The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the export of 1 metric ton of Popped (Phool) Makhana from Purnea, Bihar to Greece, marking an expansion of international market access for Bihar's traditional Makhana. The consignment was sourced by Indo Global Export, Belouri, Purnea, and is being exported to Greece through S. S Foods Exports Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, with the shipment moving from Mundra Port in India to Piraeus Port in Greece.
This export has resulted in higher price realization for farmers compared to prevailing domestic market prices, demonstrating the potential of international markets to create additional value for Makhana producers. India is the global leader in Makhana production, with Bihar contributing approximately 80-85% of the country's production across over 35,000 hectares spanning 10 districts. The sector receives technical support from Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, and ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga.
During the flag-off ceremony chaired by Bihar Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, it was revealed that India exported more than 7000 metric tons of makhana and value-added makhana products valued at USD 22 million during FY 2025-26 to over 20 international destinations. The Government of Bihar is developing an Agri Export Policy aimed at supporting farmers and improving their incomes through export promotion, including the development of packhouses to support the Makhana export value chain. These efforts are helping connect Makhana producers in Bihar with international demand while creating opportunities for improved farmer realization and greater participation of producer groups in the export value chain.