The humble makhana, also known as fox nuts, is rapidly gaining global traction. For businesses looking to explore makhana export from India, understanding current dynamics—price, demand and future outlook—is crucial. This post digs into the latest makhana export data, market drivers and how exporters can shape a solid makhana export business plan.
Global Supply & Indian Dominance
India holds an overwhelming share of the global export makhana supply. According to recent figures, India accounts for more than 90 % of worldwide shipments in this category.
Specifically, India’s value of makhana exports from India in the fiscal year 2024–25 reached around INR 255 crore (≈US$ 30.5 million), showing a growth of roughly 27 % year-on-year.
This dominance underlines the fact that any strategic move in global markets must consider India as the key origin.
Price & Export Rate Insights
Current Export Rate from India
While precise per-unit price data is scattered, shipment records show that Indian exports under HS codes such as 19041090, 21069099 and 08134090 are being tracked.
For example, older customs records list shipments of phool makhana at FOB values in USD — one case: 379.5 kg shipment at approx USD 3959.44.
So exporters can roughly calculate costs, duties, freight and margin to estimate viable rates.
Implications for Exporters
The upward trend in value means the makhana export rate from India is favourable for value-added or bulk suppliers who ensure quality and certification. However, price competitiveness, especially in major markets, demands strict control of cost and consistent supply.
Demand Trends & Export Markets
Rising Global Demand
Health-conscious consumers are driving demand for plant-based, gluten-free snacks. Makhana meets those criteria and hence global interest is increasing.
Furthermore, the shift towards ready-to-eat, flavour-added versions of fox nuts is opening larger snack markets.
Major Import Destinations
Notable markets importing Indian makhana include:
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USA
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United Kingdom
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Canada
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Australia
UAE
These markets show strong potential for growth due to consumer awareness and higher disposable income for healthy snacks.
Forecasts & Future Outlook
Industry reports suggest a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 8–9 % for makhana globally over the next few years.
Given India’s large production base and growing export value, there’s room for expansion in both volume and value. Exporters who focus on branding, traceability and value-added formats are likely to benefit most.
Building a Makhana Export Business Plan
For aspiring makhana exporter or those exploring how to export makhana, the following steps are recommended:
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Registration: Obtain your IEC (Import-Export Code) and register with relevant authorities.
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Quality & Certification: Ensure moisture levels, packaging standards and export certifications (organic, GMO-free) are in place.
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Understand Market & Price: Use makhana export data to identify price benchmarks, buyer countries and port trends.
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Supply Chain & Processing: As India produces large volumes, linking with farmers (especially in Bihar) and efficient processing will lower cost and ensure consistent quality.
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Target Markets Strategically: Evaluate demand, regulations and competition in the makhana export market for different countries.
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Value Addition & Branding: Rather than just raw nuts, consider roasted/flavoured versions or premium packaging to fetch higher margins.
Challenges and Considerations
While the outlook is positive, there are some challenges:
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Quality issues such as moisture or packaging may affect shipment rejection or reduced value.
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Mis-classification under HS codes may distort real export statistics.
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Competition from local substitutes or other snack formats may impinge on growth.
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Infrastructure and logistics for handling export-grade supply may need investment.
Conclusion
In summary, the opportunity for export of makhana from India is strong. Rising demand, favourable global health trends and India’s production edge combine to make it a promising sector. Exporters who build a clear makhana export business plan, monitor makhana export data, and focus on quality, certification and targeted markets will likely see robust returns. With proper strategy and execution, the future for Indian makhana in the international snack arena looks very bright.
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