Bihar emerges as key hub as global and domestic interest surges
The price of makhana (fox nuts) has surged by nearly 32% in the past ten days, driven by strong demand from both domestic and international markets. The rates have climbed from ₹950 per kg in January to ₹1,250 per kg, according to traders and suppliers.
The spike follows Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s recent Union Budget announcement on February 1, which emphasized makhana and proposed the establishment of a dedicated Makhana Board in Bihar. The state accounts for over 90% of India’s total makhana production, and the proposed board aims to boost cultivation and streamline marketing efforts.
Since the budget announcement, makhana suppliers have reported a significant rise in inquiries and orders, particularly from international markets such as the UK, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and South Africa. Domestic markets, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and South India—regions with traditionally lower consumption—are also witnessing growing interest.
“We have finalized a deal to export 900 kg of roasted makhana to Singapore,” said P. Kumar, spokesperson for Madhubani Makhana, a Bihar-based wholesaler. “The budget focus has amplified discussions around makhana, attracting more buyers.”
Traders believe that 2025 could be the breakthrough year for makhana, mirroring the success of millets, which saw heightened demand in 2023 and 2024. Bihar’s ten leading makhana-producing districts contribute to an annual national yield of approximately 10,000 tonnes.
Rising Global Interest and Supply Challenges
Prateek Bhagchandka, co-founder and CEO of makhana brand MOM-Meal of the Moment, noted an increase in global inquiries. “We are receiving strong leads from the UK and other international buyers. The budget announcement has brought makhana into global conversations, particularly among the Indian diaspora,” he said.
However, with the next makhana harvest cycle scheduled for July, traders anticipate continued price volatility in the short term. Market analysts predict stabilization in the mid-to-long term as production scales up to meet rising demand.
Makhana prices have been steadily climbing over the past four to five years, fueled by shifting consumer preferences toward healthier snacks. The product received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2022, further boosting its market value.
Abhinav Jha, founder of Samastipur-based supplier TirhutWala, reported a sharp increase in daily inquiries, which have tripled post-budget. “We are seeing orders from unexpected regions like Eswatini in South Africa and Sri Lanka,” he said.
Industry experts believe the government’s push will attract new entrepreneurs to the makhana sector. “The finance minister’s emphasis on makhana will help organize the industry and unlock fresh investment opportunities,” said Tarun Satsangi, Associate Director of Commodity Research at Univest, a commodity brokerage firm.
With rising awareness and government backing, the makhana industry is poised for substantial growth in the coming months.