INDIAN AGARWOOD (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Environment)

Context: India has successfully blocked the inclusion of Aquilaria malaccensis (agarwood) in the Review of Significant Trade (RST) under CITES, enabling the establishment of a new export quota.

Agarwood

• About: It is also known as oud, aloeswood, or gaharu, is a highly valuable and fragrant resinous wood formed in the heartwood of Aquilaria trees.
• Characteristics: The Aquilaria tree is an evergreen species that can grow up to 40 meters in height.
• Resin Production: Agarwood is produced when Aquilaria trees are infected by the mold Fusarium solani, which prompts the tree to produce a dark aromatic resin.
• Geographical Distribution: The tree is native to South and South-East Asia, including countries such as India , Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Thailand.
• Growth in India: Agarwood grows wild primarily in protected areas of the Northeast. Export was banned until November 2021, but re-export has since been allowed.
• Uses: Agarwood is valued for its aromatic and medicinal properties and is used in making incense sticks, essential oils, and perfumes.
• Conservation Status

o IUCN Red List: Threatened

o CITES: Appendix II of CITES since 1995