India ships 18 tonnes of makhana to Australia

India has shipped 18 tonnes of Mithila makhana by sea route from Bihar to Australia, the commerce ministry said on Saturday.

The consignment, sourced from makhana growers of Darbhanga district, is expected to strengthen the international presence of Bihar’s flagship GI product while creating enhanced income opportunities for farmers through export-led market access.

Bihar accounts for nearly 85 per cent of India’s Makhana production.

To further strengthen the sector, a separate HS (harmonised system) Code for makhana came into effect from July 2025.

During 2025-26, India exported more than 7,000 metric tonnes of makhana and value-added makhana products to over 20 international destinations, including the USA, the Middle East and Africa.