Best 13 Agro business ideas:

Agro business of garlic peeling :

Agro business idea of garlic peeling business idea, here in this agro business , The garlic peeling business involves removing the outer skin of garlic cloves for sale to food processing companies, restaurants, hotels, and retailers. Peeled garlic has high demand in the food industry because it saves time for chefs and food manufacturers.

Where to sell:

• Supplying to Hotels & Restaurants – Bulk sales of peeled garlic to food businesses.
• Selling to Retailers & Supermarkets – Packaged peeled garlic for grocery stores.
• Wholesale to Food Processing Units – Large-scale supply to food manufacturers.
• Export Business – Many countries import peeled garlic for their food industries.
• Garlic Paste Production – Value addition by making garlic paste for higher profits.

Infrastructure & Requirements

a) Space & Setup:

• A small-scale unit can operate from 200-500 sq. ft.
• A medium-to-large unit may require 1,000+ sq. ft.
• Ventilation is necessary to handle the strong garlic odor.
• Water supply and drainage for cleaning garlic.

b) Equipment Needed:

• Garlic Peeling Machine – Peels large quantities quickly (manual or automatic).
• Garlic Bulb Breaker – Separates cloves from bulbs before peeling.
• Blower Machine – Removes loose garlic skins after peeling.
• Sorting & Grading Machine – Ensures uniform size and quality.
• Packaging Machine – Vacuum sealing or plastic wrapping for storage and sale.

c) Raw Materials:

• Raw Garlic Bulbs – Can be sourced from farmers or wholesalers.
• Packaging Materials – Plastic trays, vacuum-sealed bags, labels, and branding.

d) Licensing & Permits:

• Food Business License (FSSAI in India, FDA in the USA, etc.)
• GST or Tax Registration (if applicable)
• Local Health & Safety Permits

3. Income Potential & Profit Margins

Investment Costs:

• Small-Scale Business: ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000

Profit Calculation:

• Raw Garlic Cost: ₹20 – ₹40/kg ($0.25 – $0.50)
• Peeled Garlic Selling Price: ₹80 – ₹150/kg ($1 – $1.80)
• Profit Margin: ₹40 – ₹100/kg ($0.50 – $1.25)

For example, if you peel 500 kg/day with a ₹50/kg profit, your daily profit = ₹25,000 ($300). Monthly profit can reach ₹7,50,000 ($9,000) if demand is stable.

Moringa Powder manufacturing business:

Moringa powder is made by drying and grinding of the leaves and seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree, also known as the “drumstick tree” or “miracle tree.” It is a superfood rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential amino acids, making it highly beneficial for health and wellness.

Need and Importance of Moringa Powder

• Nutritional Powerhouse – Contains vitamins A, C, E, calcium, potassium, and protein.
• Boosts Immunity – High in antioxidants, which fight inflammation and infections.
• Supports Digestive Health – Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and gut health.
• Manages Blood Sugar & Cholesterol – Helps in diabetes and heart health.
• Weight Management – Boosts metabolism and supports fat loss.
• Sustainable & Fast Growing – Moringa is drought-resistant and grows easily.
• Medicinal Uses of Moringa Powder
• Anti-inflammatory – Reduces joint pain and arthritis symptoms.
• Diabetes Management – Lowers blood sugar levels naturally.
• Liver Detoxification – Protects and repairs liver damage.
• Improves Brain Health – Enhances memory and reduces stress.
• Antibacterial & Antifungal – Fights infections and improves skin health.

Business Opportunities in Moringa Powder Production

• The global moringa powder market is expanding due to its health benefits, and demand is rising in:
• Nutraceutical & Supplement Industry – Capsules, tablets, and powders.
• Food & Beverage Sector – Used in smoothies, energy bars, teas, and herbal drinks.
• Cosmetics & Skincare – Added to creams, soaps, and hair products.
• Ayurvedic & Herbal Medicine – Used in traditional medicine formulations.
• Export Market – High demand in USA, Europe, Middle East, and Asia.
• E-commerce & Retail – Sold as organic or packaged powder in supermarkets and online stores.

