Patna, 22 Feb : In a significant boost to Bihar’s agri-exports, five tonnes of high-quality Mithila Makhana have been exported to Chinese firm Manjing Royal Equipment, marking China’s entry as a new trading partner for the state’s GI-tagged superfood.
The consignment was routed through the Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Bihta near Patna and flagged off by Bihar Agriculture Minister Ram Kripal Yadav. The export was facilitated by the Bihar State Fishermen’s Cooperative Federation (COFFED) with support from Gujarat-based Root2Leaf Organic LLP.
Describing the development as historic, Yadav said, “The export of five tonnes of Makhana to China is a historic achievement, made possible due to the state government’s pro-farmer policies, quality of the produce, and hard work of farmers.”
Bihar’s makhana is already exported to countries including the United States, Australia, Canada, the UAE, Belgium, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, among others. Officials said 50 to 60 containers are shipped every month, and total exports are expected to touch 30,000 tonnes this year amid rising global demand.
COFFED Managing Director Rishikesh Kashyap said the growing exports reflect international recognition of the hard work and quality standards maintained by makhana-producing fishermen. “Exports of Makhana to various countries are recognition of makhana-producing fishermen’s hard work and their adherence to quality,” he said.
“COFFED is committed to establishing Bihar’s products in the international market. In the coming years, the export of makhana, fish products, and other agricultural products will be further increased,” Kashyap added.
Nearly 90 per cent of the world’s makhana production comes from Bihar, particularly from districts such as Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Katihar, Purnea, Kishanganj, Araria, Saharsha, Supaul and Madhepura. Mithila Makhana has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, further strengthening its brand value.
Officials said the expansion of exports is expected to ensure better prices for producers, generate rural employment and promote export-oriented industries in the state, benefiting over 880 cooperative societies affiliated with COFFED and thousands of fishermen and farmers.
