio. These natural resources are refined and shipped to various parts of India and abroad.

Key Stats

• Contribution to State GDP: Significant share in industrial GDP

• Exported Products: Crude petroleum, petroleum by-products, and natural gas

The petroleum sector’s consistent output plays a vital role in strengthening Assam’s economy and supporting India’s energy needs.

3. Forest Products: The Versatile Export Hero

Assam’s vast forest resources enable it to export high-demand products like timber, bamboo, broom grass, and agarwood. Among these, agarwood holds a special place due to its use in perfumes and incense.

Key Products and Stats

• Bamboo: Total production of 763,486 MT valued at ₹167.97 crore​

• Agarwood Chips and Oil: Widely used in the perfume industry

• Broom Grass: Grown and harvested for export, catering to high domestic and global demand

Among these forest products, bamboo and bamboo-made handicrafts are some of the top export products of Assam that not only contribute to Assam’s export economy but also support the livelihoods of local communities.

4. Sericulture: The Silk of Assam

The unique silk varieties of Assam—Eri, Muga, and Mulberry—are famous across the world and some of the top export products of Assam. Muga silk, in particular, is exclusive to Assam and considered a “golden” fabric. The silk industry supports thousands of artisans and contributes significantly to exports.

Key Stats

• Total Sericulture Villages: 8,722​

• Cocoon Production (2022-23):

  • Eri: 6,847.90 ‘000 kg

  • Muga: 10,439.94 lakh nos.

  • Mulberry: 298.44 ‘000 kg

Assam silk is widely exported to countries like Japan, the USA, and parts of Europe, enhancing the state’s global footprint.

5. Handloom and Textiles: Weaving a Global Presence

Handloom is deeply rooted in Assam’s cultural identity. Products like cotton, silk, and khadi textiles are exported to various parts of the world. The state’s weaving communities have been empowered through government initiatives, which have increased the production and export potential.

Key Stats

• Value of Production (2022-23): ₹1,934.85 lakh​

• Exported Products: Cotton textiles, Eri shawls, and handwoven products

These handwoven treasures are marketed through fairs and exhibitions, promoting Assam’s craft to a global audience.

6. Khadi and Village Industries: Tradition Meets Trade

Khadi and village industries play a vital role in Assam’s rural economy. Products like pottery, fruit preservation items, and agarbatti are exported, bringing in significant revenue. The government promotes these industries through fairs and exhibitions, supporting local artisans.

Key Stats

• Production and Sale (2022-23): Khadi industry reported a production value of ₹1,934.85 lakh​

• Exported Products: Cane and bamboo products, hand-crafted pottery, and incense sticks

These exports help in sustaining the rural economy and promoting Assam’s craftsmanship globally.

7. Spices and Horticultural Products: The Aroma of Assam

Assam’s fertile soil produces a variety of high-demand spices like ginger, turmeric, and ghost pepper. These spices are known for their organic quality, making them a favorite in international markets.

Key Stats

• Horticultural Crops: Ginger, turmeric, black pepper, ghost pepper

• Major Export Destinations: Europe, Middle East, and Southeast Asia

With the growing demand for organic products, Assam’s spices are one of the top export products of Assam and have significant growth potential for the future.

8. Processed Food and Agro-based Products

With a rise in the global preference for healthy snacks and organic products, Assam’s processed food industry has witnessed substantial growth. Products like jam, jelly, pickles, and honey are exported under the “Make in India” initiative, and growing demand justifies these products as some of the top export products of Assam.

Key Stats

• Processed Products: Honey, jams, and pickles

• Export Markets: Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia

Government support and investment in food processing units have enhanced Assam’s capacity to export processed food products globally.

Bottomline

Assam’s economy is driven by a diverse range of export products, from its iconic tea and petroleum to its traditional handloom and silk. The state’s rich natural resources, coupled with the skilled labor force, have put Assam on the world map as a significant export hub. With government initiatives and industry-specific incentives, export products of Assam will be in higher demand in the coming years.

For those looking to invest, trade, or explore the export products of Assam, now is the time. The state’s strategic location, abundant resources, and robust government support make it a promising land of opportunity.