The Untold Story of an 18-Year-Old Entrepreneur From Assam Who Built a Global Empire in Agarwood

In the bustling lanes of Hojai, Assam, few could have predicted that a young man, barely 18, would one day become one of Southeast Asia's most prominent business tycoons. We're talking about Mr. Habib Mohammed Chowdhury, a visionary who, with sheer grit and timeless ambition, transformed the humble agarwood trade into a multi-industry global empire — HSMM Group of Companies. Today, he’s not just the Founder Chairman & Managing Director of the HSMM Group, but also the Chairman of the ASEAN India Business Council (Lao PDR Chapter). But before all the awards and international acclaim, there was a story — one of bold decisions, cross-border dreams, and unmatched determination. Curious how it all began? Let’s rewind to 1989.

Success Stories of Indian Entrepreneurs: Mr. Habib Mohammed Chowdhury

Born in 1971 in Hojai, Assam, Mr. Habib Mohammed Chowdhury was no ordinary teenager. With a sharp eye for opportunity and an unshakeable curiosity about the world, he chose to leave college at just 18 and moved to Dubai in 1989. His mission? To enter the enigmatic and fragrant world of agarwood trading — a move that even today might seem risky. But for Mr. Habib, it was a calling. From humble beginnings in the desert city, he laid the foundation of what would later evolve into the HSMM Group. After years of groundwork, he shifted base to Laos in 1998, founding the Lao Agar International Development Co. Ltd. in Vientiane. This decision wasn’t just timely, it was revolutionary, turning the HSMM Group into one of the largest agarwood producers in Southeast Asia.

Over the years, HSMM Group diversified far beyond just agarwood. With operations now spanning agarwood plantations, oil extraction, perfume, mining, and general trading, the group became a global powerhouse. Six key companies came under its umbrella, each making waves in its industry: HS International Sole Co. Ltd., HSMM Mining Co. Ltd., HSMM Fragrance Co. Ltd., Razaphe Agar Factory, HSMM General Trading Co. Pvt. Ltd., and of course, the flagship Lao Agar International. With mining concessions in Xieng Khouang Province and a mission to plant one million agarwood trees — 400,000 of which are already flourishing — this wasn’t just business; it was ecological entrepreneurship at its best.

His leadership also played a pivotal role in diplomacy and international collaboration. In 2010, Mr. Habib founded the Indian Chamber of Commerce (INCHAM) in Lao PDR with the blessings of Indian diplomats and led it for three terms. He brought India’s “Look East Policy” to life through strategic partnerships, high-level visits, and cultural exchanges. His efforts were officially recognised when he became the first Indian entrepreneur to receive the prestigious “Cross of Labour” and “Cross of Friendship” medals from the Lao PDR government in 2013. He’s been honoured time and again in both India and Laos, not just for his business excellence, but for bridging two cultures with commerce and compassion.

What sets Mr. Habib apart isn’t just his business acumen. It’s his heart. A true philanthropist, he established the JF Foundation in India and the HSMM Foundation in Laos, championing community upliftment, education, and healthcare. Whether sponsoring the Lao Football Federation or supporting youth development in Northeast India, Mr. Habib walks the talk of giving back. In 2016, he was appointed as the first Chairman of the ASEAN India Business Council (Lao Chapter), representing Indian entrepreneurship on one of the biggest regional stages.

Today, with a legacy built over decades and a business empire that continues to grow, Mr. Habib Mohammed Chowdhury is not just a name — he’s an institution. From the narrow alleys of Hojai to the boardrooms of ASEAN summits, his story inspires thousands across borders. He dreamt big, moved fast, and stayed rooted — all while taking Assam’s essence global through the rich, mystical fragrance of agarwood.

Global entrepreneurs of India

Whenever you think about entrepreneurs in India, you usually come across some familiar names like Ratan Tata, Mukesh Ambani, or Narayana Murthy. But if you're looking for a name that rose from a small town in Assam and built a global empire with nothing but vision, courage, and relentless drive—Habib Mohammed Chowdhury is one you must know. His inspiring journey from a college dropout to the Founder Chairman & Managing Director of HSMM Group of Companies proves that the best startup ideas in Assam don’t just stay local—they can take over the world. If you're dreaming of building your own business startup, his story is all the motivation you need.