India’s biscuit industry is expanding at a CAGR of 12.4%, projected to reach US $ 11,792.3 million by 2027, driven by shifting consumer preferences and rising health awareness. Major players like Parle, Britannia, and ITC lead the market with innovative product offerings and efficient distribution.
Health-focused biscuits, such as multi-grain, oat-based, and sugar-free options, are gaining traction. Strong exports, valued at US $ 325 million in 2023, underscore the industry’s growing global presence.
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India’s biscuit industry is experiencing sustained growth, with a CAGR of 12.4%, and is projected to reach US $ 11,792.3 million by 2027. This steady expansion is driven by shifting consumer preferences, increasing demand for snacks, lifestyle changes, and a growing working population. The heightened health awareness among consumers has also fueled the demand for healthier snack options, encouraging brands to innovate. The popularity of ready-to-eat foods further contributes to the sector’s momentum.
India’s biscuit exports totaled US $ 325 million in 2023, with top importers including the USA, Yemen, Kenya, South Sudan, and Canada. In comparison, biscuit imports into India remain relatively low, valued at US $ 9.4 million, with supplies coming from Malaysia, Indonesia, Belgium, Bangladesh, and Singapore. The gap between exports and imports reflects India’s strong manufacturing capacity and growing competitiveness in global markets.
In response to rising health consciousness, Indian biscuit brands have steadily introduced healthier product lines. The first wave of innovation came with digestive biscuits, designed to increase fiber intake and address concerns around cholesterol and blood sugar. As awareness of cardiovascular health grew, companies shifted their focus toward multi-grain and whole-grain biscuits. More recently, the market has seen the rise of oat-based biscuits, driven by the trend of oats consumption at breakfast. However, consumers are now more discerning, seeking not just healthy labels but also clear nutritional benefits. This has prompted brands to invest in transparent product communication and functional ingredients to meet evolving expectations.
Leading Market Players
– Parle Products: Founded in 1929, Parle holds 27-30% market share and enjoys a strong presence in both urban and rural areas. – Britannia Industries: With over 100 years of legacy, Britannia offers popular products such as Tiger and Marie Gold biscuits, supported by a vast network of production units and distributors. – Sunfeast (ITC): Launched in 2003, Sunfeast caters to multiple market segments, known for its high-quality offerings and innovative packaging. – Unibic: Established in 2004, Unibic is known for sugar-free, digestive, and oats-based biscuits along with snack bars. – Patanjali: This brand emphasizes herbal and nutritious biscuits, offering specialized products for conditions like diabetes and hypertension. – Dukes: Known for biscuits, wafers, and cookies, Dukes focuses on nutrition and visually appealing packaging to attract consumers.
With growing demand, expanding distribution networks, and continuous product innovation, India’s biscuit industry is well-positioned to maintain its momentum. Brands are actively meeting consumer demands for healthier and convenient snack options while enhancing their packaging and product quality, ensuring they remain competitive in both domestic and global markets.
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