Assam’s Baksa Honey Enters US Market With First-Ever Export Consignment

In a major boost to India’s rural export ecosystem, the first-ever consignment of honey from Assam’s Baksa district has been successfully exported to the United States , marking a significant milestone for the state’s apiculture sector.

The shipment, comprising around 20 metric tonnes of honey , was flagged off from Guwahati under the facilitation of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority ( APEDA ), as part of the Centre’s One District One Product (ODOP) initiative.

The export was undertaken by APEDA-registered company Salt Range Foods Pvt Ltd , with the consignment processed and packed at its facility in Guwahati. The flag-off was carried out by Aruna Rajoria , Commissioner and Secretary of the Agriculture Department and Agriculture Production Commissioner.

Officials said Baksa honey is sourced from an eco-friendly and pesticide-free environment , making it highly valued for its near-organic quality . The product reflects the region’s rich biodiversity and long-standing tradition of beekeeping in Assam.

Under the ODOP framework, Baksa honey has been identified for its strong potential in value addition, livelihood generation, and export growth , especially for farmers and small beekeepers in the region.

Assam is a key honey-producing state in India, supported by abundant forest resources and favourable ecological conditions. According to the National Horticulture Board, the state produced approximately 1,650 metric tonnes of honey in 2023–24 .

Major honey-producing districts include Baksa, Kokrajhar, Chirang, Udalguri and Tamulpur , all located in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

The APEDA has played a crucial role in enabling the export by strengthening infrastructure support , including testing facilities and laboratory equipment at processing units to ensure compliance with international food safety and quality standards .

Officials noted that the initiative is expected to significantly benefit rural communities, with farmers receiving nearly 43% higher price realisation compared to local farm gate prices, thereby improving incomes and strengthening rural livelihoods.

The export is being seen as a key step in positioning Assam’s honey on the global map and expanding India’s agri-export footprint.