Machinery Required for Moringa Powder Production

• Leaf Drying Machine – Hot air or solar dryer to remove moisture.
• Grinding/Pulverizing Machine – Converts dried leaves into fine powder.
• Sieving Machine – Ensures uniform particle size.
• Packaging & Sealing Machine – Vacuum or nitrogen-sealed pouches for long shelf life.
• Labeling & Weighing Machine – For branding and packaging compliance.
• Cold Storage (Optional) – For storing fresh leaves before processing.

Market Potential & Income in India and Worldwide

• The global moringa products market is expected to reach $10+ billion by 2028, growing at 8-10% CAGR.
• India is one of the largest producers, exporting to the USA, Germany, UAE, Japan, and Africa.
• Domestic demand is rising due to growing health awareness and Ayurveda trends.

Potential Income:

• Profit Margins – 40-70%, depending on raw material sourcing, branding, and market.
• Small-scale businesses can earn ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 per month.

Government Support & Subsidies

• National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) – Support for moringa farming & processing.
• PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme – Grants & loans.
• Agricultural & Export Promotion Schemes – Assistance for exports under APEDA.
• Mudra Loans for MSMEs – Up to ₹10 lakhs for small businesses.

Powdered Vegetables business:

Powdered vegetables are made by dehydrating fresh vegetables and grinding them into fine powders. These powders retain the nutrients and flavors of fresh vegetables while having a longer shelf life and being easy to store and use. Common vegetable powders include onion, garlic, tomato, spinach, beetroot, carrot, ginger, and mushroom powder.

Need and Importance of Vegetable Powders

• Extended Shelf Life – Vegetable powders last for months without refrigeration.
• Convenience – Easy to use in cooking, beverages, and food processing.
• Space-Saving Storage – Reduced volume compared to fresh vegetables.
• Reduced Waste – Minimizes post-harvest losses of perishable vegetables.
• Consistent Availability – Seasonal vegetables can be consumed year-round.
• High Nutritional Value – Retains essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Growing Demand – Used in health foods, baby food, soups, sauces, and instant meals.

Business Opportunities in Vegetable Powder Manufacturing

• The demand for vegetable powders is rising in:
• Food & Beverage Industry – Used in soups, seasonings, and sauces.
• Health & Wellness Sector – Added to smoothies, dietary supplements, and baby food.
• Horeca (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes) – Used in instant food preparation.
• Export Market – High demand in countries like the USA, UAE, and Europe.
• E-commerce & Retail – Sold in packaged form via online platforms and supermarkets.

Required Infrastructure

• Raw Material Storage – Fresh vegetables require pre-processing.
• Pre-processing Equipment – Washing, peeling, and slicing machines.
• Drying Equipment – Hot air dryer, freeze dryer, spray dryer (for high-end powders).
• Grinding & Pulverizing Unit – Converts dried vegetables into fine powder.
• Packaging & Sealing Unit – Vacuum sealing, nitrogen flushing for freshness.
• Cold Storage (Optional) – For storing raw vegetables before processing.
• Quality Control & Testing Lab – Ensures hygiene, safety, and nutrient retention.
• Logistics & Distribution – Supply chain management for retail and bulk sales.

Potential Income & Profitability:

• Profit margins range from 30-60%, depending on raw materials, drying methods, and market demand.
• Small-scale businesses can earn ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 per month.

Government Support & Loan Schemes

• PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme
• Mudra Loans for MSMEs
• Subsidies under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)

Dehydration of Vegetables:

Dehydration of vegetables is the process of removing moisture from fresh vegetables to extend their shelf life, reduce weight and volume for storage and transportation, and maintain their nutritional value. This is achieved using methods like sun drying, hot air drying, freeze drying, and vacuum drying.

Need and Importance of Dehydration

• Prevents Spoilage – Reduces microbial growth and enzymatic reactions that cause decay.
• Increases Shelf Life – Can last months or years without refrigeration.
• Reduces Wastage – Helps prevent post-harvest losses, especially during peak seasons.
• Easy Storage & Transport – Lighter weight and compact size make transportation and storage more efficient.
• Retains Nutritional Value – Proper dehydration retains essential vitamins and minerals.
• Adds Value to Produce – Creates economic opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs.

