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Surat Crowned Global Trade Hub with Record $10.55 Billion Exports

Surat has recorded exports worth $10.55 billion, cementing its status as a major global trade hub. The city's gems and jewellery sector, which processes about 90% of the world's diamonds, constitutes around 70% of its total exports. Its trade network is expanding, with the United States, Hong Kong, and the UAE as its largest partners. To further accelerate growth, the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference will be held in Surat in April to connect local industries with global markets.

Key Points: Surat Hits $10.55B Exports, Becomes Global Trade Hub

  • $10.55B exports in FY 2024-25
  • US is top partner with 32% of exports
  • Processes 90% of world's diamonds
  • Vibrant Gujarat conference in April to boost growth
2 min read

Surat emerges as 'Global Trade Hub' with $10.55 bn exports

Surat's exports hit $10.55B, driven by diamonds & textiles. The US is its top partner. A major trade conference is set for April.

"The Surat region processes around 90 per cent of the world's diamonds - Report"

Gandhinagar, Feb 21

Surat has emerged as a major global trade hub, recording exports of $10.55 billion in the financial year 2024-25.

The city, known for its diamond industry, silk sarees, and textiles, has been a key contributor to Gujarat's export economy, which accounted for over 27 per cent of India's total exports, valued at Rs 9.83 lakh crore during the same period.

The Surat region processes around 90 per cent of the world's diamonds, with the gems and jewellery sector representing roughly 70 per cent of the city's total exports.

Beyond diamonds, Surat has experienced growth in sectors including human-made fibres, organic chemicals, mechanical machinery, technical textiles, and other fabric products.

This diverse industrial base has positioned the city as an important node in the global supply chain.

The United States is Surat's largest trading partner, receiving approximately 32 per cent of exports, followed by Hong Kong at 18 per cent and the United Arab Emirates at 14 per cent.

Trade relations are also expanding with Belgium, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand, reflecting the city's growing presence in international markets.

To further accelerate economic growth, the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) - South Gujarat will be held in Surat in April this year.

The conference will cover the districts of Bharuch, Dang, Navsari, Surat, Tapi, and Valsad, highlighting emerging sectors such as chemicals and petrochemicals, textiles and garments, gems and jewellery, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food processing.

The event will connect local MSME units with international markets, supporting initiatives like 'Vocal for Local' and 'Local for Global.'

In the context of recent trade agreements between India and the European Union and India and the US, South Gujarat is being promoted as a key destination for global investment.

With its production capacity, strategic location, and infrastructure, the region is set to play a significant role in India's export-led development.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone from Surat, I've seen this growth firsthand. The infrastructure is improving, but the city needs to work on traffic and pollution to truly become a world-class hub. Still, very proud moment for all of us!
R
Rohit P
$10.55 billion! That's massive. Shows what happens when entrepreneurship meets good policy. The 'Local for Global' initiative is the right direction. Hope other cities in India can replicate this model.
S
Sarah B
Interesting read. The US being the largest partner at 32% shows strong economic ties. The upcoming conference in April sounds like a great opportunity to attract more foreign investment. Well done, Surat.
A
Ananya R
While the numbers are impressive, I hope this growth is inclusive and creates good jobs for local communities, not just for big industrialists. The MSME focus in the VGRC is a positive step in that direction.
K
Karthik V
90% of the world's diamonds! That's our Surat. But it's good to see they are not putting all eggs in one basket. Technical textiles and pharma are the future. Jai Gujarat! 🙌

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