Fact Check: India is the world's largest exporter of human hair.

Fact Check: "India is the world's largest exporter of human hair."

What We Know

India is recognized as the leading exporter of human hair globally. According to data from the OECD, in 2023, India exported approximately $24.5 million worth of human hair, making it the largest exporter among 92 countries. Furthermore, a report from Statista indicates that the export value of human hair and related products from India reached around $700 million in the fiscal year of 2025. This substantial figure underscores India's dominance in the human hair market.

The demand for Indian human hair is significant, accounting for about 93.2% of total human hair exports, as highlighted by a report from The Nation. This indicates not only the volume of exports but also the quality and desirability of Indian human hair in international markets.

Analysis

The claim that India is the world's largest exporter of human hair is supported by multiple credible sources. The data from the OECD and Statista provide quantitative evidence of India's leading position in this market. The reliability of these sources is high, as they are well-regarded for their statistical data and economic analysis.

Additionally, the information aligns with broader economic trends noted in various profiles of India, such as those from The World Factbook and BBC News, which discuss India's diverse export economy and its significant contributions to global trade. These profiles highlight India's unique cultural practices, including the ritualistic shaving of heads in temples, which contributes to the availability of human hair for export.

While the claim is well-supported, it is important to consider the context of the human hair trade, including ethical considerations surrounding sourcing and the impact on local communities. However, these factors do not detract from the factual accuracy of India's status as the largest exporter.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The evidence clearly supports the claim that India is the world's largest exporter of human hair. With substantial export values and a significant share of the global market, India's position is well-documented and corroborated by multiple reliable sources.