Business Opportunity in Vegetable Dehydration

• Dehydrated vegetables are in high demand in industries such as:
• Food Processing (soups, ready-to-eat meals, instant foods)
• Horeca (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafes)
• Export Market (Middle East, Europe, USA)
• Retail (Supermarkets, E-commerce)

Some popular dehydrated vegetables include onions, tomatoes, carrots, spinach, garlic, and green peas. The demand is growing due to changing lifestyles and the increasing preference for ready-to-cook ingredients.

Required Infrastructure

• Raw Material Storage – For fresh vegetables before processing.
• Pre-processing Equipment – Washing, peeling, slicing, blanching machines.
• Dehydration Unit – Solar dryers, hot air dryers, or freeze dryers.
• Packaging Unit – Vacuum sealing, nitrogen flushing for extended freshness.
• Cold Storage (Optional) – For raw vegetables before dehydration.
• Quality Control & Testing Lab – To ensure hygiene and nutritional standards.
• Logistics & Distribution – For transport and supply chain management.

Investment:

• Small Scale (Home-based/Small Unit) – ₹2-5 lakhs

Potential Income & Profitability:

• Profit margins range from 20-50%, depending on the vegetable, processing technology, and market.
• Small-scale businesses can earn ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 per month.

Government Support & Loans

• PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme
• Mudra Loans for MSMEs
• Subsidies under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)

Aloe vera business :

The Aloe vera business idea is a powerful opportunity in today’s wellness-driven market. It’s used across cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and wellness industries, making it a high-demand, low-maintenance, and scalable business.

Products Manufactured from Aloe Vera:

Cosmetic & Personal Care:

• Aloe vera gel (pure, flavored, colored)
• Face creams, lotions, soaps
• Hair gel, shampoo, conditioner
• Face packs, scrubs, face wash

Health & Food Products:

• Aloe vera juice (flavored/unflavored)
• Aloe capsules/tablets
• Aloe powder (used in supplements/foods)
• Aloe-based drinks, smoothies

Other:

• Aloe-based pet care products
• Herbal mosquito repellents
• Hand sanitizers

Infrastructure Requirements

• For Processing Unit:
• 1000 – 3000 sq. ft. space
• Water & power supply
• Raw aloe washing area
• Gel extraction setup (manual or automated)
• Filtration & pasteurization equipment
• Mixer/homogenizer (for cosmetics/juice blending)
• Filling and packaging machines
• Cold storage or preservation room (optional)
• Lab/testing area (basic quality check)

Licenses Required:

• FSSAI (for juice/edibles)
• AYUSH or cosmetic license (for health & beauty products)
• GST, Udyam/MSME registration
• Export license (if needed)

Investment

• Small scale (manual setup, basic gel/juice): ₹3 – ₹10 Lakhs
• Govt Schemes: PMFME, MSME subsidies, NABARD support, or Khadi/AYUSH programs can reduce cost burden.
• Market & Sales Channels

International/Export:

• High demand in USA, Europe, Middle East
• Export aloe gel, powder, capsules, cosmetics
• Tie-ups with herbal, wellness, and organic brands abroad

Income & Profit Potential

• Margins (approx.):
• Aloe vera gel: Cost ~₹20–30/unit, Sell at ₹100–300/unit
• Juice: Cost ~₹20/litre, Sell at ₹100–150/litre
• Soaps, creams: Margins 3x–5x
• Export powder/capsules: High margin, premium prices

Monthly Profit Potential:

• Small scale: ₹30,000 – ₹1 Lakh/month.

The jackfruit business:

The jackfruit business is gaining serious traction globally, especially as a plant-based meat alternative and for its wide range of value-added products. It’s a versatile, sustainable, and underutilized crop with excellent business potential.

Business Models:

• Fresh jackfruit retail/export
• Value-added products (chips, pickles, pulp, flour)
• Vegan meat processing
• B2B supply (to restaurants, hotels, FMCG brands)

Products Manufactured from Jackfruit

• Raw/Green Jackfruit:
• Frozen jackfruit cubes
• Jackfruit curry mix
• Vegan meat products (burgers, sausages, curries)
• Ripe Jackfruit:
• Jackfruit pulp (used in beverages, ice cream, etc.)
• Jackfruit jam, jelly
• Juice and smoothie mixes
• Jackfruit ice cream
• Jackfruit wine
• Jackfruit chips (very popular snack)
• Jackfruit seed flour (gluten-free)
• Dried jackfruit
• Canned jackfruit

