The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the flag-off of 0.5 metric tonnes of GI-tagged “Salem Sago” from Salem, Tamil Nadu to Canada on February 18, 2026. This milestone marks the first international shipment of GI-certified sago from India.

The consignment was exported through SAGOSERVE, the GI Registered Holder of Salem Sago. SAGOSERVE is a cooperative society and a registered member of APEDA, representing the interests of sago producers in the region.

The Geographical Indication (GI) certification of Salem Sago highlights its unique quality, traditional processing methods, and strong linkage to the Salem region of Tamil Nadu, which is widely recognized as India’s sago hub.

In conjunction with the flag-off ceremony, APEDA organized a Buyer-Seller Meet (BSM) to promote export opportunities and facilitate direct engagement between stakeholders. The event witnessed the participation of eight exporters, providing a platform to explore new international markets and strengthen trade linkages.

Building on this achievement, a subsequent consignment of GI-tagged Salem Sago is planned for export to Germany in the near future, further expanding the global footprint of this distinctive Indian product.

The initiative underscores APEDA’s continued efforts to promote GI-tagged agricultural products in international markets, enhance value realization for producers, and strengthen India’s agri-export ecosystem.

Source - APEDA