India's makhana (fox nut) sector has emerged as a significant agri-food export category, with the country maintaining its position as the world's largest producer. In 2025-26, India exported 7,264.89 metric tonnes of makhana products valued at ₹19,296.08 lakh, following the introduction of specific HSN codes for accurate tracking. The United States (40%), Canada (20%), and United Arab Emirates (17%) collectively account for 77% of export volumes, though premium prices are realized in smaller markets like Germany ($26.0/kg), Nepal ($21.6/kg), and Australia ($21.0/kg).
Domestic production reached 80,590 MT in 2025-26 (Second Advance Estimates) with average productivity of 2.34 MT per hectare, up from 63,910 MT in 2024-25. Bihar dominates production with 60,000 MT output (approximately 75% of India's total) and contributes 80-85% of global supply, primarily from the Kosi basin districts of Supaul, Saharsa, and Madhepura. The domestic market has grown at 17-18% annually between 2021-22 and 2024-25, with prices increasing significantly from approximately ₹500 per kilogram during 2020-2022 to nearly ₹1,250 per kilogram in 2025 due to rising health awareness and premiumization.
The government has implemented substantial support measures including the establishment of the National Makhana Board in September 2025 and a ₹476.03 crore Central Sector Scheme for the Development of Makhana spanning 2025-26 to 2030-31. The scheme has allocated ₹30 crore for 2025-26 and ₹90 crore for 2026-27, focusing on research, quality seeds, farmer skill development, value addition, branding, and export enhancement. Under this scheme, 1,010 additional hectares have been brought under makhana cultivation, 73 hectares covered under seed production, and 8,159 farmers benefited in 2025-26.
Monthly domestic consumption of popped makhana is estimated at 3,000-3,500 metric tonnes, rising to 5,000 metric tonnes during festive periods. The organized FMCG sector accounts for 1,800-2,000 metric tonnes monthly, while loose/unorganized retail contributes 1,200-1,400 metric tonnes. The market is expected to reach ₹11,000-12,000 crore by 2029-30. The National Research Centre for Makhana (NRCM) has played a key role in developing high-yield varieties like Swarna Vaidehi and Sabour Makhana-1, distributing 15,824.1 kg of improved seeds, and training over 3,000 farmers in improved cultivation and processing techniques. Mithila Makhana has received Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognition, enhancing its market differentiation and branding potential.