Infrastructure Requirements

• For Processing Unit:
• 1000 – 3000 sq. ft. area
• Pre-processing space (cleaning, cutting)
• Cooking & processing equipment (blancher, pulper, slicer, dryer)
• Cold storage or refrigeration unit
• Packing & sealing machines
• Waste management system
• Water supply
• Power (single or three-phase)
• Skilled workers (processing, hygiene, cutting, packing)
• Licensing: FSSAI, GST, Udyam/MSME, possibly exp

Investment

• Small scale (chips, pickles, pulp, frozen cuts): ₹5 – ₹15 Lakhs
• Support: PMFME, PMEGP, or MSME schemes can offer loans/subsidies.

Domestic and International/Export::

• Retail stores, supermarkets
• Hotels, restaurants, vegan cafes
• Online marketplaces (BigBasket, Amazon, etc.)
• High demand in USA, Canada, Germany, UK, Middle East
• Export in frozen/canned form
• Tie-ups with vegan brands or

Business Potential & Income

• Margins on value-added products:
• Jackfruit chips: Cost ₹60/kg; Sell ₹150–₹250/kg
• Frozen jackfruit meat substitute: Cost ~₹80/kg; Sell ₹200–₹400/kg
• Canned jackfruit: High global demand; premium prices

Monthly income estimate :

Small scale: ₹40K – ₹1.5L profit/month

Coconut and coconut tree products business :

Starting a coconut and coconut tree products business is a smart move, especially in regions where coconuts are abundant. The coconut tree is known as the “Tree of Life” because almost every part can be turned into a marketable product. Here’s a full breakdown for you:

Products Manufactured from Coconut Tree

From Coconut Fruit:

• Coconut Oil (virgin, edible, hair oil)
• Desiccated Coconut
• Coconut Water (packaged)
• Coconut Milk & Cream
• Coconut Flour
• Coconut Shell Charcoal
• Coconut Sugar
• Copra (dried coconut kernel)

From Coconut Shell:

• Handicrafts, Bowls, Spoons
• Activated Carbon
• Charcoal Briquettes
• Decorative items

From Coconut Husk:

• Coir Fiber
• Coir Pith Blocks/Bricks (used in gardening)
• Mats, Brushes, Ropes, Mattresses

From Coconut Leaves and Wood:

• Brooms
• Handicrafts
• Fuelwood
• Furniture from trunk

Infrastructure Requirements

• Depends on what product(s) you choose. Here’s a general idea:
• For Processing Units (e.g., oil, coir, desiccated coconut):
• 1000 – 5000+ sq. ft. of space
• Machinery specific to product (e.g., oil expeller, pulverizer, dryers, coir defibering machine)
• Power supply (single/three-phase)
• Water supply
• Storage space (raw and finished goods)
• Packaging section

For Shell Products & Handicrafts:

• Small workshop area
• Hand tools or small machines
• Skilled labor (craftsmen)

Investment

• Micro to Small Scale (crafts, coir ropes, oil pressing):₹2 – ₹10 Lakhs

Support:

Subsidies/loans under schemes like PMEGP, MSME, or NABARD can reduce capital burden.

Income Potential

• Basic numbers (depends on product):
• Virgin coconut oil: Production cost ~₹180/L; sell ~₹250–₹400/L
• Coconut bowls: Cost ~₹10–₹15; sell ~₹80–₹300/piece (export margin higher)
• Activated charcoal: High export value; excellent margins
• Coir pith blocks: ₹5–₹15 each; bulk sales to nurseries/gardeners

Monthly profit potential:

• Small setup: ₹30,000 – ₹1 Lakh/month
• Medium scale: ₹1 – ₹5 Lakhs/month
• Export-oriented or large scale: ₹5 Lakhs – ₹20+ Lakhs/month

Jaggery Powder Business:

Jaggery Powder is a natural sweetener made by evaporating sugarcane juice without separating the molasses and crystals. Unlike solid jaggery, jaggery powder is more refined, easy to package, and longer-lasting.

You can start a business by:

• Manufacturing jaggery powder.
• Packaging and selling it under your brand.
• Distributing or wholesaling.

