India exported over 7,000 metric tonnes of Makhana to over 20 global destinations in FY26
New Delhi, Aug 8
India exported more than 7,000 metric tonnes of Makhana and value-added Makhana products to over 20 international destinations, including the US, the Middle East and Africa, in last fiscal, the government informed on Saturday.
Bihar accounts for nearly 85 per cent of India's Makhana production. To further strengthen the sector, a separate HS Code for Makhana came into effect from July last year under the Finance Bill, 2025.
In a new feat, APEDA facilitated first-ever commercial sea shipment of 18 metric tonnes of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana from the BIADA Industrial Area in Bihta, Bihar, to Australia.
The consignment, sourced from Makhana growers of Darbhanga district, is expected to strengthen the international presence of Bihar's flagship GI product while creating enhanced income opportunities for farmers through export-led market access, according to Commerce Ministry.
The initiative has enabled farmers to realise nearly 18 per cent higher returns than prevailing market rates, highlighting the benefits of export-oriented value chains and direct market linkages.
The export is expected to strengthen the international presence of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana, create sustainable export opportunities for Bihar's Makhana sector and contribute to higher farmer incomes.
State Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha said Makhana is the identity of Bihar and greater participation of Bihar-based exporters in international trade would enable farmers to secure better price realisation.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining quality standards to meet global market requirements and stated that the Government of Bihar is continuously working to strengthen the Makhana value chain by supporting growers, processors and exporters.
The minister further said that all necessary support would continue to be extended to the Phori community, whose traditional skills are integral to Makhana processing.
The first-ever sea shipment of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana to Australia reflects the growing global demand for Bihar's agricultural products and opens new opportunities for farmers and exporters, he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone from Bihar, this makes my heart swell with pride! Mithila Makhana getting GI tag recognition and now reaching Australia by sea - it's a big leap. The Phori community's traditional skills deserve all the support. Maybe now people will stop underestimating Bihar's potential! 🙌
Interesting to see India's agricultural exports diversifying beyond traditional items. The separate HS code for Makhana is a smart move - it gives the product its own identity in international trade. The 18% premium for farmers shows how value-chain improvements can directly benefit producers.
Great initiative! But I hope the government also focuses on the middlemen issue in Makhana trade. Many small farmers in Darbhanga and Madhubani still struggle to get fair prices despite these export deals. The 18% better returns mentioned here should reach the actual growers, not just the big exporters. Just saying what many of us are thinking.
Makhana is making waves globally! The sea shipment to Australia is a good example of how logistics can be optimized - sea route reduces costs compared to air freight. The GI-tagging really adds value. Would love to see more value-added products like roasted and flavored Makhana being exported too.
This is wonderful! Makhana is such a healthy snack - high in protein and low in calories. It's good to see our traditional foods getting international recognition. The support for the Phori community is crucial - their skills in processing Makhana are truly unique. A small suggestion though: we should also promote Makhana-based products like flour and snacks in
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