India’s Makhana Exports Cross 7,000 Tonnes in FY26 as GI-Tagged Mithila Makhana Gains Global Recognition

India exported over 7,000 tonnes of makhana products in FY26, as growing global demand, government support and Bihar’s GI-tagged Mithila Makhana strengthen the industry’s international presence.

India’s Makhana Exports Exceed 7,000 Tonnes in FY26

India’s makhana industry is expanding its international presence, with exports of more than 7,000 metric tonnes of makhana and value-added products reaching over 20 international markets during the financial year 2025-26 (FY26), according to the Ministry of Commerce.

The export destinations include the United States, the Middle East and Africa, demonstrating the growing acceptance of this traditional Indian food product in international markets. Increasing awareness of its nutritional value and the development of innovative makhana-based snacks and other products are creating new opportunities for the sector.

The expansion also reflects efforts to improve processing, branding and market access, helping Indian producers reach consumers beyond traditional domestic markets.

Bihar Leads India’s Makhana Production

Bihar is the principal centre of makhana cultivation in India, accounting for approximately 85% of the country’s total production. Other major producing states include West Bengal and Assam.

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or popped lotus seeds, has traditionally been consumed in India as a snack and as part of various culinary preparations. Its growing popularity among health-conscious consumers has encouraged businesses to explore new product categories and expand distribution.

India’s position as the world’s largest makhana producer provides a strong foundation for increasing exports. However, improving processing capabilities, product consistency and access to international buyers will remain important for sustaining the sector’s growth.

GI-Tagged Mithila Makhana Gains International Recognition

Mithila Makhana, which has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, is gaining recognition for its regional identity and distinctive association with the Mithila region of Bihar.

The GI designation helps distinguish the product based on its geographical origin and recognised characteristics. Greater international visibility can support its branding and help communicate its regional heritage to overseas consumers.

Growing interest in nutritious snacks and convenient food products is also creating opportunities for Mithila Makhana. Businesses are developing value-added offerings to appeal to changing consumer preferences, allowing the product to move beyond conventional consumption patterns.

Startups and Farmer-Producer Organisations (FPOs) are contributing to this transformation by supporting product development, market linkages and wider commercial participation.

Government Introduces Measures to Boost Makhana Exports

The Government of India has introduced several initiatives to strengthen the makhana industry, improve its classification in international trade and support the development of the wider value chain.

Separate HS Code for Makhana

A dedicated Harmonised System (HS) code for makhana came into effect in July 2025. This measure provides a separate classification for makhana in international trade, helping improve the identification and tracking of the product in export statistics.

A distinct trade classification can also support better monitoring of export performance and provide greater visibility into the product’s international market development.

National Makhana Board Launched in Bihar

The National Makhana Board was announced in the Union Budget 2025-26 and formally launched in Bihar on September 15, 2025.

The initiative is intended to support the organised development of the makhana sector, with attention to production, processing, marketing and exports. Institutional support can help address challenges faced by farmers and businesses while improving coordination across the value chain.

Rs. 476.03 Crore Scheme to Modernise the Makhana Industry

The government has approved the Central Sector Scheme for the Development of Makhana, with a total outlay of Rs. 476.03 crore for the period from 2025-26 to 2030-31.

The scheme aims to improve productivity, strengthen the quality of cultivation and processing, and create better opportunities for farmers and other stakeholders.

Key Focus Areas of the Scheme

The programme covers several areas essential to the long-term development of the industry:

• Research and innovation: Encouraging improved cultivation techniques and technological development.

• Quality seeds: Improving farmers’ access to suitable and quality planting material.

• Farmer training: Building knowledge of modern cultivation and harvesting practices.

• Post-harvest management: Improving handling, processing and storage to maintain product quality.

• Value addition: Supporting the development of new makhana-based products.

• Branding and marketing: Strengthening product identity and expanding market access.

• Exports and quality control: Improving the sector’s ability to meet international market requirements.

These measures are designed to modernise production, reduce inefficiencies and strengthen the competitiveness of Indian makhana in domestic and overseas markets.

FY26 and FY27 Allocations Support Sector Development

Under the development scheme, allocations of Rs. 30 crore for FY26 and Rs. 90 crore for FY27 have been approved.

The funding is expected to support activities aligned with the scheme’s objectives, including improvements in cultivation, processing, marketing and value addition. Continued investment can help farmers and businesses adopt better practices and respond to increasing demand.

For Bihar, where makhana production is concentrated, these initiatives could create opportunities to improve farmers’ earnings and expand participation in organised markets.

Future Outlook for India’s Makhana Industry

India’s makhana sector has significant potential to grow as international consumers increasingly explore nutritious snack options and businesses introduce new product formats.

The combination of Bihar’s dominant production base, GI-tagged Mithila Makhana, export market expansion and government-backed development initiatives could strengthen India’s position in the global makhana trade.

Sustained progress will depend on consistent quality, efficient processing, stronger branding and reliable access to international markets. Greater participation by startups, FPOs and farmers can further support the industry’s development.

Conclusion

India’s makhana exports exceeding 7,000 tonnes in FY26 highlight the product’s growing international appeal. With Bihar contributing nearly 85% of domestic production, GI-tagged Mithila Makhana has an important role in expanding India’s presence in global markets. Government initiatives, dedicated trade classification and financial support are expected to strengthen cultivation, processing and exports while creating opportunities to improve farmers’ incomes.