Trade Imbalance: CRISIL's Warnings on India-US Export Challenges

CRISIL warns of stronger headwinds impacting India's merchandise exports due to the US-India trade impasse and potential American levies on Russian crude oil purchases. Despite challenges, India's current account deficit remains stable, supported by a robust services trade surplus and healthy remittances.

CRISIL, a prominent ratings firm, has highlighted significant challenges facing India's merchandise exports, warning about stronger headwinds arising from the prolonged US-India trade negotiations and looming American tariffs related to Russian crude oil purchases.

In its comprehensive report, CRISIL pointed out that commodities like tea and basmati rice are at risk, owing to a 25 percent tariff imposed by the US on countries trading with Iran. Despite these hurdles, the current account deficit (CAD) is predicted to remain manageable, thanks to a strong services trade surplus, solid remittance flows, and easing crude oil prices.

While India's merchandise exports lag behind imports, resulting in a widening trade deficit, export growth to the US notably decelerated. Nevertheless, the US continues to be India's primary export market, led by strong smartphone shipments from the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)