Introduction: Bihar’s Expanding Role In International Exports 

Export from Bihar is among India’s most culturally rich and agriculturally dominant states and has become an important player to surpass India’s expectation of an ever-growing export economy. The expansive and fertile Gangetic plains and traditional handicrafts give an exceptional value to the export from Bihar sector, and that is how today it has an exceptional value in distant overseas markets. The export from Bihar sector has grown phenomenally, and so has the trade and economy of India. 

Makhan and Litchis, along with Maddhubani Paintings, along with some other agro products, have increasingly grown the economy and also the recognition of Bihar within the export business globally. With the government assistance and rising concern in the economy, the quality and uniqueness of the products, along with the recognition they have gained, are seemingly increasing. 

Geographical Overview And The Economy of Bihar

Bihar enjoys a climatically favorable position for the cultivation of agriculture. The fertile soil of eastern India, along with the ports of West Bengal, makes the state an attractive geography for agribusiness. Bihar has internationally renowned exotic fruits and cash crops, along with milk products. Other than agriculture, Bihar is also globally renowned for silk weaving, along with traditional crafts such as the mat of the field and the Madhubani art.

This is why the exports from Bihar are of crucial importance to the country’s trade map. whether it’s staple foods such as rice or pulses or even cultural handicrafts. The exports from Bihar are sustaining its much-needed trade routes.

Bihar Major Export Hubs

  • Muzaffarpur-Famous for exports of Shahi Litchis.
  • Madhubani and Darbhanga – World Capitals of Silk Weaving and Madhubani Paintings.
  • Sitamarhi and Samastipur – The Region for Makhana Cultivation.
  • Bhagalpur – Silk, jute, and other crafts.
  • Patna and Nalanda – Livestock farming, dried and packed foods, and even sweets.

These centers help streamline export activities in the region by offering unprocessed and semi-finished goods.

Bihar Principal Export Commodities

Here are more than 20 of the major exports of Bihar that help put Bihar on the world map.

1. Makhana export from Bihar

Bihar is known to be the largest producer of makhana, also known as fox nuts, in the world. Makhana exports  to the USA, UK, Japan, and the UAE have increased dramatically as it is seen as a new superfood. These superfood nutrients and fox nuts are enjoyed in a plethora of snacks, confectionery, and cereals. Thanks to high-quality production and the GI tag, the fox nut exporters from Bihar are beginning to dominate the world, especially the markets that are health-conscious.

  • Export Value & Share: over 120 million dollars annually.
  • Highlighted Import Countries: United States of America, United Kingdom, Japan, and United Arab Emirates.
  • Usage / Industry: Snacks, confectionery, health foods.
  • Global Demand Trend: Increasing superfoods for weight control and general well-being.
  • Bihar’s Competitive Advantage: Bihar ranks first in the world in the production and makhana exports of makhana. Because of the organic quality and GI-tag status, Makhana Exports are continuously increasing.

2. Shahi Litchi export from Bihar

Muzaffarpur’s Shahi Litchi is well-known for its sweetness combined with its unique fragrance, making it one of the rare GI-tagged fruits. It is mostly sent to the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Europe, where people eat it fresh and turn it into juices, jams, and candies. This seasonal fruit is one of the most demanded products during the warmer months of summer. As a prominent export from Bihar, Shahi Litchi is well poised to be marketed overseas due to its high brand value in the niche fruit segment.

  • Export Value & Share: 30 million dollars.
  • Highlighted Import Countries: United Arab Emirates, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Europe.
  • Usage/Industry: Whole fruit, juice, and jams.
  • Global Demand Trend: Seasonal Summer Demand.
  • Bihar’s Advantage: Exports from Bihar are high due to Muzaffarpur’s Shahi Litchi being a GI-tagged product.

3. Mango export from Bihar

Famous Mango in India, People love mangoes from Bihar, especially the Malda variety, in Gulf countries, the UK, and Saudi Arabia. These mangoes are also made into juices and mango pulp. These mangoes are sweeter compared to mangoes from the Indian subcontinent. As demand for tropical fruits grows, Bihari mangoes are popular in the world market and compete with mangoes from other Indian states.

  • Export Value & Share: 50 million+ dollars.
  • Top Importing countries: Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the UAE.
  • Trend: Bihari mangoes are becoming more popular around the world.
  • Advantage: Bihari exports are made out of sweet Malda mangoes.

