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India's Exports Hit $38.5B in Dec, On Track for $850B FY Target

India's merchandise exports climbed to $38.51 billion in December, showing resilience amid global economic uncertainties. The services sector posted a strong trade surplus of $18.12 billion, though the merchandise trade deficit widened slightly. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal stated that overall exports are growing and the country is on track to hit an $850 billion export target for the fiscal year. The government is actively pursuing trade pacts, including with the EU, and has launched new initiatives to support MSME exporters with finance and market access.

Key Points: India's December Exports Rise to $38.51 Billion

  • Merchandise exports rise to $38.51B
  • Services trade surplus at $18.12B
  • FY26 export target set at $850B
  • Talks advance on India-EU FTA
  • New schemes launched to boost MSME exports
2 min read

India's merchandise exports rise to $38.51 billion in December despite global uncertainties

India's merchandise exports grew in December despite global headwinds. Commerce Ministry data shows a rising trade surplus in services and ongoing FTA talks.

"India's overall exports have risen by 4.33 per cent in the first nine months of the current financial year - Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal"

New Delhi, Jan 15

India's merchandise exports rose to $38.51 billion in December from $38.13 billion in November despite the uncertainties in the global market triggered by the US tariff turmoil and geopolitical tensions, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce on Thursday.

The government data showed December services exports were estimated at $35.50 billion and imports at $17.38 billion, suggesting a services trade surplus of $18.12 billion.

However, merchandise imports rose to $63.55 billion from $62.66 billion, which led to a marginal widening of the merchandise trade deficit to $25.04 billion.

Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said that India's overall exports have risen by 4.33 per cent in the first nine months of the current financial year, and total exports for FY26 are set to touch the $850 billion mark.

In addition, India's exports to the US increased 9.8 per cent during April-December of FY26 compared to the same period of the previous year.

As part of the strategy to diversify exports, India is forging new trade partnerships with friendly countries, while talks with the US to resolve the tariff deadlock are also ongoing.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday listed the trade talks with the EU in Brussels and the rollout of the Export Promotion Mission in a round-up of "major highlights" from his Ministry in the last 10 days.

"Held a productive dialogue with the European Union Trade and Economic Security Commissioner, Mr Maros Sefcovic, in Brussels. We conducted detailed deliberations on key areas of the proposed India-EU FTA. Also emphasised the strategic importance of concluding a fair, balanced, and ambitious agreement that aligns with their shared values, economic priorities, and commitment to a rules-based trading framework," the minister said.

He further stated that he visited Liechtenstein and reviewed the implementation of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement.

Besides, the minister highlighted that as part of the initial rollout of the Export Promotion Mission, two key interventions under the NIRYAT PROTSAHAN sub-scheme have been launched to strengthen MSME exports and improve access to trade finance. These interventions will lower the cost of exporting for MSMEs, give them improved cash flow and liquidity, encourage them to explore new export markets, give easier access to bank loans to MSME exporters, make them less dependent on property or asset collateral and boost export growth, especially among small firms.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The numbers look good, but the widening trade deficit is a concern. Imports are rising faster. We need to become more self-reliant in key sectors to reduce our import bill. 'Make in India' needs to translate into 'Export from India' more effectively.
P
Priyanka N
The services trade surplus is the real hero here! Almost $18 billion surplus is incredible. It shows our IT, software, and professional services are world-class. Hope the government continues to nurture this sector with good policies.
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Aman W
Good to see the push for FTAs with the EU and EFTA. We need to diversify our markets and not rely too much on any single country. These agreements can open doors for our textiles, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods. Jai Hind!
K
Karthik V
The rise in exports to the US by 9.8% is impressive despite the tariff talks. Shows the resilience of our exporters. Hope the ongoing negotiations resolve the issues soon. Lowering costs for MSMEs to export is a much-needed step. 👍
M
Michael C
While the headline number is positive, a note of caution. The global economic environment is still very fragile. We need to be prepared for potential shocks. The government's proactive diplomacy on trade is a good strategy in these times.

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