Banana Exports from India: A Growing Opportunity
- ASHADHAN EXIM PVT LTD
- Aug 29
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 9
Bananas are one of the most popular fruits in the world. They are healthy, affordable, and available year-round. India stands as the largest producer of bananas globally, growing over 30 million tonnes each year. The country's favorable climate, effective farming practices, and diverse banana varieties contribute to its significant role in global banana production.
Despite this, India's share in banana exports remains small compared to its vast production. In 2024, India exported bananas worth approximately US$359 million, accounting for only about 2.3% of the global banana trade. Most bananas are consumed domestically, and the export system is still developing. To address this, the Indian government, through APEDA and Prohort, is working to enhance banana exports. They aim to reach US$1 billion in exports within the next five years by entering new markets and strengthening supply chains.
According to Moneycontrol, bananas became the top fruit export from India in 2025, surpassing grapes. Exports have increased nearly sevenfold since 2018.
Global Banana Market Trends and Export Worth
The global banana market is expanding steadily. More people are consuming bananas, international trade is growing, and awareness of healthy eating is increasing. In 2022, the combined production of bananas and plantains reached nearly 179 million tonnes. Bananas have become one of the most traded fruits worldwide, with demand continuing to rise.
Exports of bananas are also lucrative. The total export value rose from US$14.4 billion in 2023 to about US$15.3 billion in 2024, reflecting a 6% growth in just one year. Bananas are available year-round, can be cultivated in various regions, and have multiple uses, making them a strong candidate for international exports.
Top Banana Producing Countries in the World
The banana market is primarily dominated by a few major countries, with India leading in production. India cultivates and exports various banana types, including Cavendish, Robusta, and Red bananas, catering to both local and export markets. Other significant producers include China, Indonesia, and the Philippines, which mainly supply bananas to nearby regional markets.
Countries like Brazil and Ecuador focus more on exports. Ecuador is the largest banana exporter globally, thanks to its robust supply chains and extensive distribution network. This positions Ecuador as a key player in ensuring bananas reach markets worldwide.
Banana
China
Indonesia
Brazil
Ecuador
Philippines
Guatemala
Colombia
Thailand
Uganda
Top Countries Importing Bananas
Bananas are among the most sought-after fruits globally, with many countries importing them in large quantities. The biggest buyers include the United States, European Union countries, Japan, China, and Russia. These nations cannot produce enough bananas locally due to unsuitable climates, relying heavily on imports to meet demand.
In North America and Europe, bananas are staple fruits available year-round. This is made possible by efficient cold storage and transport systems. The increasing focus on healthy eating and the convenience of bananas as a snack have further boosted their demand. To keep pace, importing countries source bananas from multiple nations and utilize advanced supply chains to ensure consistent availability.
United States
Germany
China
Japan
Netherlands
France
United Kingdom
Italy
Canada
Poland
Russia
Top Countries Exporting Bananas
Only a few countries dominate the global banana export market. Ecuador leads as the largest exporter, thanks to its vast banana plantations and efficient export systems. Other notable exporters include the Philippines, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Guatemala. These countries have developed strong farming techniques, packaging facilities, and transport systems, enabling them to supply bananas quickly and in excellent condition.
India, while producing a significant quantity of bananas, exports a smaller share compared to these leading nations. However, India's banana exports are steadily increasing, showing strong potential for further growth. With its large-scale production capabilities, India could become a more prominent player in the global banana export market in the coming years.
Top States Producing Bananas in India
Bananas thrive in various states across India due to the diverse climate that supports different banana varieties. The primary states producing the most bananas are Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat. Tamil Nadu leads in quantity and variety, cultivating bananas for both fresh consumption and processing.
Maharashtra and Karnataka also contribute significantly, particularly with farms focused on exports. Since bananas are cultivated in different regions with varying weather patterns, India can harvest them throughout the year. This continuous production helps meet domestic demand while increasing the potential for future exports.
Which Countries Does India Export Bananas To?
India exports bananas to numerous countries worldwide. Key markets include the Middle East (Iran, Iraq, UAE, Saudi Arabia), Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the United States, Russia, and several neighboring South Asian nations. The Middle East and Gulf countries have high demand and purchasing power for tropical fruits, making them significant markets for Indian bananas. Traders typically export varieties like Robusta and Cavendish, which have longer shelf lives during shipping.
Closer markets like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are easier to serve due to their proximity and similar consumption habits, making bananas a popular choice. Conversely, markets like the US and Russia present challenges due to strict quality regulations. To meet these standards, Indian exporters are enhancing their packaging, storage, and certification processes, gradually expanding their presence in these competitive markets.
Other Banana-Related Products and Their Export Potential
India's potential in banana exports extends beyond fresh fruit. There is a significant opportunity in exporting banana-based products, which can enhance earnings and open new markets. For instance, banana fibers can be utilized to create textiles, bags, ropes, and handicrafts, while banana leaves can be fashioned into plates and packaging, serving as eco-friendly alternatives to plastic.
Bananas can also be processed into powder, chips, puree, and even wine or vinegar, catering to the food and beverage industry. These products often command higher prices than raw bananas and help reduce surplus waste.
Globally, the demand for banana-based products is rising as consumers increasingly prefer natural, biodegradable materials and healthier snack options. Markets in Europe, the Middle East, and North America are becoming more receptive to sustainable packaging and plant-based products.
This trend presents Indian businesses and exporters with a robust opportunity to leverage the country's large banana production, invest in agri-processing research, and innovate to create world-class products that align with these emerging trends. With the right value addition, bananas can transition from a single fruit export to a diverse range of high-demand global products.
Conclusion
India is already one of the largest banana producers globally, positioning itself strongly in the export market. Despite facing tough competition and fluctuating global market conditions, India is enhancing its export system through improved infrastructure, streamlined supply chains, and diversified product offerings. These initiatives are fostering steady growth in the international banana trade.
By focusing on quality standards, obtaining proper certifications, and targeting both traditional and emerging markets, India can capture a larger share of the global banana business, valued in billions. With its extensive banana-growing regions and improving export networks, India has the potential to play an even more significant role in supplying bananas and banana-based products to the world.