Bihar makhana reaches Greece as APEDA flags off Purnea export via Mundra-Piraeus route

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has flagged off a 1-tonne consignment of popped makhana from Purnea, Bihar, to Greece, marking another export shipment from one of India’s major makhana-producing regions.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced the shipment on 2 October 2026. The consignment will travel by sea from Mundra Port in Gujarat to Piraeus Port in Greece.

Who is behind the shipment and how will it move?

Indo Global Export of Belouri, Purnea, sourced the makhana consignment, while New Delhi-based S.S Foods Exports Pvt. Ltd. is handling the export.

The 1-tonne shipment of popped, or Phool, makhana will move through the Mundra-Piraeus maritime route, connecting Bihar’s production base with the European market.

What does the export mean for Bihar’s makhana producers?

According to the Ministry, the consignment achieved higher price realisation than prevailing domestic selling prices.

Export access can provide producers with additional markets and establish direct links between growers, processors and overseas buyers. The government has also highlighted international market access as a means of strengthening the value chain around Bihar’s makhana industry.

How significant is Bihar in India’s makhana production?

India is the world’s leading producer of makhana, with Bihar accounting for around 80–85% of the country’s production.

Makhana cultivation in Bihar covers more than 35,000 hectares across 10 districts. The sector receives technical support from Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, and the ICAR-National Research Centre for Makhana in Darbhanga.

How large are India’s makhana exports?

Bihar Agriculture Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha said India exported more than 7,000 tonnes of makhana and value-added makhana products worth approximately US$22 million during FY2025-26.

The products were exported to more than 20 international markets, reflecting growing overseas demand for Indian makhana.

Why is the European market important?

The latest shipment adds Greece to the growing list of international markets being targeted by Indian makhana exporters.

APEDA has been working to develop market linkages and connect producers and farmer groups in Bihar with overseas buyers. Expanding into European markets could give exporters additional destinations and support greater participation of Bihar’s producers in the international makhana value chain.