Centre Approves Guwahati Airport as Export Hub for Assam's Agarwood Chips and Oil

**Guwahati, November 1, 2026:** The Central Government has approved Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati as an official export point for agarwood chips and agarwood oil, opening new opportunities for Assam's traditional fragrance industry. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced the approval on October 31, following a request from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The decision is expected to simplify export procedures and improve international market access for farmers, producers and exporters in Assam and the wider Northeast. **Boost for Assam's Agarwood Industry** Agarwood is a valuable fragrant wood obtained from trees belonging to the Aquilaria genus. It is widely used in perfumes, incense, essential oils and traditional fragrance products. Assam is one of India's major agarwood-producing regions, with the industry supporting thousands of farmers and workers. According to the Assam Chief Minister's Office, the state accounts for approximately 81 per cent of India's agarwood resources. **New Opportunities for Exporters** The approval of Guwahati Airport as an export point is expected to reduce logistical difficulties for businesses involved in agarwood production and trade. Previously, exporters faced additional transportation and logistical requirements when sending products to international markets. The new arrangement is expected to make international shipments more convenient and improve access to overseas buyers. **Assam's Recent Export Achievement** In October 2026, Assam exported 123 kg of agarwood chips to Dubai. The shipment was considered an important development for the state's efforts to expand international markets for its traditional agarwood industry. The latest airport approval is expected to support further export opportunities and improve the competitiveness of Assam's local products in international markets. The decision could also strengthen the state's agricultural and fragrance-based businesses while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs.