What Are India’s Human Hair Export Trends & Global Demand?

Human hair gathered in India is in great demand all over the world. From temples where hair is donated to salons where hair is collected, India has transformed hair into a billion-dollar industry. In fact, in the fiscal year 2015 to 2025, the value of human hair and related products exported from India amounted to approximately 700 million US dollars. 

If you’re planning a human hair export business, it’s your chance to grow. Whether you collect hair from salons, run a small trading unit, or are just starting out, the global market is already looking for what you can supply. The challenge often lies in finding the right buyers, setting competitive prices, and handling export paperwork. 

In this blog, we will examine where the industry is at the moment, the global position of India, the key success factors, and how platforms such as CargoX simplify the shipping process for exporters. 

What Is the Current State of the Human Hair Export Industry in India?

The human hair export business in India is enormous, and it is increasing annually. The company is backed by two principal sources:

1. Temple donations: In most temples, particularly in South India, such as Tirupati, devotees donate their hair as a religious offering. This hair is then washed, sorted, and ready to export.
2. Salon and household collection: In cities and villages, hair is collected at salons or even homes and sold to exporters.

In 2023, India exported human hair and associated products worth $187.9 million, including extensions, wigs, and processed hair. So, why is Indian hair sought after? 

• It looks and feels natural.
• Remy hair (roots and tips aligned) is perfect for high-end extensions.
• India’s huge supply enables the sellers to provide hair in every quality and price segment.

Which Metrics Define the Success of Human Hair Export from India?

India’s success in human hair export is not just about shipment volumes. Key indicators that show whether the business is growing, stable, or struggling include:

1. Value and Volume of Exports

The initial point of consideration is the amount of money that India is earning through exports of human hair (called export value) and the amount that is being exported (called export volume). A steady rise in both signals a strong and expanding market.

2. Top Buyer Countries

Success is also reflected in buyer diversity. The USA, China, UAE, and Malaysia remain major importers, and entry into new markets shows healthy global demand.

3. Quality and Reputation

Indian hair is valued for its shine, strength, and durability. Consistent repeat orders highlight global trust and reinforce India’s reputation as the industry leader.

4. Price Per Kilogram

Another very strong indicator is price trends. A few years back, raw human hair was sold as low as 5 dollars per kilogram. In the current market, high-quality Indian hair can be sold at a price of over 65 dollars per kilogram. This leap indicates the high value of Indian hair in the international market.

Which Countries Lead in Human Hair Export, Alongside India?

India is not the only country in the race, but it is the biggest one. Let’s examine others:

• China: China is primarily known to export synthetic hair products, with limited natural human hair.
• Myanmar: Myanmar is a minor exporter of raw hair, and competes in low-cost markets.
• Indonesia: Indonesia exports natural human hair, but in much smaller volumes than India.

While these countries play a role, none match India’s dominance. Cultural practices like temple donations and well-organised collection systems give India a unique and lasting advantage.

How can Strategic Filters Enhance Human Hair Export Market Research?

If you sell or export hair, knowing the market is important. The hard part is figuring out what actually matters. This is where smart filters come in handy:

• Country-Wise Demand: This information helps an exporter to know which country consumes the highest amount of hair. For example, the USA and Europe have an enormous demand for wigs and extensions.
• Product Type: There are buyers who prefer raw hair and others who prefer processed hair. This can be identified to enable exporters to provide the appropriate product.
• Price Trends: Monitoring the price changes in various markets will enable the exporters to be competitive.
• Trade Regulations: Every country has its own import regulations. Knowledge of these filters will facilitate customs clearance.
• Buyer Profiles: Exporters can target salons, wig manufacturers, or beauty product companies based on the demand.

These filters can help exporters save time, reduce expenses, and maximise profits. This information also helps even small businesses make good choices. Let’s say you see Nigeria buying more wigs. You can then get ready to sell your goods there.

How does CargoX Help Simplify Human Hair Export Shipping Processes?

Shipping can be a real pain for small exporters. All the papers, rules, and keeping track of things can be too much. 

That’s where CargoX comes in. It offers intelligent digital solutions to manage the shipping process. Some of the ways through which it assists are as follows:

• Quick Documentation: Export documentation can be time-consuming. CargoX speeds this up and makes it easier.
• Blockchain Security: This makes all the documents safe, original, and tamper-proof.
• Cost Saving: The exporters save on courier fees and manual work through the digital tools.
• Transparency: Exporters are able to monitor the location of their shipment at any time.
• International Reputation: CargoX is globally recognised, which enables Indian exporters to establish good international contacts.

To human hair exporters, this implies less stress, fewer delays, and more time to expand their business.

Conclusion

For many business owners and local traders, exports often feel like something only large companies in big cities can manage. But did you know that one of India’s fastest-growing export industries, human hair, already relies heavily on collectors, processors, and traders from smaller towns and villages? 

From temple donations to salon collections, Indian human hair has grown into a billion-dollar global business with strong demand in the USA, Europe, and Asia.

For you, this is not just another export story. It is a chance to scale your business beyond local markets.