Bihar Makhana Reaches Greece
APEDA facilitates 1 MT export from Purnea, opening international markets and creating opportunities for improved farmer realization
- 1 MT of Popped Makhana exported from Purnea to Greece.
- Shipment will travel from Mundra Port to Piraeus Port.
- Bihar contributes around 80–85% of India’s Makhana production.
- India exported over 7,000 MT of Makhana and value-added products in FY 2025–26.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 2nd Oct: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the export of 1 metric tonne of popped (Phool) Makhana from Purnea, Bihar, to Greece, strengthening international market access for one of Bihar’s key agricultural products.
The consignment, sourced by Indo Global Export, Belouri, Purnea, is being exported through S. S Foods Exports Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi. The shipment will move from Mundra Port in India to Piraeus Port in Greece.
The export has generated higher price realisation compared with the prevailing domestic market selling price, highlighting the potential of international markets to create additional value for Makhana producers. Export-oriented supply chains can also strengthen links between producers and overseas buyers.
India is the global leader in Makhana production, with Bihar accounting for around 80–85% of the country’s output. Makhana cultivation in the state covers more than 35,000 hectares across 10 districts.
The sector receives technical support from Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, and the ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana, Darbhanga.
The export consignment was flagged off in a programme chaired by Bihar Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, in the presence of APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, Director of Horticulture in Bihar’s Agriculture Department Abhishek Kumar, senior government officials and other stakeholders.
Sinha said the export marked an important milestone for Bihar’s Makhana sector. He stated that India exported more than 7,000 MT of Makhana and value-added Makhana products worth USD 22 million during FY 2025–26 to more than 20 international destinations.
He also said the Bihar government is working towards an Agri Export Policy aimed at supporting farmers and improving incomes through export promotion. Packhouses have also been developed to strengthen the Makhana export value chain.
APEDA has been supporting market linkages and exporters seeking to take Indian Makhana to international destinations. The latest shipment to Greece adds to the expansion of Indian Makhana exports into European markets.
