APEDA facilitated the export of 0.5 MT of GI-tagged Salem Sago from Salem, Tamil Nadu to Canada. It was the first direct export consignment shipped by the GI Authorised User, SAGOSERVE, after the product received its Geographical Indication tag in March 2023. The development marks the growing role of GI certification in improving market access for traditional agricultural products.
Salem Sago and Its GI Status
Salem Sago, also known as tapioca sago or sabudhana, is derived from tapioca roots. Salem is widely recognised as the centre of India’s sago and starch industry. The GI registration was secured by SAGOSERVE under the Government of Tamil Nadu in March 2023. The tag helps protect the identity of the product and promotes its distinct regional reputation.
Role of SAGOSERVE
The Salem Starch and Sago Manufacturers’ Service Industrial Cooperative Society Limited, known as SAGOSERVE, has 334 registered member-manufacturers. It supports marketing of sago and starch produced by its members. It also provides warehousing, quality improvement measures, and support for better tapioca cultivation and sago processing standards. The society plays a key role in linking farmers and processors with wider markets.
Export Significance
The direct export to Canada is for price realisation and income prospects of tapioca farmers. The sago industry in Salem supports many farmers, including tribal communities engaged in tapioca cultivation. Earlier, Salem Sago was mainly supplied to traders in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan and West Bengal, and exported through other channels to countries such as the USA, UK, Vietnam and Singapore. This shipment marks a shift towards direct international market access for the producer society.
APEDA and GI-Based Agri Exports
APEDA has been promoting GI-tagged products as part of its export strategy. The aim is to create direct market linkages between producer societies and overseas buyers. An export-focused programme was also held in Salem to explore opportunities in other key markets. Such initiatives are expected to strengthen value-added agri exports and encourage more direct consignments in the near term.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026