India’s AYUSH sector—covering Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homeopathy—saw exports surge to $689 million in financial year 2024-25, a solid 6.1% rise from the previous year. This growth underscores the increasing worldwide demand for herbal products, medicines, and wellness services rooted in ancient Indian knowledge systems.
Key drivers include rising health consciousness post-pandemic, with exports of AYUSH formulations jumping 12% to over $450 million. Top markets were the United States ($178 million), Afghanistan ($45 million), and Nepal ($42 million), fueled by demand for immunity-boosting herbs like Ashwagandha, Turmeric, and Giloy. Ready-to-use formulations led at 61%, followed by medicinal herbs and raw plants at 19%, and homeopathic products at 7%. Sri Lanka emerged as a fast-growing destination, with shipments up 89%.
The Ministry of AYUSH credits this success to proactive promotion via Indian embassies, trade fairs, and quality certifications like WHO-GMP. Initiatives such as the AYUSH Premium Mark and International AYUSH Conferences have built buyer confidence. Government support through the National AYUSH Mission and export incentives has also helped MSMEs scale up. In FY25, India exported AYUSH products to over 170 countries, with pharmaceuticals alone hitting $588 million.
This milestone aligns with India’s $2 trillion export target by 2030, positioning AYUSH as a key pillar in the wellness economy, projected to reach $70 billion domestically by 2025. Challenges like stringent regulations in Europe and the US persist, but opportunities in nutraceuticals and telemedicine loom large. With sustained policy focus, AYUSH exports could double in the next five years, blending tradition with modern trade.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
Q1: What is the value of India’s AYUSH exports in 2024-25?
AYUSH exports hit $689 million, up 6.1% from last year, driven by formulations, herbs, and homeopathy to over 170 countries.
Q2: Which countries are top markets for AYUSH products?
The US leads at $178 million, followed by Afghanistan ($45M), Nepal ($42M), and rising markets like Sri Lanka with 89% growth.
Q3: What products drove the export growth?
Formulations contributed 61% ($420M+), medicinal herbs 19%, and homeopathy 7%, boosted by demand for Ashwagandha and Turmeric.
Q4: What supports AYUSH export success?
Government initiatives like WHO-GMP certification, trade fairs, AYUSH Mission, and embassy promotion have enhanced global trust and market access.