How is India's Export Surge Demonstrating Resilience Amid Global Uncertainties?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Exports surged by 15.52% in November 2025.
- Trade deficit reduced by over 61%.
- Pharmaceutical exports grew by 20.19%.
- Gems and jewelry exports increased by 27.8%.
- Engineering goods remain a strong export sector.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) Fueled by a commitment to diversification, innovation, and strategic trade reforms, India continues to enhance its exports even amidst global market uncertainties, as stated by government officials on Thursday.
This growth underscores India's resilience, characterized by high-value commodities, expanding global partnerships, and policy reforms that promote a more balanced and globally integrated trade framework in response to challenges posed by the US tariff situation.
The report highlighted that India has signed multiple significant Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), including the latest Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman, while negotiations with several other nations are actively progressing. This is anticipated to further diversify exports, thereby bolstering trade stability, competitiveness, and long-term economic security in an unpredictable global environment.
In November, India’s exports surged by an impressive 15.52 percent, reaching $73.99 billion, up from $64.05 billion in November 2024. Consequently, the trade deficit shrank by over 61 percent, decreasing from $17.06 billion to $6.64 billion, as per official statistics from the Commerce Ministry.
India's trade agreements with various economies reinforce its commitment to inclusive growth, benefiting farmers, artisans, workers, and MSMEs while prioritizing core national interests. The recent India-Oman agreement enhances longstanding bilateral relations, establishing a forward-thinking and balanced economic framework, according to the statement.
Export growth was observed across major merchandise and services sectors, driven by consistent demand from key partner countries. This performance highlights the resilience of India’s export sector amid changing global trade dynamics.
Merchandise exports in November 2025 climbed to $38.13 billion, increasing from $31.94 billion in November 2024, marking a 19.38 percent annual growth.
Services exports for November 2025 rose to $35.86 billion, compared to $32.11 billion in November 2024, reflecting an 11.67 percent growth year-over-year.
During November 2025, merchandise exports accounted for 51.53 percent of total exports, while services contributed 48.47 percent.
Readymade garments, a labor-intensive sector, continue to show positive contributions, with exports rising to $1,247.37 million, reflecting an 11.27 percent increase compared to the previous year.
India’s pharmaceutical sector, known as the Pharmacy of the World, witnessed a 20.19 percent growth in exports over the year, reaching over 200 countries, including highly regulated markets like the US, Western Europe, Japan, and Australia, demonstrating sectoral diversification.
Gems and jewelry exports also recorded a significant 27.8 percent growth in November. Indian jewelry, renowned for its craftsmanship, design, and cultural richness, is increasingly sought after in key markets such as the US, UAE, Hong Kong, and Europe, particularly for gold, diamond, and colored gemstone jewelry.
India has experienced a substantial rise in petroleum product exports over the last decade, ranking as the seventh-largest exporter of refined petroleum products globally and among the top five refining nations. The growth in exports for November is estimated at 11.65 percent, with primary destinations in South Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Engineering goods, a traditional cornerstone of India’s exports, have shown consistent growth, with the US as the leading destination, followed closely by the UAE, Germany, the UK, and Saudi Arabia. To maintain this momentum, the government has implemented initiatives like Zero Duty EPCG and the Market Access Initiative (MAI) to support exporters and enhance overseas revenues, according to the statement.