Assam has achieved a major milestone in its agricultural export sector with the first international shipment of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Karbi Anglong ginger to London (UK).
A 1.2 metric tonne consignment of premium fresh ginger, sourced directly from farmers in Karbi Anglong district. This marks the first time the GI-tagged Karbi Anglong ginger has entered the UK market, opening global trade opportunities for Assam’s agricultural produce.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
| Product | GI-tagged Karbi Anglong Ginger |
| Export Destination | London, United Kingdom |
| Quantity | 1.2 metric tonnes |
| Flagged Off From | Krishi Bhawan, Guwahati |
| Facilitating Agency | Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) |
| Industry Partner | NextOn Foods Pvt. Ltd. |
| Significance | First export of GI-tagged ginger from Assam to the UK |
The export represents a significant step toward enhancing international market access, brand value, and income opportunities for farmers in Assam.
Significance of Export
- Opens global market opportunities for Assam’s agricultural products.
- Enhances international visibility of GI-tagged produce from Northeast India.
- Strengthens the “Brand Assam” agricultural identity.
- Improves farmers’ livelihoods through higher-value exports.
- Demonstrates the impact of government efforts to promote agri-exports and value addition.
Karbi Anglong Ginger
Karbi Anglong ginger is a high-quality ginger variety cultivated primarily in the Karbi Anglong district of Assam.
Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
| Region | Karbi Anglong district, Assam |
| Cultivation System | Traditional Jhum and Tila cultivation |
| GI Tag Year | 2015 |
| Primary Growing Area | Singhasan Hills |
Unique Properties of Karbi Anglong Ginger
This ginger variety is widely recognised for its distinctive qualities:
- Strong aromatic fragrance
- Bold flavour and rich pungency
- High essential oil content
- Minimal fibre content
- Distinct earthy flavour with spicy notes
- Known for medicinal properties
These characteristics differentiate it from other ginger varieties grown globally.
Ginger Production in Assam
Assam is among India’s major ginger-producing states.
| Indicator | Data |
| Area under cultivation | ~20,000 hectares |
| Annual production | ~1.5 – 2 lakh metric tonnes |
The fertile soil and favourable agro-climatic conditions of Northeast India make the region ideal for cultivating high-quality ginger.
India is one of the leading ginger-producing countries, along with:
- China
- Nepal
- Thailand
Geographical Indication (GI) Tag
A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products that:
- Originate from a specific geographical area
- Possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics linked to that location
GI tags can be applied to:
- Agricultural products
- Food items
- Wines and spirits
- Handicrafts
- Industrial products
Legal Framework in India
| Law | Details |
| Act | Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 |
| Purpose | Registration and protection of GI products |
| Validity | 10 years |
| Renewal | Can be renewed indefinitely |
Importance of GI Products
- Protects regional identity and traditional knowledge.
- Prevents misuse of product names.
- Enhances export potential and global recognition.
- Provides premium pricing for farmers and producers.
- Promotes rural development and local employment.