Topic
Import/Export
Trade India’s Merchandise Exports Rise 15 Percent Despite Red Sea Crisis and Global Turmoil, Says Minister
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced that India's merchandise exports have grown 15% during the April-July period of the current financial year, despite the Red Sea crisis and global turmoil. Delivering the JRD Tata Memorial Lecture 2026, Goyal attributed the resilience to strong economic fundamentals, even as businesses face uncertainty from West Asia conflicts and shipping disruptions. India also retained its status as the world's fastest-growing major economy with 7.7% growth in the previous financial year.
Trade India Smartphone Exports Surge 23% to $9.8 Billion in Q1 Driven by iPhone Shipments
According to Business-Today, India's smartphone exports rose 23.4% year-on-year to $9.8 billion in the first quarter (April-June), the highest ever. The growth was driven by strong iPhone shipments to the US, which accounted for 71% of export value in April-May. Industry estimates project exports could reach $35 billion in FY27, up from $29 billion in FY26.
Trade Value Added Coffee Exports from India Rise 46% to $686 Million in 2025-26
India's exports of value added coffee rose by 46.58% over three years, reaching $686 million in 2025-26, according to Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada. Overall coffee exports hit $2.083 billion, with Karnataka as the largest exporter and producer. The Coffee Board promotes freeze-dried instant coffee under the 'Coffees of India' logo.
Trade Uttarakhand Exports First Frozen French Fries Consignment to Iraq via APEDA
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first export of 24 metric tonnes of frozen french fries from Uttarakhand to Iraq. The consignment, shipped by Virun Global Trade Pvt. Ltd. from Kashipur, marks a milestone for value-added agricultural exports from the landlocked state. APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev noted that logistics costs affect competitiveness and that APEDA is working with the Uttarakhand government on transport assistance under the State Agri-Export Policy.
Trade US-Mexico Cross-Border Trade Hits $87.2B in May, Led by Laredo Port Surge
Mexico remained the largest US trading partner in May 2026, with two-way trade of $87.23 billion, a 17.06% increase from May 2025. Port Laredo was the busiest gateway, handling $36.33 billion in trade. Germany's Döhler Group invested $64 million in a new Mexico plant to support exports.
Trade China's Exports Surge 27% in June on AI Boom, Trade Surplus Widens to $125.6 Billion
China's exports surged 27% year-on-year in June, far exceeding expectations, driven by booming AI-related product and semiconductor demand, according to customs data. Imports rose 36%, partly due to higher costs from the Iran conflict, widening the trade surplus to $125.6 billion from $105.4 billion in May.
Trade APEDA Facilitates First Biscuit Export from Varanasi to Oman Under India-Oman CEPA
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever biscuit export from Varanasi to Oman under the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The 40-tonne shipment, manufactured by Shree Tirupati Balajee Industries, marks a milestone for processed food exports from eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Trade Government proposes simplified drug import rules to boost pharma R&D
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945, to simplify import of drugs for examination, test or analysis via an acknowledgement-based system, exempting small quantities for non-clinical testing from prior licensing. The move follows a similar domestic reform in January 2026 and aims to boost pharmaceutical R&D and ease of doing business. A draft notification has been placed for stakeholder consultation.
Trade Afghanistan likely to boost direct Basmati rice imports from India amid Pakistan tensions
Indian and Afghan traders will meet next month to expand direct Basmati rice trade after preliminary discussions facilitated by the PHD Chamber of Commerce. Afghanistan, which consumes 0.5 million tonnes of Basmati annually, is diversifying away from traditional Pakistani supplies due to bilateral tensions. Direct imports from India via Iran's Bandar Abbas port are under consideration, though diplomatic recognition issues remain a hurdle.
Trade China emerges as key growth driver for India's frozen shrimp exports; US remains top market in FY26
India's frozen shrimp exports hit an all-time high in FY 2025-26, with the US remaining the largest market at USD 1.61 billion. China emerged as a key growth driver, with exports valued at USD 941.6 million. The government is diversifying destinations and strengthening sector competitiveness.
Trade Superplum plans export of mangoes and lychees to global markets, says founder
Superplum, an Indian fresh produce brand and agtech company, plans to export mangoes and lychees to international markets, according to founder and CEO Shobit Gupta. The company aims to increase India's 0.4% share in global mango trade and capitalise on its position as the world's second-largest lychee producer. Despite challenges with exports to Japan, Superplum sees opportunity in demonstrating the quality of Indian fruits abroad.
Trade US overtakes China as largest buyer of Indian spices in FY26 as Chinese demand plunges
In FY26, the United States overtook China as the largest buyer of Indian spices by value, with exports to the US reaching $624.35 million. Overall Indian spice exports declined 6.1% to $4,430 million, driven by a 32% drop in shipments to China as the country boosted domestic chilli and cumin production.