Scope & Business Potential:

• Growing demand for organic, chemical-free sweeteners.
• Used in households, restaurants, bakeries, Ayurvedic products, and health-conscious markets.
• Export potential to Middle East, Europe, USA, Canada, etc.
• Government support through MSME schemes, FPOs, and organic farming initiatives.

Selling platforms:

• Local markets.
• Retail shops.
• Organic stores.
• Online (Amazon, Flipkart, your own website).

Infrastructure Required:

• For a Small to Medium Setup:
• Land/space: 500 – 1,000 sq. ft. for production and packaging.

Raw Material:

Sugarcane juice or raw jaggery blocks.

Machinery:

• Juice extraction machine (if starting from sugarcane)
• Boiling/evaporation unit (for processing)
• Filtering and drying unit
• Pulverizer/Grinder (for powder)
• Packaging machine (manual/semi-auto/automatic)

Storage Area:

• Clean, dry space for raw material and finished goods.

Power & Water Supply:

• Regular power with backup (optional), and clean water.

Investment Required:

• For home-based/mini unit: can start around ₹1 – ₹2 lakhs

Income Potential:

• Depends on production capacity, pricing, and sales channels.

Legal & Licenses Required:

• Company Registration: Sole proprietorship, partnership, or Pvt Ltd.
• FSSAI License: Mandatory for food businesses.
• GST Registration: For billing, taxation, and e-commerce.
• Udyam/MSME Registration: For govt schemes and subsidies.
• Trade License: From local municipality/panchayat.
• Trademark Registration: For branding (optional but useful).
• Pollution Control Certificate: If using large-scale machinery (may vary by state).
• Import-Export Code (IEC): If you plan to export.

How to Start Selling

• Sell locally to retailers, wholesalers, sweet shops.
• Set up a stall in organic fairs, exhibitions, or weekly markets.
• Create an Instagram/Facebook page for local orders.
• List on Amazon, Flipkart, or create your website (Shopify, WooCommerce).
• Partner with health food or organic product stores.

chopped vegetables business:

Starting a chopped vegetables business in India is a growing opportunity due to changing lifestyles, increased urbanization, and rising demand for ready-to-cook food. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the business idea:

Business Idea Overview:

• The business involves cleaning, chopping, packing, and selling fresh-cut vegetables to:
• Retail customers (households)
• Supermarkets and grocery stores
• Hotels, Restaurants, and Caterers (HORECA)
• Cloud kitchens and tiffin services

Products You Can Offer

• Daily-use vegetables: Onion, tomato, potato, green chilies, ginger, garlic.
• Ready-to-cook mixes: Sabzi mix, pulao mix, stir-fry mix.
• Combo packs: Sambar pack, salad pack, curry mix.
• Special packs: Diet salads, keto vegetable packs, etc.

Investment Required: 1 -2 lacs depending upon your area for

• Land cost
• Cutting and packaging equipment,
• Sold storage / refrigerator,
• Raw vegetables,
• Staff,
• Packing material,
• License and misc.

Equipment:

• Vegetable washers and peelers
• Chopping machines or manual tools
• Vacuum sealer or food-grade packing
• Weighing and labeling machines
• Delivery logistics (own or 3rd party)
• FSSAI Registration: Mandatory food license.

Market & Demand:

• Urban areas and tier-1/tier-2 cities are prime markets.
• Double-income households, working professionals, and students are major customers.
• Hotels/restaurants/cloud kitchens prefer bulk supply to save time and labor.
• Residential apartments (direct-to-home)
• Grocery chains (Reliance Smart, More, local marts)
• Online platforms (tie-up with Swiggy Instamart, Zepto, Blinkit)
• Tiffin and catering services

Profit & ROI:

Rs. 20-50 per kg.

Mango and mango product business:

Mango and mango product business in India can be highly profitable, especially given India is the largest producer of mangoes in the world. There is huge demand for fresh mangoes, processed mango products, and exports.

Business Opportunities:

Fresh Mango Trading:

Buy from farmers and sell in local or wholesale markets.