4. Bananas export from Bihar

Due to the geographical area’s massive production clusters, banana farming can flourish in Bihar. Bananas from Bihar have many uses for processors in Nepal, Bhutan, and Middle Eastern countries. Exports are made around the world because of the cost and availability. This makes bananas one of the most important exports from Bihar.  

  • Export Value & Share: 40 million dollars
  • Top Importing countries: Europe, the Middle East, and Bhutan.
  • Trend: Exports are growing because of the success in year-round cultivation.
  • Advantage: The cost of farming these bananas is very low.

5. Guava export from Bihar

Bihar guavas are abundant in vitamins and antioxidants, which are popular in health-conscious foreign markets. They are sold in the UAE and Singapore as fruit and are further processed into juices, jams, and candies. Bihar guavas stand out in the international markets due to the quality of organic farming practiced in the region. These guavas are among other prominent exports of Bihar, especially in fruit-based products. 

  • Export Value: USD 20 million. 
  • Importers: UAE, Singapore. 
  • Usage: Juices, jams, and direct consumption. 
  • Trend: Growing demand for vitamin-rich diets. 
  • Advantage: Organic farming practices benefit guavas as Bihar export business

6. Pineapple export from Bihar

Bihar is home to the sweet and juicy pineapples, which are in demand in Bangladesh and the Gulf countries. They are well known for their use in the beverage industry and canned foods and are popular for direct consumption, especially in processed food markets. Due to the exceptionally low price and high quality they offer, they are considered attractive in international trade. Pineapple is becoming one of the most popular exports of Bihar.

  • Export Value: USD 25 million. 
  • Importers: Gulf countries, Bangladesh.
  • Usage: Beverages and processed food.
  • Trend: Increasing in the global market for juices.
  • Advantage: Sweet taste and low price.

7. Maize export from Bihar

A major export of Bihar is maize, which is used to make starch, ethanol, and animal feed. Maize is very important to the global agro-industry because it is sent to Vietnam, Malaysia, and other Asian countries. Bihar has a lot of land, which lets it offer low prices and a steady supply. People want maize because it strengthens Bihar’s exports. This is because more people require processed foods and biofuels.

  • Value of Exports: $70 million.
  • Importers: Vietnam, Malaysia.
  • Usage: Animal feed, starch, processed foods.
  • Trend: Rising demand in the agro industry.
  • Benefit: Bihar’s large area for growing maize.

8. Vegetables export from Bihar

Bihar’s surplus state in production allows the export of fresh onions, potatoes, and peas. The most important importers are Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Middle East. Vegetables exported from Bihar are recognized for their low prices and high quality. They are a reliable addition to Bihar’s export supply.

  • Export Value: USD 80 million.
  • Importers: Nepal, Middle East.
  • Usage: Exports of fresh produce.
  • Trend: Rising demand for perishable foods.
  • Advantage: Surplus of vegetables in Bihar.

9. Rice export from Bihar

Undoubtedly, the primary agricultural product of export from Bihar is non-basmati rice, which is marketed to or is consumed in the Gulf, Nepal, and Africa. Bihar rice is cultivated in plenty, competitively priced, and consumed in bulk and packaged forms, which is why the province is able to export rice so economically. For a detailed overview of leading rice suppliers, check out the list of Top 15 Basmati & Non-Basmati Rice Exporters in India.

  • Export Value: 300 million plus dollars.
  • Importers: Africa, Gulf countries, and Nepal.
  • Usage: Packaged and stapled rice.
  • Trend: Non-basmati rice demand is increasing.
  • Advantage: Exports from Bihar are priced economically.

10. Wheat export from Bihar

Bihar wheat is exported to Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. Bihar wheat is in demand globally and is used in the flour, staple, and bakery industries along with other countries. The province is known for having fertile plains, which helps with the quality and quantity of the produce, along with high productivity, hence making wheat a staple for exports.

  • Export Value: 60 million dollars.
  • Importers: Bangladesh and Nepal.
  • Usage: Staples and bakery goods.
  • Trend: Constant increase.
  • Advantage: High productivity.

11. Pulses export from Bihar

Bihar is known for cultivating lentils, gram, and other pulses, which are largely shipped to Sri Lanka and the Middle East. Many countries eat pulses often, and they are easy to find. They have a lot of protein. Bihar exports a lot of pulses since there is a lot of demand for them. This helps with food security around the world.

