The Post-IYOM Millet Boom Is Real — And Accelerating
India produces approximately 41% of the world's millets, with total output exceeding 17 million MT annually across Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh. The International Year of Millets in 2023 catalyzed a global awareness shift, and by 2026, institutional buyers in Europe, the Middle East, and North America have moved millets from niche health-food shelves into mainstream procurement. India's millet export basket grew from $54 million in FY2022-23 to a projected $95 million in FY2025-26. Key drivers include the EU's farm-to-fork emphasis on climate-resilient grains and a 28% rise in gluten-free product launches globally featuring millet as a primary ingredient.
Finger Millet (Ragi): EU's New Favorite Superfood Grain
Finger millet exports from India to EU countries grew 42% year-on-year in FY2025-26, with total EU-bound shipments exceeding 12,000 MT. Ragi's high calcium content (344 mg per 100g, roughly 3x that of wheat) and low glycemic index have positioned it as a key ingredient for European health food brands. FOB Nhava Sheva prices for sortex-clean ragi currently range from $520–$620 per MT depending on origin. EU importers must ensure compliance with MRL limits for aflatoxins (max 4 µg/kg total) and pesticide residues. The organic-certified segment is growing fastest, with a 25% premium over conventional ragi.
Request a pre-shipment quality certificate specifying moisture content (max 12%), foreign matter (max 1%), and aflatoxin levels for all millet shipments. For organic millets, ensure your supplier provides a valid Transaction Certificate matching the specific lot and shipment date.
Pearl Millet & Foxtail: Diversifying the Export Basket
Pearl millet (bajra) remains India's largest millet by volume, with Rajasthan alone producing over 7 million MT annually. Export demand from Middle Eastern and African markets has risen 35% as food security programs increasingly incorporate millets into school feeding and public distribution schemes. FOB prices for pearl millet range from $280–$380 per MT, making it highly competitive against sorghum and maize. Foxtail millet has carved a premium niche in the US and Japanese markets, where it is marketed as a rice alternative with 8g protein per 100g serving. Indian foxtail millet processors in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are investing in hulling and color-sorting infrastructure to meet stringent quality expectations.