Mango Processing Products:

• Pulp & Puree (used in ice cream, drinks, bakery)
• Mango Juice & Squash
• Pickles & Chutneys
• Dried mango slices & Aam papad
• Mango Jam/Jelly
• Frozen mango cubes (for exports)

Market Demand:

• High domestic consumption during summer.
• FMCG & food industries use mango pulp/puree year-round.
• Export potential is rising with quality control and certifications.
• Packaged & hygienic mango products are in demand across retail and eCommerce platforms.

Investment Required:

Fresh Mango Trading:

• Investment: ₹50,000 – ₹2 lakh
• For transport, packaging, temporary storage, and local market access.

Small-Scale Processing Unit:

• Investment: ₹5 – ₹10 lakh
• For machines (pulper, boiler, sealer, etc.), licenses (FSSAI), labor, raw material, packaging.

Infrastructure Requirements:

• Location: Near mango-producing belts (Andhra, Maharashtra, UP, Gujarat)
• Space: 500 – 2000 sq. ft. for storage and processing.
• Machinery:
• Pulper
• Juice extractor
• Pasteurizer
• Bottling and sealing machine

Licenses:

• FSSAI
• GST
• MSME Udyam Registration
• APEDA (for export)
• IEC (Import Export Code)

Profit Potential:

Fresh mango trading can give margins of 10%–25% depending on the volume and season.

Processed mango products: 30%–100%+ margins depending on scale and branding.

Kokum and Kokum products business:

Kokum and Kokum products business in India—especially in states like Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Kerala—can be highly profitable, particularly due to the growing demand for natural, regional, and wellness-based products.

Business Opportunities:

Kokum (Garcinia indica) is a versatile fruit used in:

Primary Products:

• Fresh kokum fruit
• Dried kokum (amsul) – used in cooking

Processed Kokum Products:

• Kokum juice/concentrate/syrup (summer drink)
• Kokum butter (cosmetic & pharmaceutical use)
• Kokum powder (used in spice mixes)
• Kokum jam/jelly/squash
• Ready-to-drink kokum beverages
• Herbal products and supplements using kokum extract

Market Demand:

• Rising interest in natural coolants, digestion aids, and traditional drinks.
• Popular in urban India and among health-conscious consumers.
• Used by food processors, restaurants, and Ayurvedic companies.
• Seasonal peak: April–July, but processed products sell year-round.

Investment:

Small-Scale (Home or Cottage Industry):

• Investment: ₹50,000 – ₹2 lakh
• Includes fruit purchase, drying, manual packaging, and syrup making.

Medium-Scale Processing Unit:

• Investment: ₹5 – ₹15 lakh
• Includes processing machinery, packaging, FSSAI license, staff, branding.

Infrastructure Requirements:

• Location: Preferably near kokum-producing areas (Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Goa).
• Space: 500–2000 sq. ft. depending on scale.
• Machinery:
• Fruit washer
• Pulper
• Juice extractor
• Boiler
• Bottle filling and sealing machine
• Cold storage (optional but useful)
• Packaging: PET/glass bottles, pouches, jars

Profit Potential:

• Kokum syrup: Cost ₹25–35/litre → Sell ₹80–120/litre.
• Dried kokum: Cost ₹100–150/kg → Sell ₹300–500/kg.
• Margins: 40% – 150% depending on product and scale.
• Monthly income (medium scale): ₹50,000 – ₹2 lakh+

Seasonal businesses can stock and sell year-round (like squash & syrup).

Required Licenses:

• FSSAI License (Food processing)
• Udyam/MSME Registration
• GST Registration
• Trademark registration (for brand protection)
• APEDA (for export, if needed)

Government Subsidies & Schemes:

• PM FME Scheme (PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises):
• 35% subsidy on plant & machinery (max ₹10 lakh).
• NABARD & State Horticulture Departments:
• Offer cold storage & food processing subsidies.
• Check for Kokum promotion schemes in Maharashtra & Goa.
• SFAC (Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium):
• Financial assistance for farmer groups starting kokum processing units.

Cashew nut business:

The cashew nut business involves the procurement, processing, and selling of cashew nuts. It can be broken into:

• Raw cashew nut (RCN) trading
• Processing and packaging
• Exporting
• By-product sales (like cashew nut shell liquid – CNSL)

Cashew nuts are highly valued for their taste, nutritional benefits, and demand in both domestic and international markets (especially the USA, Europe, and Middle East).

