Are Record Export Figures a Testimony to the Resilience of Indian Exporters?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Record exports demonstrate the resilience of Indian exporters.
- Growth of 5.94 percent compared to last year.
- Successful market diversification strategies are in place.
- Focus on product innovation is crucial for future growth.
- Support for MSMEs is essential for sustaining momentum.
New Delhi, July 15 (NationPress) The level of Indian exports (both merchandise and services) achieved an unprecedented $210.31 billion during the April-June timeframe, rising from $198 billion in the corresponding period last year. This impressive achievement reflects the resilience and agility of Indian exporters, as noted by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) on Tuesday.
According to data from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, cumulative exports for April-June 2025 are projected at $210.31 billion, compared to $198.52 billion in April-June 2024, showcasing an estimated growth of 5.94 percent.
SC Ralhan, President of FIEO, emphasized that this exceptional performance has been achieved despite numerous global challenges, including geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and tariff uncertainties.
Ralhan pointed out that the reduction in the trade deficit and the increase in exports, particularly to the US, indicate the effectiveness of India’s market diversification strategies and its emphasis on product innovation.
"Our exporters are clearly rising to the occasion and delivering, even in an unsettled global trade environment," he remarked.
Additionally, the significant decline in imports may highlight the success of import substitution initiatives and the bolstering of domestic manufacturing capabilities, aligning with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision.
To sustain this momentum, the FIEO President underscored the necessity for ongoing support to MSMEs through timely implementation and expansion of the Interest Equalisation Scheme; expediting Free Trade Agreements and Bilateral Trade Agreements, particularly with major markets like the United States, to improve market access.
He also mentioned the importance of simplifying and fully digitizing trade procedures to lower costs and enhance efficiency, as well as optimizing e-commerce export processes by addressing operational and procedural challenges to facilitate faster growth.
Looking ahead, he called on the government to maintain a focused export strategy, especially concerning services.
"With India's digital capabilities and skilled workforce, there exists tremendous potential to amplify services exports. Investment in digital infrastructure, talent development, and targeted international promotion will be crucial to sustaining this upward trend," stated Ralhan.
The industry chamber PHDCCI reported that key sectors like electronic goods experienced a remarkable 46.9 percent increase in June, while drugs and pharmaceuticals saw a growth of 5.95 percent, and engineering goods rose by 1.35 percent.
Hemant Jain, President of PHDCCI, noted that India’s trade relations demonstrated significant growth with key partners including the US, China, France, Brazil, and Kenya on the export side, while imports from Ireland, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand increased substantially.
"This diversified and broad-based trade growth signals a healthy trajectory for India’s external sector and the rising global demand for Indian electronics, pharmaceuticals, and agro-based products," he concluded.