  • Value of exports: $25 million.
  • The Middle East and Sri Lanka are the countries that import.
  • Usage: Cooking staples. Trend: Demand has been steady.

12. Sugarcane and Jaggery export from Bihar

The sugarcane and jaggery exports from Bihar are expanding into Africa and the Gulf countries. These products are famous for their inborn sweetness and are used in food, drinks, and Ayurveda. The jaggery export from Bihar is unique in part due to the traditional methods used for making jaggery, which are incorporated in the exports.

  • Export Value: 50 million USD.
  • Importers: Middle East, Africa.
  • Uses: Sweeteners, organic sugar.
  • Trend: Increasing demand for natural sweeteners.
  • Profit: The traditional jaggery brands are a plus to the Bihar export business.

13. Ghee export from Bihar

Exported to the USA and UAE, pure desi ghee from Bihar has found its way to the ethnic and health-mindful markets. Aside from Ayurveda, ghee is used for cooking and in sweets, making it a highly regarded product due to its quality. As the interest in traditional dairy products surges, desi ghee from Bihar is becoming a niche export.

  • Export Value: 15 million USD.
  • Importers: UAE, USA.
  • Uses: Cooking, sweets, Ayurveda.
  • Trend: Rising in ethnic markets.
  • Profit: Strength in pure dairy products.

14. Gulab Jamun export from Bihar

Ready-to-eat packaged gulab jamun from Bihar has found its way to the Indian diaspora in the USA and Canada, as well as Europe. These ethnic sweets are part of the globally recognized and sold ethnic food market. Their strong branding combined with the authentic taste makes them a great part of the Bihar exports business.

  • Export Value: 10 million USD.
  • Importers: USA, Canada.
  • Uses: Sweets, ready to eat.
  • Trend: Ethnic diasporas.
  • Strength: Traditional brand.

15. Milk & Dairy Products export from Bihar

The Dairy Industry of Bihar exports milk powder, paneer, and yogurt to the UAE, Nepal, and Bangladesh. These products are gaining popularity in the international ethnic food industry. The sector is supported by dairy cooperatives, ensuring a high-quality supply. Milk and dairy products are striking export commodities of Bihar. Milk exports from India are growing rapidly, with products like skimmed milk powder, ghee, paneer, and dairy items reaching global markets.

  • Export Value: USD 90 million.
  • Importers: UAE, Bangladesh.
  • Usage: Skim milk, paneer, yogurt.
  • Trend: Increasing in popularity.
  • Strength: Large-scale dairy co-operatives.

16. Madhubani Paintings

Madhubani paintings are famous across the world. These paintings are exported to the USA, France, and the UK as premium art décor. Each of these paintings preserves Bihar’s rich inheritance, which provides a high value to cultural exports. Their ensured authenticity is provided by the Gi-tag certification, which cements their position as the prominent Bihar export business.

  • Export Value: USD 20 million.
  • Importers– USA, France, UK.
  • Usage: Art, décor.
  • Trend: Handicraft art and artifacts.
  • Strength: Gi-tagged art supports major exports of Bihar.

17. Handicrafts export from Bihar

Export of Handicrafts such as bamboo and wooden products and textiles are sent to Europe and North America. These crafts are eco-friendly and well crafted. Handicrafts uphold the cultural legacy of Bihar and support rural artisans. Their increasing demand is essential for the export industry of Bihar.   

  • Export Value: USD 30 million.
  • Importers: Europe, USA.
  • Usage: Home décor, gifts.
  • Trend: Increase in demand for handmade goods.
  • Advantage: Artisanal.

18. Green Chilli

 Bihar green chillies are exported fresh to the neighboring countries of Nepal and Bhutan and to the Gulf countries. They are greatly valued for their organic quality and delicious spicy flavor for use in the cooking and spice industries. Their demand guarantees that they will always be exported from Bihar. 

  • Export value: USD 15 Million.  
  • Importing countries: Nepal, Middle East.
  • Used for: Cooking, spices.
  • Trend: Steady growth.
  • Advantage: Organic and fresh.

19. Jute 

Bihar jute products, such as jute bags, jute mats, and Jute ropes, are exported to Bangladesh and Europe. Jute’s increasing demand is due to the rising eco-friendly trends. Abundant raw material, as well as skilled artisans, make jute one of the standout Bihar export businesses.

