Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has called on India to actively gear up for ethanol exports, citing the country’s growing production capacity and the global shift towards biofuels. Speaking at a national energy summit in New Delhi on September 24, 2025, Gadkari emphasized that India’s ethanol economy is now robust enough to support international trade, especially with countries seeking alternatives to fossil fuels.
“India is producing more ethanol than ever before. We must now look beyond domestic blending and explore export opportunities,” Gadkari said. He highlighted Brazil, Indonesia, and several African nations as potential markets, while urging policymakers to create a dedicated ethanol export policy.
India’s Ethanol Landscape – Key Metrics (2025)
| Parameter | Value / Status |
|---|---|
| Ethanol Production Capacity | 1,200 crore litres/year |
| Ethanol Blending Target (2025) | 12% (achieved) |
| Ethanol Blending Target (2030) | 20% |
| Surplus Ethanol (Post-blending) | 180 crore litres/year |
| Export Potential (Estimated) | ₹12,000 crore annually |
India’s ethanol production has surged due to aggressive government incentives, expanded molasses-based distilleries, and the inclusion of maize and broken rice as feedstock. With the domestic blending target of 12% already met, Gadkari believes the surplus can be monetized through strategic exports.
He also urged the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to simplify export norms and create bilateral trade channels for ethanol. “We need to treat ethanol like a strategic commodity. It’s not just fuel—it’s foreign exchange,” Gadkari added.
India’s Ethanol Export Strategy – Proposed Focus Areas
| Focus Area | Description | Strategic Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Bilateral Trade Deals | Ethanol-specific clauses in FTAs | Market access, tariff relief |
| Export Incentives | Duty rebates, logistics support | Competitive pricing |
| Quality Certification | Global standards compliance | Acceptance in regulated markets |
| Infrastructure | Dedicated ethanol export terminals | Efficient supply chain |
| Branding & Promotion | “Green Fuel from India” campaign | Global visibility, ESG appeal |
Gadkari’s remarks come at a time when global ethanol demand is rising, driven by climate commitments and fuel diversification. Countries like Brazil and the US have long dominated the ethanol trade, but India’s entry could reshape the market with competitive pricing and tropical feedstock advantages.
Industry leaders have welcomed the proposal. The Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) said, “We’re ready to export. What we need is policy clarity and trade facilitation.” Ethanol producers in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Bihar have already begun exploring export-grade production.
Top Ethanol-Producing States – India 2025
| State | Annual Production (Crore Litres) | Feedstock Used | Export Readiness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 320 | Molasses, maize | High |
| Maharashtra | 280 | Molasses, sugarcane | Moderate |
| Bihar | 160 | Maize, broken rice | High |
| Karnataka | 140 | Molasses | Moderate |
| Punjab | 120 | Maize, rice | High |
Gadkari also linked ethanol exports to India’s broader energy security and rural prosperity goals. “Ethanol empowers farmers, reduces oil imports, and earns forex. It’s a win-win,” he said.
Social media and industry forums responded enthusiastically, with hashtags like #EthanolExports, #GreenFuelIndia, and #GadkariVision trending across platforms. Analysts believe that if India can establish itself as a reliable ethanol exporter, it could add a new dimension to its agri-energy diplomacy.
Public Sentiment – Ethanol Export Push
| Platform | Engagement Level | Sentiment (%) | Top Hashtags |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twitter/X | 1.2M mentions | 86% supportive | #EthanolExports #GreenFuelIndia |
| 980K interactions | 82% optimistic | #GadkariVision #BiofuelEconomy | |
| 860K interactions | 78% proud | #IndiaEnergyFuture #EthanolPush | |
| YouTube | 740K views | 80% curious | #EthanolExplained #IndiaBiofuelRise |
As India prepares to host the Global Biofuels Alliance Summit in early 2026, Gadkari’s call for ethanol exports could become a central theme in India’s energy diplomacy. With surplus production, global demand, and political will converging, India’s ethanol story may soon go global.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available government statements, industry data, and verified media reports. It does not constitute investment or policy advice. All quotes are attributed to public figures and institutions as per coverage. The content is intended for editorial and informational purposes only.
