Bulk Makhana Export Process from Bihar: A Complete Guide
- Written By:Vikrantsingh
- July 18, 2025
Bihar, the largest producer of phool makhana in India, plays a central role in the global makhana export market. With demand for export-quality makhana increasing year after year, understanding the bulk makhana export process from Bihar is vital for traders, manufacturers, and global buyers.
This blog outlines:
- The step-by-step makhana export process
- Role of Bihar in makhana cultivation and supply
- Important government bodies and schemes
- Makhana wholesale price in Bihar
- Infrastructure, packaging, and cargo norms
- Export opportunities and key challenges
The Strategic Role of Bihar in Makhana Exports
Key Makhana-Producing Regions in Bihar:
- Madhubani
- Darbhanga
- Bhagalpur
- Patna
- North Bihar districts
These districts account for over 85% of India’s makhana production, especially the famous Mithila Makhana, known for its size, taste, and nutritional value.
Makhana Wholesale Price in Bihar (2025)
Grade/Type | Wholesale Price/kg (₹) |
Standard Grade Makhana | ₹320 – ₹360 |
Premium Grade Phool Makhana | ₹400 – ₹450 |
Raw Makhana | ₹270 – ₹300 |
Roasted Makhana (Bulk) | ₹420 – ₹480 |
Export-Grade Makhana | ₹450 – ₹520 |
Makhana wholesale price in Bihar fluctuates depending on harvesting season, processing quality, and export demand.
Step-by-Step: Bulk Makhana Export Process from Bihar
1. Makhana Procurement
- Sourced from Madhubani, Darbhanga, Bhagalpur, and surrounding districts.
- Sourcing is done through:
- Farmer cooperatives
- Processing units
- Makhana mandis
- Farmer cooperatives
2. Processing and Grading
- Makhana is cleaned, dried, size-graded, and roasted if needed.
- Advanced machines like ICAR-CIPHET certified makhana processing machines are used.
- Grading is done based on:
- Size (small, medium, large)
- Quality (popped ratio, broken seeds)
- Roasting finish
- Size (small, medium, large)
3. Packaging for Export
- Export-ready packaging includes:
- 25kg and 50kg sacks for raw makhana
- Vacuum-sealed pouches for retail-ready roasted makhana
- Bulk containers for large international shipments
- 25kg and 50kg sacks for raw makhana
Packaging must follow international food-grade norms, and include labels like:
- Country of Origin: India
- Batch Number
- FSSAI & APEDA certifications
4. Export Documentation
Required export documents include:
- Import–Export Code (IEC)
- FSSAI certificate
- Phytosanitary certificate
- Commercial invoice & packing list
- Certificate of origin
5. Freight and Cargo Handling
- Sea cargo (FOB/CIF) through Kolkata or Haldia Port
- Some air cargo from Patna or Delhi
- Temperature control is ensured for roasted makhana varieties
Key Government Bodies Supporting Makhana Exports
Government of Bihar
- Promotes high-quality makhana cultivation and organized trade
- Supports processing clusters in northern Bihar
APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)
- Certifies export units
- Facilitates participation in global trade fairs
- Offers export incentives for agri-products including makhana
Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)
- Supports the farm-to-export model
- Funds setting up of processing units in districts like Patna, Darbhanga, and Madhubani
Export-Grade Makhana Standards
Specification | Requirement |
Moisture Content | <8% |
Size Uniformity | 85% consistency |
Broken Ratio | Less than 5% |
Roasting Quality | Even puff, non-burnt texture |
Foreign Matter | NIL |
Exporters must ensure uniformity, purity, and proper drying to meet the quality standards of UAE, USA, and Europe.
Top Export Markets for Makhana from Bihar
Country | Popular Product Type | Exported By |
USA | Roasted & Flavored Makhana | Private Indian Exporters |
UAE | Raw Makhana in Bulk | Direct from Madhubani Traders |
UK | Roasted Makhana Snacks | Indian Snack Brands |
Singapore | Organic, Vacuum-packed Makhana | Agri-export startups from Bihar |
Canada | Packaged Popped Makhana | Retail Exporters |
Export Value Chain of Makhana from Bihar
Farmers → Processing Units → Makhana Suppliers → Exporters → Global Distributors
- Small-scale farmers contribute to district-wise makhana production
- Processed by registered makhana producers
- Handled by major makhana companies and makhana exporters
- Moved via cargo logistics partners
The state is also pushing for a dedicated Makhana Export Board to streamline the value chain and reduce export logistics delays.
Why Bihar is India’s Makhana Export Hub
Ideal Agro-Climatic Conditions
- The Mekong Delta-like wetlands in Bihar are ideal for makhana cultivation.
High Production Capacity
- Bihar produces 90% of India’s total makhana (~90,000 MT/annum).
Skilled Labour & Traditional Know-how
- Centuries-old expertise in makhana harvesting and popping
Government Support & Infrastructure
- Makhana processing parks, export testing labs, and dedicated cargo lanes being developed.
Challenges in the Makhana Export Ecosystem
- Unorganized Makhana Trade: Still dominant in local markets
- Lack of cold storage for roasted varieties
- High Import Duties in certain countries
- Freight Fluctuations affecting FOB/CIF pricing
- Mixed Quality Batches due to improper grading
Export Growth Trends & Opportunities
- Global Makhana Market expected to grow by 11.5% CAGR (2024–2029)
- India is a top exporter of phool makhana globally
- Increasing demand for:
- Roasted makhana snacks
- Makhana powder and flour
- Premium organic makhana
- Roasted makhana snacks
Traders can bulk buy makhana from Bihar and supply to international snack brands, wellness chains, and dry fruit importers.
Bihar's Role in Bulk Makhana Exports
Bihar stands at the forefront of India’s makhana industry, offering massive opportunities for bulk export of phool makhana. With rising international demand and government-backed processing infrastructure, the state is poised to become a global hub for makhana exports.