Assam charts course to revitalise agarwood sector with regulatory reforms

The Assam government has announced a comprehensive strategy to modernise the agarwood sector, one of the state's traditionally significant commodities. The reform package includes measures designed to simplify existing regulatory frameworks that have long constrained industry operations, with officials targeting faster clearances and reduced bureaucratic hurdles for producers and exporters.

Cultivation and processing infrastructure form a central pillar of the proposed roadmap. State authorities plan to provide enhanced support for agarwood growers through improved extension services, research initiatives, and access to quality planting materials. The measures also focus on upgrading processing units to meet international quality standards and food safety requirements.

Export facilitation represents another key objective, with the government working to create smoother pathways for agarwood products reaching international buyers. Officials are examining trade procedures and logistics infrastructure to identify bottlenecks in the supply chain. The state currently supplies a significant proportion of India's agarwood, primarily derived from the Aquilaria malaccensis tree, which yields the fragrant resin used in perfumery, traditional medicines, and incense production.

Industry stakeholders have long advocated for policy interventions to address challenges ranging from uncertain regulatory conditions to limited market linkages. The proposed reforms reflect the government's recognition of agarwood's economic potential and its significance for rural communities engaged in cultivation and processing activities.