Exports Slide Amid Global Tensions: Indian Trade Navigates Rough Waters

Indian exports fell sharply by 7.44% in March due to the West Asia crisis, while imports decreased over 6%, narrowing the trade deficit to a nine-month low. Despite challenges, India's fiscal year exports hit a record high, showing resilience amid global disruptions.

In March, Indian exports suffered their most significant decline in five months, plummeting by 7.44% to USD 38.92 billion, official data revealed on Wednesday.

The downturn was primarily driven by the ongoing crisis in West Asia, which also caused imports to decrease by over 6%. This simultaneous drop in exports and imports helped narrow the trade deficit to a nine-month low of USD 20.67 billion, despite a notable decline in crude oil and gold imports.

Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal reported that Indian exports reached an all-time high for the fiscal year, suggesting the resilience of the country's exporters amid global challenges. However, the conflict in West Asia continues to pose threats to trade continuity, particularly with the Middle East.

(With inputs from agencies.)