A pack of foxnuts (Makhana) weighing about 25 grams, which previously cost $2, has now increased to $4 in the US due to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. This has impacted household budgets, with a 50% tariff on Indian imports leading to a 40% drop in shipments to the US, as reported by Al Jazeera. Despite this, Indian foxnut exporters are exploring alternative markets to mitigate the impact.
According to a report, a Denver-based leather garment trader noted a significant rise in his monthly grocery budget from $500 to $900, attributing it to the price surge in foxnuts or Makhana. However, amidst the challenges, there is optimism as Indian fox nuts are gaining traction in new markets and witnessing a surge in demand due to their perceived health benefits.
Indian foxnut exporters are diversifying their markets and observing increased interest from countries like Spain and South Africa, driven by the Indian diaspora and the growing awareness of the nutritional value of fox nuts. In the fiscal year 2024–25, India exported around 800 metric tonnes of foxnuts to various countries, including Germany, China, the US, and the Middle East, with the US accounting for half of these exports.
Satyajit Singh, the owner of Shakti Sudha Agro Ventures, a major player in India’s foxnut exports, highlighted the sector’s potential for growth. Singh emphasized the need to raise awareness about foxnuts both domestically and internationally to tap into the market’s vast opportunities. The Indian government has established a Makhana Board with an initial budget of Rs 1 billion to streamline the value chain, enhance quality standards, and facilitate exports.
