India exports 7K MT of makhana to over 20 nations in FY26

New Delhi: 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 (FY26), the government informed. 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 hile 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.