DoNER Secretary visits Tripura agar hub to address export challenges, streamline procedures, and boost agarwood industry growth. Traders highlight certification issues as government promises quick resolution to improve international trade efficiency and support local entrepreneurs.
A high-level visit to a key agarwood production zone in North Tripura has brought renewed attention to the challenges and opportunities facing the state’s growing export-oriented industry. The inspection, led by a senior official from the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), focused on improving trade efficiency and resolving long-standing bottlenecks in international shipments.
The visit took place at the Phulbari agar hub under Kadamtala in North Tripura district, a region known for its expanding agarwood plantations and processing units. The delegation examined operations at the Maman Agar Industry and nearby cultivation sites, gaining firsthand insight into production methods and supply chain gaps affecting exports.
Accompanied by officials from New Delhi, as well as representatives from regional administrative and forestry departments, the visiting team assessed the entire value chain—from plantation to processing and packaging. Local authorities, including the District Magistrate and the District Forest Officer, were present during the inspection and discussions.
Officials stated that the primary objective of the visit was to identify ways to simplify export procedures and reduce delays that have been affecting traders. The delegation began by touring agar gardens, observing tree health, resin extraction techniques, and processing practices. This was followed by an interaction session with traders, exporters, and industry stakeholders.
During the meeting, local business owners outlined several issues hindering smooth export operations. These included delays in obtaining mandatory clearances, complex documentation requirements, and inconsistencies in certification processes. Traders emphasized that such obstacles not only increase costs but also risk damaging international business relationships.
One notable case shared during the interaction involved an attempted export of 25 kilograms of agar chips to Dubai. The shipment was reportedly returned from the destination airport due to complications linked to the Government of India’s phytosanitary (PQ) clearance certification. The incident highlighted gaps in coordination between exporting agencies and regulatory authorities.
In response to these concerns, the visiting official assured stakeholders that corrective measures would be initiated promptly. He indicated that discussions with relevant government departments would be held to streamline certification processes and remove unnecessary hurdles. According to officials present, a resolution timeline of approximately 15 days has been suggested for addressing key issues raised by traders.
Industry representatives expressed cautious optimism following the visit. They noted that if procedural challenges are resolved efficiently, Tripura’s agarwood sector could significantly boost its export volume. Products such as agar chips, essential oil, and other derivatives have strong demand in international markets, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
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Experts believe that improving export mechanisms could unlock substantial economic potential for the region. The agarwood industry not only supports local entrepreneurs but also provides employment opportunities across rural areas involved in cultivation and processing.
The visit is being seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen Northeast India’s role in global trade by leveraging its unique natural resources. With targeted policy interventions and streamlined procedures, Tripura’s agarwood industry may soon achieve more consistent and profitable access to international markets.
