India's Export Resilience Amid Global Trade Challenges

India's exports grew marginally despite global trade uncertainties, with a recorded growth of 1.87% in December 2025, reaching USD 38.5 billion. Imports increased by 8.7%, widening the trade deficit to USD 25 billion. Key sectors like engineering and pharmaceuticals contributed to export growth, amidst high US tariffs impacting labor-intensive trades.

India's export sector demonstrated resilience in December 2025 amid worldwide economic uncertainties, achieving a 1.87 percent growth to USD 38.5 billion. This increase slightly widened the nation's trade deficit to USD 25 billion, with imports rising by 8.7 percent to USD 63.55 billion according to government data released on Thursday.

Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal highlighted that despite global disruptions caused by US tariffs—particularly impacting labor-intensive sectors such as apparel—India's merchandise exports rose cumulatively by 2.44 percent during April-December of the current fiscal year. The sectors notably contributing to this growth include engineering, electronics, marine, and pharmaceuticals.

Market diversification, free trade agreements, and export promotion missions are aiding exporters in countering high tariffs. Key commodity exports to regions like China, Russia, and the Middle East are maintaining robust momentum, while oil and silver imports have shown significant increases.

(With inputs from agencies.)