How Strong Are Indian Pharma Exports at $4.9 Billion in April-May?
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Synopsis
Discover the resilience of India's pharmaceutical industry, which has achieved impressive exports worth $4.9 billion in April-May FY26. With strategies in sustainable manufacturing and digital innovation, the sector is on track to reach a trillion-dollar trade goal. Learn more about the growth dynamics and future potential of this vital industry.
Key Takeaways
- Pharmaceutical exports reached $4.9 billion in April-May FY26.
- 7.38 percent growth compared to the previous year.
- Formulations and biologicals dominate exports, comprising 75.74 percent.
- Vaccine exports increased by 13.64 percent.
- The US is the largest market, accounting for 34.5 percent of total exports.
New Delhi, July 2 (NationPress) The Indian pharmaceutical sector has shown remarkable resilience, registering exports of $4.9 billion for the period of April-May FY26, as reported by the Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil).
Pharmexcil, operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, indicated that this represents a 7.38 percent increase compared to the same timeframe last year. This growth underscores the industry’s robust trajectory and its significant global footprint.
The surge is attributed to strategic measures aimed at sustainable manufacturing, increased global market reach, and innovations in digital technology,” Pharmexcil noted, emphasizing that these initiatives may support India’s ambitious goal of reaching a trillion-dollar trade target within the pharma sector.
According to Namit Joshi, chairman of Pharmexcil, “India’s pharmaceutical exports are consistently achieving year-over-year growth, with drug formulations and biological products leading the export categories.”
“This upward trend can be linked to the rising global demand, efficient regulatory approvals, technological advancements, strategic collaborations, and overall economic stability,” Joshi further explained.
Notably, formulations and biologicals comprised 75.74 percent of total pharmaceutical exports. Additionally, bulk drugs and drug intermediates grew by 4.40 percent in May.
Exports of vaccines experienced a notable 13.64 percent rise, reaching $190.13 million, while surgical items (up 8.58 percent) and Ayush and herbal products (up 7.36 percent) also exhibited healthy growth.
According to Pharmexcil, approximately 76 percent of India's pharmaceutical exports are directed towards the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) region, alongside Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
The United States remains the primary market, with exports valued at $1.7 billion in May, constituting 34.5 percent of total pharma exports, reflecting a 1.5 percent growth.
While Europe and Africa have shown moderate growth, the ASEAN region is emerging as a new focus area.
Joshi remarked that discussions surrounding the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are anticipated to significantly enhance supply chains and improve access to affordable medicines. This will also likely boost foreign direct investment, especially in contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) and joint research.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the significant strides India is making in the pharmaceutical export sector. The growth reported by Pharmexcil not only reflects the resilience of the industry but also positions India as a key player in the global market. The ongoing strategic initiatives highlight the commitment to sustainable practices and innovation, paving the way for a prosperous future.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the value of India's pharmaceutical exports in April-May FY26?
India's pharmaceutical exports reached $4.9 billion during April-May FY26, marking a 7.38 percent increase from the previous year.
What factors contributed to the growth of pharmaceutical exports?
The growth can be attributed to rising global demand, streamlined regulatory approvals, technological innovations, strategic partnerships, and economic stability.
Which products dominate India's pharmaceutical exports?
Drug formulations and biologicals account for 75.74 percent of the total pharmaceutical exports.
What was the growth percentage of vaccine exports?
Vaccine exports saw a significant increase of 13.64 percent, reaching $190.13 million.
What regions are key markets for Indian pharmaceutical exports?
The main destinations for India's pharmaceutical exports include the NAFTA region, Europe, Africa, and Latin America, with the US being the top market.
