Makhana, often called lotus seeds or fox nuts, has become a major export and nutritional powerhouse from India. Makhana is cultivated on a large scale in Asia and is often used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The Makhana plant, scientifically known as Euryale Ferox Salisb., originates from China and Southeast Asia but is now exported across the globe.
But the question that arises for exporters is, how can we export Makhana from India? In this blog, we will explore how to export Makhana from India.
India Leads the Global Makhana Export Market
According to the latest export data:
- India stands tall as the No. 1 exporter of makhana in the world, accounting for 25,130 shipments in 2023–24.
- China followed with just 238 shipments, and Pakistan came third with 70 shipments, highlighting India’s overwhelming global share.
This clearly reflects India’s unmatched capacity and global demand for its makhana exports.
Top Export Categories of Makhana
India’s makhana exports are classified under many HS codes, with the most prominent ones being:
- 19041090 – Prepared foods obtained by swelling cereals or cereal products
- 21069099 – Other food preparations not elsewhere specified
- 08134090 – Other dried fruits
These categories highlight the variety in which makhana is processed and shipped, catering to both the snack and health food markets abroad.
What is the reason for the high demand for Makhana export from India?
Did you know? Makhana is a nutritious food rich in nutrients like magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, and fiber, and a few decades ago, it was mostly consumed as a food for local and religious purposes. In Indian households, it played an important role in important religious rituals.
India has a demand for makhana exports for many reasons, like:
- Health benefits
- Vegetarian protein
- Exotic allure
- Government initiatives
- Production capacity
- Export opportunity
Thus, while planning the business strategy of Makhana export from India, traders should be aware of these important elements. In the previous years, lotus seeds, also known as Makhana, have almost disappeared from various parts of the world.
Production of Makhana in India
Bihar is the world's largest producer of makhana, accounting for over 90% of global production, with 75 to 85% of India's fox nuts (Makhana) coming from this region. In addition to India, several other nations, including China, Japan, Korea, Bangladesh, Russia, and others, also cultivate makhana in its wild form.
| State | Area Under Cultivation (Ha) | Production (MT) |
| Bihar | 12,000 | 96,000 |
| Jharkhand | 1,000 | 8,000 |
| Uttar Pradesh | 500 | 4,000 |
| Other States | 500 | 4,000 |
| Total | 15,000 | 120,000 |
Why is Makhana Export from India profitable?
Due to its increasing demand in the global market, the export of Makhana from India has become a lucrative business for exporters globally.
First, let's analyze the Makhana export data table.
| Makhana exports | Makhana export data from India (value) |
| Total Makhana Shipments (Tonnes) | 25,130 |
| Number of Makhana Exporters | 1,123 |
| Number of Makhana Buyers | 2,969 |
The above table represents the total Makhana export from India valued at 25,130 million metric tons. Also, the Indian makhana exporters are 1,123, while the total number of buyers is 2969.
Understanding the Makhana Export Data
Let's break down the export data for a clearer picture of how profitable this trade has become.
- Total Makhana Shipments (Tonnes): 25,130 million metric tons
- Number of Makhana Exporters: 1,123
- Number of Makhana Buyers: 2,969
According to the latest data, India exports 25,130 million metric tons of makhana to 2,969 buyers worldwide and more than 1,123 exporters. This demonstrates how much demand there is for this product globally.
Global Market for Makhana
India supplies most of the world's makhana, making it the world's top exporter. The top markets for Indian makhana include the United States, Canada, and Australia, where health-conscious consumers are increasingly incorporating this superfood into their diets.
According to makhana export data, the top three nations involved in makhana exports are:
- India – Leading the market with 25,130 shipments
- China – In second place with 238 shipments
- Pakistan – With 70 shipments545
Top 10 Destinations for Export of Makhana From India
The updated list of top nations that import makhana from India are as follows:
- USA
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- UAE
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Germany
- Southeast Asia
- European Union
Makhana is a popular snack from India that is both nutritious and versatile. It’s benefits have been acknowledged by many countries. India is one of the major exporters of makhana to the United States. Makhana, which has low calorie content and many health benefits, is becoming more and more popular as people are currently looking for new and healthy snack options.
On the other hand, visit tradologie.com to learn more about the international Makhana export business.
Top 10 Makhana Exporters in India
The list of prominent exporters of makhana in India is given below :
- Cilantro Food Products Private Limited
- Shree Shyam Impex
- Nathubhai Cooverji and Sons
- House of Pura LLP
- Al Shadik Export
- Saksham Food
- Mithila Makhana Udhyog
- Satviki Exports Private Limited
- Dev Exims
- Radhe Radhe Enterprises
Procedure To Export Makhana From India?
Understanding the nuances of the production process is the first step towards adopting a systematic approach for Makhana export from India. Makhana cultivation requires several processes from seed preparation to packing. As an exporter, it becomes your responsibility to ensure that the safety and quality of your goods are at par with global standards.
The following are the basic procedures for exporting makhana from India:
- Get your business registered and obtain an IEC number.
- Find and negotiate with buyers.
- Ensure quality and certification.
- Apply for an export license and choose the relevant shipment option.
- Clear Customs and Provide Documents
Conclusion :
Exporting makhana from India can be a lucrative endeavor because of the growing global demand for the product. Indian exporters can successfully find and target Makhana importer countries by using export-import data and the suggested methods, ensuring the success of their Makhana exports.
Whether you need the most recent information on makhana export from India, makhana exporters in India, makhana export data from India, or the HS Code for makhana, tradologie.com can help to develop a makhana export business plan for your company to deal in the international trade sphere and comprehend the market. Register now at www.tradologie.com.
