Patna: Exporters of makhana—also known as fox nuts—from Bihar are bracing for a major setback after the U.S. government imposed a fresh 25% tariff on Indian agricultural imports, raising duties on makhana from 3.5% to nearly 29.5% .
Bihar produces about 85% of India’s makhana, and in 2024 exported approximately 600 tonnes to the U.S., where it has gained popularity as a healthy snack. The increased import duty is expected to raise the landed cost in U.S. markets, threatening demand and squeezing margins for Indian suppliers.
Satyajit Singh, managing director of a leading makhana exporter, said that American buyers are pressing Indian exporters to absorb the tariff increase—and reduce prices by 26%—to keep prices stable. But Singh warns this may be unsustainable for firms already operating on tight margins.
Industry analysts predict that the tariff hike could slow the momentum of positioning makhana as a global superfood, particularly in the premium health‑food segment. Exporters are now diversifying into new markets such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Europe to sustain growth.
Compounding the challenge is Bihar’s lack of export infrastructure. Despite being the top producer, much of the export processing and logistics happens outside the state, in Punjab or Assam—where cargo facilities and food processing units exist. This structural deficit makes it hard for Bihar-based growers to control value chains or negotiate better terms.
While other Bihar exports such as litchis, mangoes and turmeric may also feel the impact, makhana is seen as most vulnerable given its relatively high incidence of U.S. demand and limited alternatives.
The situation casts new importance on Bihar’s planned Makhana Board, announced in the 2025‑26 Union Budget, aimed at improving production, processing infrastructure and marketing of makhana. Its timely implementation could help buffer some of the fallout from international trade disruptions.
