India's journey to transform makhana (fox nuts) into a global superfood has taken a major leap forward. The Finance Bill 2025 introduced distinct HSN codes for makhana products, bringing much-needed clarity, transparency, and structure to this rapidly growing sector.
What Are the New HSN Codes for Makhana?
The Government of India has introduced the following dedicated HSN codes for makhana under Chapter 20 of the Customs Tariff:
- 20081921 – Popped Makhana (commonly known as Makhana Pool)
- 20081922 – Makhana Powder or Flour
- 20081929 – Other Makhana-Based Products
These subcategories allow for clear documentation, regulatory ease, and strategic trade analysis, both in domestic and international markets.
Why Is This a Game-Changer?
-Better Trade Visibility
Previously, makhana was lumped under generic dry fruits or cereals. This blurred the lines between product types and made export tracking difficult. The new HSN codes allow:
- Specific categorization
- Accurate customs declarations
- Streamlined export data analysis
-Boost to Export Infrastructure
With individual HSN codes, makhana exporters can now:
- Claim tariff benefits under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
- Access product-specific subsidies and export incentives
- Align with global packaging and labeling norms
-Support for Farmer Clusters
The move complements government programs like:
- PMFME (Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro food processing Enterprises)
- SFURTI (Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries)
- Formation of the Makhana Board in Bihar, the heartland of makhana cultivation
Global Market Reach & Opportunities
With this structured classification, India's makhana products are set to conquer new geographies. Here's how:
| Region | Market Trends |
|---|---|
| USA | Largest importer of popped makhana; demand growing for healthy snacks |
| UAE & Middle East | Expanding markets for roasted and flavored makhana |
| Europe | Interest in makhana powder for gluten-free and vegan products |
| Australia & Singapore | Rising niche market for Indian-origin superfoods |
The dedicated codes now make it easier to identify which product variant is performing in each market, allowing exporters to customize their offerings.
Who Benefits from the New Codes?
Exporters
- Easy documentation and logistics
- Fast customs clearance
- Better market analysis
Farmers & MSMEs
- Formalized production channels
- Opportunity to scale with quality standards
- Enhanced access to global buyers
Government & Policy Makers
- Real-time tracking of makhana trade
- Scope to design better support schemes
- Contribution to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047
Real Data: Makhana Exports Are Already Taking Off
According to recent export databases:
- Over 2,800 shipments of makhana (HSN 19041090) were exported in one year to 60+ countries
- USA, UAE, UK, Canada, and Singapore are the top five destinations
- With the new codes (20081921, 20081922, 20081929), tracking specific products will now be easier than ever
What’s Next for India’s Makhana Industry?
With makhana already receiving GI Tag recognition from Bihar, and now clear HSN categorization, India is well-positioned to:
- Increase its export volume 3x in the next 5 years
- Tap into the $40B global superfoods market
- Create thousands of rural jobs via value chain integration
Final Thoughts
India’s decision to classify makhana products under distinct HSN codes is more than a technical change—it’s a strategic move. It places makhana on the world map not just as a snack but as a health-centric, export-worthy product.
As demand for nutritious, plant-based foods rises globally, makhana—backed by structured trade systems and government support—has all the makings of India’s next big agricultural export story.
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India's Makhana Industry Gets a Boost: New HSN Codes to Power Global Trade