First Export of GI-Tagged Joha Rice from Assam to UK and Italy

Key Takeaways

First export of GI-tagged Joha rice from Assam to international markets.

Collaboration between APEDA and local government.

Boosts farmer incomes and promotes local agriculture.

Joha rice recognized for its quality and flavor .

Potential for further export growth in the region.

New Delhi, March 13 (NationPress) The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has successfully facilitated the inaugural export of 25 metric tonnes of GI-tagged Joha rice from Assam to both the United Kingdom and Italy, as announced by the Commerce Ministry on Friday.

This significant consignment was dispatched on March 12, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Government of Assam.

Officials emphasized the region's substantial potential for enhancing export activities while simultaneously boosting farmers’ incomes.

APEDA has been at the forefront of promoting the global recognition of Joha rice.

Previously, the authority facilitated the export of one metric tonne of this GI-tagged rice to Vietnam and two metric tonnes to five Middle Eastern nations, including Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

The export initiative was officially launched by Assam Agriculture Minister Atul Bora, who was joined by notable figures such as Agriculture Production Commissioner Aruna Rajoria, State Project Director of ARIAS Society Virendra Mittal, Director of Agriculture Uday Praveen, and APEDA official Saurabh Srivastava, along with representatives from the Plant Quarantine Department and APEDA’s Regional Office in Guwahati.

This shipment is managed by APEDA-registered exporter Safe Agritrade Pvt Ltd, with processing and packaging conducted at Pratik Agro Food Processing.

The ministry indicated that this initiative is part of APEDA’s broader strategy to promote India’s GI-tagged agricultural products on a global scale, strengthen market linkages between producers and international buyers, and extend agricultural exports from the North Eastern Region, all while ensuring enhanced price realization for farmers.

Joha rice, an indigenous aromatic variety from Assam, earned the Geographical Indication status in 2017. Renowned for its unique fragrance, fine grain texture, and rich flavor, this rice variety is gaining traction in both premium domestic and international markets.

In Assam, Joha rice is cultivated over approximately 21,662 hectares, with an estimated production of about 43,298 metric tonnes projected for FY 2024–25. Key producing districts include Nagaon, Baksa, Goalpara, Sivasagar, Majuli, Chirang, and Golaghat.

Point of View

Particularly for the North Eastern Region. By successfully promoting GI-tagged products like Joha rice, India is positioning itself as a competitive player in the global agricultural market, which can potentially transform the economic landscape for local farmers.

NationPress

29 Jun 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GI-tagged Joha rice?

GI-tagged Joha rice is an aromatic rice variety from Assam that has received Geographical Indication status, ensuring its authenticity and promoting its unique qualities.

Why is the export of Joha rice significant?

The export signifies India's efforts to enhance its agricultural exports, improve farmer incomes, and promote indigenous agricultural products globally.

What are the key benefits of exporting GI-tagged products?

Exporting GI-tagged products helps in establishing market linkages, ensuring better price realizations for farmers, and boosting local economies.

What regions in Assam are known for Joha rice production?

Key districts in Assam for Joha rice cultivation include Nagaon, Baksa, Goalpara, Sivasagar, Majuli, Chirang, and Golaghat.

How much Joha rice is produced in Assam?

The estimated production of Joha rice in Assam for FY 2024–25 is approximately 43,298 metric tonnes.