India has emerged as the world’s leading exporter of makhana (fox nuts), driven by rising international demand for healthy, plant-based snacks and robust government support for the sector. Once a traditional food primarily cultivated and consumed in Bihar, makhana is now a global superfood, with exports and production scaling rapidly to meet new market opportunities.
Export Volume, Value, and Destinations
- India exported approximately 25,130 tonnes of makhana in 2023–2024, making it the top exporter globally by a significant margin.
- In 2024, makhana exports earned India $32.31 million, marking a steady increase from previous years. For February 2025 alone, exports were valued at over $3.15 million.
- The primary export destinations include:
Market Drivers and Trends
- Health and Wellness Trend: Makhana’s appeal is rooted in its nutritional profile—naturally gluten-free, low in calories, high in protein, and rich in antioxidants and essential minerals—making it popular among health-conscious consumers worldwide.
- Value Addition: Indian exporters are increasingly offering roasted, flavored, and packaged makhana (e.g., chili, cheese, herbal spices) to cater to diverse international tastes and capture higher margins.
- E-commerce Expansion: Online retail platforms have enabled direct access to global consumers, further boosting export prospects.
Key Exporters and Production Hubs
- Bihar accounts for around 85% of global makhana production, making it the heart of India’s makhana industry.
- Leading exporters include:
| Exporter Name | Share of Export Market (Feb 2025) |
|---|---|
| Shree Bhagwati Flour and Foods Pvt Ltd | 7.79% |
| Selmax Exports Pvt Ltd | 6.37% |
| Kitchen Xpress Overseas Ltd | 4.99% |
| Quality Spices and Food Exports Pvt Ltd | 3.73% |
| Qik Exports Co | 2.48% |
Government Support and Policy
- The Indian government has introduced incentives, tax rebates, and infrastructure support for makhana cultivation and processing, particularly in Bihar.
- Efforts include technological interventions, reduction of intermediaries, and improved marketing structures to enhance both domestic and export supply chains.
Opportunities and Challenges
Opportunities:
- Rising global demand for healthy snacks, especially in North America and Europe.
- Brand partnerships and collaborations with health-focused companies can boost credibility and reach.
- Product innovation and value addition (flavored, roasted, organic) open new market segments.
Challenges:
- Price fluctuations due to seasonal availability and shifting demand.
- Quality control is essential for maintaining international standards and building trust with buyers.
- Navigating trade policies and tariffs requires expertise and local partnerships in target markets.
The Road Ahead
Despite robust growth, exports currently account for only about 1% of India’s total makhana production, indicating significant untapped potential. With domestic consumption at 39,600 metric tons and production far exceeding export volumes, India is well-positioned to expand its share in the global makhana market.
The global makhana market is projected to grow from $120 million in 2024 to $192.6 million by 2030, with India poised to remain the dominant supplier.
“Makhana export from India has become an exciting opportunity due to increasing demand across the world for healthy snacks. Understanding key trends, opportunities, and challenges is vital for favorable positioning in the makhana market.”
In summary: India’s makhana export sector is on a strong growth trajectory, driven by health trends, government support, and innovative exporters. Addressing quality and supply chain challenges will be key to unlocking the full potential of this unique superfood on the global stage.