Assam’s indigenous brand of agarwood perfumes shine at trade fair
MJI Perfumes, Assam’s first indigenous brand of agar-based perfumes, has drawn significant attention at the ongoing 43rd India International Trade Fair (IITF) in the Capital.
The Assam Pavilion has become a major attraction, with visitors from across the Delhi-NCR region flocking to the stall showcasing agarwood products and their derivatives.
The man behind the success of MJI Perfumes is Jehirul Islam, a pioneer in the agarwood industry in Assam. After returning from Saudi Arabia in 2008, Dr Islam immersed himself in research on agarwood farming and has since become a leading figure in the field. His work in agarwood cultivation and oil extraction has transformed Assam into a key player in the global agar market.
“Agarwood, often called ‘liquid gold’, has immense commercial value due to its aromatic oil, which is in high demand for perfume production, particularly in the Middle East and Arab world,” said Islam. “However, when I first got involved, I found the process of producing agar oil outdated and harmful to the environment. We’ve now developed a more sustainable extraction method that reduces air pollution and produces higher-quality oil,” he said.
He is also the Chairman of the All Assam Agarwood Planters’ and Traders’ Association, and his efforts have been instrumental in legalising the agarwood trade in the region.
Agarwood, or Aquilaria malaccensis, is native to Assam and parts of Northeast India. It is valued for its fragrant oil, used in perfumes, traditional medicines and religious rituals. However, its primary use remains in the production of high-end perfumes.
“Earlier, many were hesitant to enter the agar business, but now that it’s legalised, there is a growing interest, especially among the youth. I encourage everyone to plant agar trees. With proper care, one hectare can yield up to Rs 4.32 crore in 15-16 years,” Islam said, highlighting the lucrative prospects of agarwood farming.
The Assam Government has also been supportive of the agarwood industry, implementing the Assam Agarwood Promotion Policy 2020. One of the key developments under this policy is the establishment of a state-of-the-art international trade centre in Golaghat district. Islam believes the trade centre will revolutionise the agarwood industry and significantly boost the state’s economy.
“Once the international trade centre is operational, Assam will be able to handle transactions worth Rs 50,000 crore annually. It will not only support the agarwood business, but also promote tourism and create substantial employment opportunities,” he added.
Islam’s MJI Group is also committed to the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, with its focus on ‘Make in India’ and promoting local industries. The group’s agarwood business spans cultivation, manufacturing and distillation, producing agar oil, essential oils, perfumes and oudh in Assam. “Assam and the Northeast region are rich in natural resources, but their potential is yet to be fully realised. With government support, we are poised to transform the region’s economy, especially through agar and its derivatives,” he said.
The MJI Group recently earned a significant milestone by securing the first patent in India for a unique method of producing agarwood oil. This innovation has set the company apart in the agarwood industry, both in India and internationally.
The company’s latest venture, MJI Perfumes, offers exquisite oudh-based perfumes and Indian attars. “Our goal is not only to craft exceptional fragrances, but also to celebrate the cultural and natural heritage of Assam and India,” said Islam.
Additionally, the MJI Group has ventured into the tea business, launching ‘Refresh Tea’, offering premium CTC and agarwood green tea. “Refresh Tea’s CTC is a true reflection of Assam’s tea excellence. It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a natural detoxifier, helping to cleanse your body and leave you feeling rejuvenated,” Islam added.
