Assam government has rolled out a new Assam Export and Logistics Policy designed to turn the state into a key trade and transport hub for India’s Northeast. Backed by its geography — sharing borders with Bhutan and Bangladesh and access to Southeast Asia — the state government is betting big on logistics infrastructure, export incentives, and policy reforms to unlock its trade potential.
Officials say the move is part of a larger effort to align Assam’s industrial strategy with India’s Act East Policy, connecting producers in the Northeast with international markets.
Building a Logistics Backbone through Assam Export and Logistics Policy
Assam intends to expand its network of multimodal logistics parks (MMLPs) at Jogighopa, Silchar, and Guwahati as part of the new policy. For the first time in the area, these hubs will combine rail, road, air, and marine transportation systems, making it possible for cargo to travel across state and national borders more quickly and affordably.
It is anticipated that the 317-acre Jogighopa Multimodal Logistics Park will handle roughly 11 million metric tons of goods each year. Along the Brahmaputra, which currently provides more than 1,000 km of navigable rivers, the state is also concentrating on modernizing inland water transport (IWT) routes.
A senior industry department official said, “The policy is meant to cut the logistical cost burden that businesses in the Northeast face. We want Assam to be a natural gateway for exports to Bangladesh, Bhutan, and beyond.”
Boost for Exporters and MSMEs
Assam Export and Logistics Policy has implemented targeted assistance for MSMEs and small exporters, particularly in industries such as food processing, tea, bamboo products, textiles, and handicrafts. Working capital loan interest incentives, capital subsidies, and freight reimbursements are available to qualified units.
Export Promotion Industrial Parks (EPIPs) with ready-made infrastructure, warehousing, and customs clearance facilities are also suggested under the policy. These zones will help exporters with documentation management, single-location shipping, and commodities consolidation.
Additionally, local companies will gain from market access initiatives, talent development, and collaborations with organizations such as the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) and the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
Connecting Borders and Markets
Connectivity is at the heart of Assam’s new trade strategy. At important routes like Sutarkandi (Karimganj) and Darranga (Baksa), a number of border commerce centers and integrated checkpoints are being updated. It is anticipated that these corridors will increase the flow of products between Bangladesh and Bhutan.
In the meantime, air cargo facilities in Silchar and Guwahati are being modernized to handle perishable and high-value items including fisheries products, flowers, and agri-exports. The upcoming Bodoland Industrial Corridor and North East Economic Corridor will further connect Assam’s exporters to domestic ports and neighboring countries.
Digital and Green Logistics Push
Additionally, the policy pushes for the digital revolution of logistics management. A proposed governmental logistics website will allow exporters to register, track goods, reserve warehouse space, and apply for incentives online.
In terms of sustainability, the government is encouraging EV-based last-mile transportation, solar-powered warehouses, and green logistics certification for eligible companies.
Industry Response
Industry leaders see the policy as a long-awaited reform. The Assam Chamber of Commerce noted that logistics costs in the Northeast are 25–30% higher than the national average — largely due to poor connectivity and fragmented supply chains.
“Assam’s policy takes the right steps by integrating road, rail, and water routes. The Jogighopa project could be a game-changer if backed by private investment,” said R. Das, a logistics entrepreneur based in Guwahati.
However, experts also caution that the success of the policy will depend on implementation speed, private sector participation, and ease of doing business measures.
The Numbers That Matter
- Assam handles nearly 60% of Northeast India’s total export volume.
- The state’s logistics sector contributes 8–10% of its GSDP, projected to touch 14% by 2027.
- More than ₹3,500 crore has been earmarked for logistics and trade infrastructure over the next four years.
- The Jogighopa MMLP will connect directly to Haldia and Kolkata ports through rail and water routes.
Challenges on the Ground
Exporters still have to deal with issues like expensive inland freight, drawn-out customs processes, and constrained cold-chain capacity, even though the strategy has given them hope. Smaller businesses occasionally lack the experience required to manage export funding, quality certifications, and international documentation.
In order to close these gaps, the state intends to collaborate with private consultants and industry associations to assist companies in understanding compliance and obtaining federal or state subsidies.
How Cretum Advisory Can Support Exporters in Assam?
For businesses looking to benefit from the new policy, expert financial and compliance guidance will be key. Cretum Advisory helps enterprises in Assam and across India manage export compliance, taxation, and business setup under state and central trade policies.
Its core services include:
Startup & MSME Consulting – for registration, subsidy claims, and government scheme access.
GST & Tax Compliance – including GST Refunds and documentation.
Accounting & Advisory – accurate reporting and MIS for export-led businesses.
CFO Services – financial planning, forecasting, and policy-linked fund management.
Secretarial & Legal Support – from incorporation to FEMA and ROC compliance.
With a team experienced in taxation, finance, and regulatory affairs, Cretum Advisory helps exporters and MSMEs convert Assam’s new trade policy into real, measurable business growth.
FAQs
1. What does Assam Export and Logistics Policy aim to achieve?
To establish Assam as a hub for regional logistics by boosting export-driven sectors, lowering freight costs, and enhancing multimodal connectivity.
Q2. Who qualifies for rewards?
MSMEs registered in Assam that satisfy export or infrastructure requirements, manufacturers, exporters, and logistics companies.
Q3. Which industries stand to gain the most?
Key focus areas include tea, textiles, handicrafts, bamboo and cane goods, and agro-processing.
Q4. How will MSMEs get assistance?
They will get assistance via online single-window systems, reimbursement programs, and special export promotion parks.
Q5. How can Cretum Advisory help?
By handling registrations, export documentation, tax filings, financial structuring, and compliance under the policy.