Business Potential:

• India, Vietnam, and Africa are the top producers and exporters.
• Value addition through processing increases profit margins significantly.
• High Demand: Cashew is a premium nut with year-round demand globally.
• Export-Oriented: Major markets include the USA, EU, UAE, Japan, and China.
• Employment Generation: Labor-intensive industry, especially in shelling and peeling.

Investment Required:

• Investment depends on the business model:
• A. Small-Scale Processing Unit
• Investment: ₹10–25 lakhs ($12,000–$30,000)
• Capacity: 1–2 tons/day
• Scope: Manual/semi-automatic setup, local sales

Infrastructure & Equipment:

• Land: 2,000–10,000+ sq. ft depending on capacity
• Machinery:
• Roasting/steaming unit
• Shelling machine
• Peeling machine
• Drying equipment
• Grading machine
• Packaging unit
• Utilities: Water, electricity, waste management
• Storage: For raw nuts and processed kernels
• Licenses: FSSAI, GST, IEC code (for exports), factory license

Profitability:

• Profit Margin:
• Raw to processed cashew yields ~22–24% kernel
• Gross margins: 20–40%
• Break-even: Generally within 1.5–2 years for a well-managed unit

Revenue:

Small unit: ₹25–50 lakhs/year

Profit Drivers:

By-products (shell oil, broken pieces)

Cashew nut processing generates several valuable by-products beyond the edible kernel. Here are the key by-products and their uses:

1. Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL)

Source: Extracted from the hard outer shell of the raw cashew nut.

Uses:

• Industrial resins and coatings
• Brake linings, clutch plates
• Varnishes and paints
• Insulating materials
• Bio-based chemicals (anti-termite, anti-microbial agents)
• Market Value: CNSL has a strong export market, especially in chemical industries.

. Cashew Shell Cake:

Source: Residue left after CNSL extraction.

Uses:

• Industrial fuel (boilers and kilns)
• Compost or soil conditioner (after detoxification)
• Note: High calorific value; can reduce energy costs for the plant itself.

Broken Cashew Kernels:

Source: Broken pieces from shelling and peeling.

Uses:

• Sold to confectionery and bakery industries
• Used in sweets, biscuits, and snack mixes
• Market: Slightly lower price than whole kernels but still profitable.

Cashew Testa (Red Skin or Husk):

Source: The thin reddish skin removed during peeling.

Uses:

• Animal feed (after processing)
• Fertilizer ingredient
• Biochar or fuel (in some regions)

Cashew Apple (if farming is involved):

Source: The fleshy fruit attached to the nut (not part of nut processing).

Uses:

• Juice, vinegar, wine (fermented drinks)
• Cattle feed
• Bioethanol production.

Tamarind and Tamarind Byproducts:

Tamarind and Tamarind Byproducts Business in India (or tropical countries) can be a highly profitable agro-based venture due to high domestic and export demand.

Business Opportunities in Tamarind Industry

A. Primary Products

Raw tamarind (with/without seeds) – Sold in bulk to retailers, wholesalers, and exporters.

B. Value-Added Byproducts

• Tamarind pulp/paste
• Tamarind concentrate
• Tamarind juice/syrup
• Tamarind seed powder (used in textile, adhesive, pharma)
• Tamarind seed kernel oil
• Pickles, sauces, candies, snacks

C. Market Demand

• Food industry: Flavoring, sauces, and snacks.
• Pharmaceuticals: Tamarind seed gum (TSG) used in tablets, laxatives.
• Textile industry: Tamarind kernel powder as a sizing agent.
• Export market: High demand from Gulf, USA, Sri Lanka, Malaysia.

Infrastructure Needs:

• Processing unit with:
• Cleaning & de-seeding equipment
• Pulp extraction or concentration machinery
• Dryers (solar or electric for tamarind and seeds)
• Seed grinding machines (for powder)
• Cold storage (optional)
• Packaging: Vacuum sealing, labeling machines
• Transportation: Own vehicle or tie-up with logistics

Profit Potential:

• Monthly Income Potential (for small plant):
• Revenue: ₹3 – ₹10 lakhs/month (depending on scale)
• Net Profit: ₹1 – ₹4 lakhs/month