  • Export value: USD 40 million.
  • Importing countries: Bangladesh, Europe.
  • Used for: Eco-friendly products, bags, and mats.
  • Trend: Rising with eco-friendly awareness.
  • Advantage: Jute raw material.

20. Silk

Bhagalpur silk is well-known around the world for its quality and elegance. Exported to the UK, Italy, and France for luxury garments as well as for decoration. Bhagalpur silk has placed itself as one of the premium silk exporters of Bihar for its traditional weaving skills. Discover the diversity of Indian trade in our guide to the Top 50 Products Exported from India.

  • Export value: USD 35 million
  • Importing countries: France, Italy.
  • Used for: Garments, textiles.
  • Trend: Demand for luxury products.
  • Advantage: Silk weaving heritage of Bhagalpur.

21. Soybean & Milk Products

This involves the trade of soybean products and soy milk permeate powders to Nepal, UAE and SE Asia. The rise in the number of vegans globally is pushing more demand for soy-based products. Bihar has soy-derived products at low prices, which would allow him to expand his specialization in exports.

  • Export Value: From Bihar 20 million. 
  • Importers: Nepal, UAE. 
  • Usage: Dairy alternatives. 
  • Trend: Growing for vegan diets. 
  • Advantage: Low cost.

22. Rice Specialties

Bihar also exports premium rice such as ethereal-scented short-grain rice. This is a boon for exporters in Bihar, as it has good demand in Gulf and African countries. The premium-positioned products offered as a part of Bihar’s export business make it highly centric and business-friendly.

  • Export Value: 40 million. 
  • Importers: Africa and the Gulf. 
  • Usage: Packaged food. 
  • Trend: Stable. 
  • Advantage: Non-basmati strength in exports from Bihar.

23. Bakery & Confectionery

Bihar has a specialization in Bakery Confectionery such as bread, cookies, and sweets, which are being exported to Europe & North America. The use of quick snacks is also on the rise globally. Bihar is now gaining recognition for its innovative flavors. 

  • Export Value: 25 million. 
  • Importers: Canada and the USA. 
  • Usage: Ready to eat. 
  • Trend: Youth are gravitating to it more. 
  • Advantage: SSI and MSME.

24. Mentha Products & Honey

Oil of Mentha and the honey produced in Bihar are exported to the USA and Europe. Used in the pharma and wellness industries, there is a growing market for these items. The pure and high-quality production from Bihar provides a competitive edge in the main major exports of Bihar.

  • Export Value: USD 30 million
  • Importers: Europe and USA
  • Use: Pharma, wellness
  • Trend: Growing for natural oils
  • Advantage: Unique flavor quality

25. Fish & Seafood

Aquaculture in Bihar has developed, leading to the exportation of fish and seafood to Nepal, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia. These fish products are in high demand, and they are used in the food industries all over the world. Because of the abundant freshwater resources in Bihar, fish is a dependable resource for exports.

  • Export Value: USD 70 million
  • Importers: Nepal, Bangladesh, Southeast Asia
  • Use: Food industry
  • Trend: Consistent
  • Advantage: Inland aquaculture

Export Infrastructure Supporting Bihar

  • APEDA programs for farmers.
  • Rudimentary cold storage for electronic perishables.
  • Land connections to ports and road-rail links.
  • Developing SEZ for Bihar exports businesses.

Challenges & Opportunities

Challenges: Certification delays, infrastructure neglect, GI perishables. 

Opportunities: Repositioning of organic market, export branding of GI products, major exports of Bihar niche.

Future Outlook

The embrace of organic and ethnic products on global markets is an additional advantage for Bihar. The next decade should see fierce growth in Bihar’s exports with the rising demand for superfoods like makhana and Bihar’s exports of furnished crafts like the famous Madhubani art.

Conclusion: The Promise of Bihar’s Exports 

Excellent agricultural activities together with dairy production and the brilliant heritage crafts create the value proposition for the exports of the state. Bihar is proving to be an emerging player in global trade with Makhana exports, litchi, rice, and brilliant handicrafts.

At Eximity, we recognize the game-changing potential of Bihar from the perspective of global trade and therefore, work with businesses on winning strategies to build exports to Bihar. We work together to raise the profile of Bihar exports and present the finest attributes of India on a global stage.About Us: We help our clients form strategies that enable them to become leaders in the export market. We also help them with relevant SEO tools and intelligent global market insights in order to help our clients to realize their full potential in the export market.