New Delhi [India], April 15 (ANI): India’s exports reached a record high in FY 2025–26, with combined merchandise and services shipments crossing the $860 billion mark for the first time, reflecting sustained momentum and a stronger position in global trade.
According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, cumulative exports of merchandise and services stood at $860.09 billion during April–March FY26, compared to $825.26 billion in FY25, marking a 4.22 percent year-on-year increase.
Merchandise exports, while growing at a slower pace, still recorded an increase. Outbound shipments of goods reached $441.78 billion in FY26, up from $437.70 billion in the previous fiscal, registering a 0.93 percent rise. The fiscal year ended on a strong note, with March 2026 recording merchandise exports of $38.92 billion, the highest monthly figure of the year.
The surge at the end of the fiscal year was driven by core industrial sectors and resource-based exports. Petroleum products remained a major contributor, supported by steady global demand and India’s strong refining capacity. Engineering goods also played a key role, reflecting continued demand for machinery, automobile components, and industrial equipment.
“Major drivers of merchandise export growth in March 2026 include petroleum products, engineering goods, mica, coal and other ores, minerals including processed minerals, other cereals, and handicrafts excluding handmade carpets,” the ministry said in a post on X, adding that these sectors continue to significantly contribute to India’s export expansion.
The minerals segment recorded notable gains, with exports of mica, coal, and other ores, along with processed minerals, rising 11.27 percent to $0.58 billion in March 2026 from $0.52 billion a year earlier, indicating increased value addition and sustained demand.
Exports of other cereals and handicrafts also supported growth, highlighting the resilience of agriculture-linked and artisanal sectors alongside industrial exports.
While services exports remained the primary driver behind the overall record, merchandise trade maintained positive growth despite global uncertainties. The March surge indicates improved supply chain activity and stronger order flows toward the end of the fiscal year, with petroleum and engineering goods providing scale, and minerals, cereals, and handicrafts contributing to diversification in India’s export basket. (ANI)
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