How India Became One of the Top Frozen French Fries Exporters in The World?

When we compare to five years ago, the french fries export from India has grown significantly from almost ₹217 crores to ₹1,817 crores in FY2025. We were once a net importer of potatoes, and today we are one of the top exporters of potatoes globally, just behind China. But how did this shift happen? Well, it took years of research and the strategic partnership of local farmers and international and local corporations.

In this blog, we explore how India became one of the world's leading exporters of French fries.

Entry of Foreign Manufacturers

It all started when McCain, the largest producer of frozen potatoes in the world, came to India in 1998 to try to build a frozen food market by starting agriculture R&D. In 2007, they set up their first potato processing plant in Mehsana, Gujarat. They quickly became a key supplier of frozen French fries in India and became an exclusive supplier to McDonald’s in India.

The Rise of Local Manufacturers

Looking at the rising popularity of French fries and its foreign manufacturers in India, local companies also started entering the race. Companies such as HyFun Foods, Iscon Balaji Foods, and ChillFill Foods began partnering with local farmers to produce potatoes bred specifically for French fries. These potatoes were low in sugar and high in starch.

Gujarat Becoming the Hub

Gujarat became the hub for cultivating this special variety of potatoes. The long, mildly hot days of Gujarat, with its sunny winters, were perfect for these potatoes.

Contract Farming

Contract farming also changed the lives of local farmers. Their income jumped by an average 75% since 2017. Previously, Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern countries relied on the US and Europe for their frozen French fries demands. With contract farming, special potato processing, and cheaper costs, India became a reliable alternative.

The Role of Indian Scientists

Scientists at the Central Potato Research Institute, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), researched and developed potato varieties with low sugar and high dry matter, which turned out to be perfect for fries that stay crispy and soak less oil.

Conclusion

In February 2025, India crossed the 20,000-tonne mark in frozen french fries exports for the first time, with Gujarat accounting for around 80%. If you are looking for a frozen french fries supplier for your business, you can contact Happiyum. They process potatoes with high-quality machines and comply with various international health standards, making them a top-rated french fries manufacturer in India.