INDIAN AGARWOOD (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Environment)

News-CRUX-10     31st July 2024        
QEP Pocket Notes

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

QEP Pocket Notes