India is the biggest producer and exporter of Makhana, supplying it to various corners of the world. India has Exported over 25,000 Metric tonnes of fox nuts (makhana) through more than 1,100 exporters, reaching nearly 3,000 buyers across the globe. (Source APEDA)
The growing popularity of these Makhanas is due to their gluten-free nature, high protein, high fiber, and lightness, which give a sense of fulfillment to the consumer. However, this has led to a boon for India, leading to higher exports and a surplus balance of payment. But the main question, which we are going to address in today’s blog, is “How to Export Makhana from India?”
Rising Global Demand for Makhana
The rising global interest in gluten-free, high-protein, low-fat, and vegan options has fueled the demand for Makhana. Makhana market expected to grow into a ₹6,000 crore industry in the next 2–3 years, this ‘Black Diamond‘ has become a hot potato, attracting everybody join this industry. And Makhana is one of best option to replace unhealthy snacks.
Top Export Destination for Makhana
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- United Arab Emirates
Before we dig into the nitty-gritty of exporting, let me paint a global picture of the countries that are importing India’s Makhana. The key buyers for Makhana are the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the United Arab Emirates, each importing large volumes of Makhana. You will be surprised to know that the USA alone accounts for one-third of exports, worth nearly USD 48 million in 2019–20.
According to Volza’s India Export data, between November 2023 and October 2024, India exported around 4,855 shipments of Makhana. These exports were carried out by 547 Indian exporters to 1,121 buyers across various countries. These numbers reflect a growth of approximately 16% compared to the previous twelve-month period, indicating increasing global demand for Indian Makhana.
Business & Export Registration
If you think that exporting Makhana is a child’s play, then certainly you are wrong because it isn’t just about finding the right buyer, you first have to clear business and export registration procedures. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Below we have listed all the things we need to keep in India.
- Obtain an Import–Export Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade.
- Get yourself registered with APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) to export food products and claim incentives. Many buyers also require an RCMC (Registration‑cum‑Membership Certificate) from APEDA.
- Secure GST registration and an FSSAI license for food safety compliance.
Sourcing & Processing Makhana
The source of these Makhanas is Bihar’s popular community, the Mallah. As one of India’s most trusted suppliers and exporters of Makhana, Mera Kisan has become a reliable source for premium-grade export-quality of makhana/fox nuts. Working directly with farmers and traditional communities to ensure the authenticity and traceability of Makhana.
The trait of Makhana production has been passed to them by their ancestors. The production of Makhana starts in January and February, when the new crops are sprouted. Once they are fully grown, the seeds are transplanted to the pond, it takes about 2 months for them to reach this stage. It is only in April and May that these seeds are in their fully grown, fruiting stage. The harvest happens in the month of September. The final wrap-up occurs only in October when the field is prepared for the next cycle.
After getting the necessary information about the sourcing, let’s dig into the processing stage of Makhanas. After sourcing, the seeds are sun-dried, roasted, sorted, and packaged using clean, traditional methods. Makhana’s need popping, and many farmers prefer doing it over clay pots, making them a clean-energy option. Slowly and maintain the temperature, Makhana starts to pop.
Packaging & Labelling Standards
The processing stage is usually followed by quality certifications like FSSAI, HACCP, and GI tagging for Mithila Makhana to strengthen market appeal and reliability of the product.
However, passing all the stages is not an easy process because foreign nations have extremely high standards of cleanliness and packaging.
Makhana are packed in the nitrogen-infused vacuum bag, which is done according to the standards set by FSSAI with airtight seals to ensure freshness and extended shelf life. Not only this, but the packets should also list the nutritional content of the packet. Inluding other details like-
- Market Details
- Country of Origin
- Batch Number
- Production Date
- Expiry Date
- Export QR Code
- Nutritional Label
- Other certifications like Organic, GI tag, and Gluten‑Free, or whatever is required by the destination nation.
- HS Code for Makhana: 19041090
Freight and Shipping
Makhanas are generally exported via sea freight due to its non-perishable nature and bulk volume; however, if you have small volumes, they can be sent by air.
When shipping them, you have to pay attention to the following
- Choose between FOB (Free On Board), CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight), and CNF (Cost & Freight) shipping terms based on buyer preference.
- Collaborate with experienced freight forwarders who can manage cargo loading, get customs clearance, warehousing, and traceability.
- Finally, you should be able to understand port terminologies—like Bill of Lading, dock, and warehouse receipts to ease logistics.
Export Documentation Checklist
Below we have listed a complete list of export documents.
- Import Export Certificate
- GST Certificate
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Inspection or Quality Certificate
- FSSAI Certificate
- Insurance Certificate
- Phytosanitary Certificate (if required)
- RCMC for APEDA benefits
Finding Buyers for Makhana
You can find buyers through multiple channels.
- B2B Sites
- International fairs and expos are a great place to connect
- Spot common buyers from different countries
- Using online platforms like Amazon to find a buyer
- Leverage government data and sites.
Government Schemes & Export Support
- PMFME Scheme: The PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme supports small food businesses with credit-linked subsidies and technical training.
- One District One Product: It has been recognized as Bihar’s product, giving an immense boost to the value chains, branding, and processing.
- APEDA Support: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) offers guidance, export incentives, and training to promote Makhana exports. It is essential for overseas export.
- GI Tag: The GI Tag given to the Mithila Makhana offers more credibility and competitiveness in the market, creating trust among consumers.
- Makhana Board– In the Budget of 2025, the government of India announced the setup of the Makhana Board in Bihar. It will be a big step in the regulation and production of Makhana.
- Post Office Export Center—Post office export center or Daak Ghar Niryat Kendra, is an export facility for small businesses that don’t have the time or money to waste on expensive processes. This facility enables online documentation, support to exporters, and custom clearance. Bihar has 46 DNK centers. For complete Process guide of Daak Ghar Niryat Kendra Click here
Common Challenges in Makhana Export
- Unorganized Sector
- Lack of R&D on Product
- Market Awareness
- Low Production & High Prices
- Labour Intensive
- Lack of modern technology
- Lack of cold storages
- Transportation
Conclusion
Makhana in India has earned the name of being considered a black diamond and brings power to India for it to negotiate itself in the global market. However, we need to focus on more production along with setting high standards of packaging and transportation. Although the industry has multiple challenges but with, proper planning, market insights, and leveraging initiatives like APEDA and GI tagging can help exporters scale efficiently.
Interested in Wholesale or Bulk Buy Makhana?
📧Contact Mera Kisan at: info@merakisan.com
🌐 Get Free Sample Click Here
🚢 Ready to Export Makhana?
Get personalized support, documentation help, and global buyer connections.
very good efforts