Trade Automobiles Drive India's Export Growth to Japan, Rubix Data Sciences Report Shows
A new report by Rubix Data Sciences reveals that automobiles are the largest contributor to India's export growth to Japan. India's goods exports increased from USD 4.4 billion in FY21 to USD 6.2 billion in FY25, while imports rose from USD 10.9 billion to USD 18.9 billion, widening the trade deficit. The report also highlights strong Japanese investment interest, with 81.5% of Japanese firms planning to expand operations in India.
Trade Indian Exporters See US Enquiries Rise but Order Conversions Lag Amid Tariff Uncertainty
Indian exporters of chemicals, textiles, carpets and leather goods are seeing increased enquiries from US clients, but orders remain low due to uncertainty over Section 301 tariffs and US policy unpredictability. The 10% US tariffs expire on July 24, while trade negotiations continue and additional duties are proposed.
Trade India’s coffee exports volumes rise 28% in Q1, value up 12% on higher demand
India’s coffee exports recorded strong growth in the April-June quarter of FY27, with volumes rising 28% to 1.3 lakh tonnes and value increasing 12% to $678 million, driven by European demand. Higher freight rates and the West Asian crisis weighed on realisations, but a weaker rupee helped offset the impact.
Trade India Targets $1 Trillion in Exports This Fiscal Year, Says Piyush Goyal
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced a target of $1 trillion in exports for the current fiscal year, up from $863 billion last year. Goods exports must grow 17% to $530 billion, and services 11% to $470 billion. The minister also noted operational FTAs with Oman and UAE, and an expected India-UK deal by July 15.
Trade India Tightens Scrutiny of Chinese Herbicide Imports Amid Anti-Absorption Review
India's Department of Revenue has tightened scrutiny on imports of Chinese herbicide glufosinate, directing customs to provisionally assess all imports pending an anti-absorption review by the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR). Importers must furnish financial guarantees for potential additional duties. Separately, anti-dumping duties on butyl alcohol from the US, Malaysia, and South Africa were extended for five years.
Trade Indian Government Denies Offering E20 Petrol Exports to Bhutan, Calls Reports Incorrect
The Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas dismissed reports that Bhutan had refused to import E20 petrol from India, stating no such offer was ever made. The clarification followed allegations by the Congress party that Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka had rejected India's ethanol-blended fuel. The government also defended the fuel's reliability, citing extensive testing by Indian institutions.
Trade Australia suspends 60% of Indian fumigation service providers, raising export costs
Australia has suspended the licences of 60 per cent of Indian fumigation service providers, affecting 44 companies, after an audit by Australian biosecurity authorities. The suspension, effective last week, could force exporters to pay additional refumigation costs of A$700 to A$1,200 per container upon arrival in Australia. India's agri-exports to Australia exceed $500 million annually, with Basmati rice as the top export at $79 million.
Trade India's Auto Parts Exports to US Hold Strong Despite Section 301 Probe, Trade Deficit Emerges
India's auto component exports to the US remained robust in FY26, with the US accounting for 26% of total exports. Despite a USTR Section 301 investigation into alleged unfair practices, the industry posted 5% export growth to $24 billion. However, a trade deficit of $1.4 billion emerged as imports outpaced exports, with China the top import source at 36%.
Trade EU crackdown on small parcels: New customs rules and fees take effect July 1
The European Union’s new customs rules for low-value parcels took effect July 1, eliminating the duty exemption for goods under €150 and imposing a flat €3 fee per product category. A further processing fee of €2–3 is expected in November. The measures target e-commerce imports from China, with volume rising 314% since 2022 to $5.8 billion in 2025. Early data shows freighter capacity from China to Europe fell 19% in 48 hours.
Trade India targets $100 billion textile exports by 2030, focus on sustainability, FTAs
India targets $100 billion in textile exports by 2030, with a focus on sustainability and leveraging free trade agreements. Union Minister Giriraj Singh and commerce officials outlined the strategy at a two-day summit, emphasizing traceability, recycling, and district-level export hubs.
Trade Exports up 15% so far in June quarter despite global headwinds, says Piyush Goyal
India's exports have recorded a 15% increase so far in the June quarter, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. The announcement was made against the backdrop of global economic headwinds, though no sectoral or value breakouts were provided.
Trade Exports Rise 15% in Apr-Jun 14 Despite Global Uncertainties, Says Piyush Goyal
India's exports recorded 15% growth in April, May, and the first 14 days of June 2026, according to Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, despite 50% US tariffs. May exports hit a six-month high of $45.2 billion with a trade deficit of $28.21 billion. Minister also urged a cleanliness campaign in his Mumbai North constituency.
Trade India's Exports Surge 15% Despite US Tariffs; Trade Talks With US Set to Begin
India's merchandise exports recorded a robust 15% year-on-year growth in April-June 2026, defying US tariff impositions. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced the data and confirmed that bilateral trade talks with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will commence on June 23-24 in Delhi to finalize a trade agreement framework.
Trade Exports Up 15% Despite 50% US Tariffs, Says Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal
Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal reported that India's exports grew 15% in the period covering April, May, and the first 14 days of June, despite the US imposing 50% tariffs. May exports reached a six-month high of $45.2 billion. Bilateral trade negotiations with the US are slated for June 23-24 in Delhi, focusing on finalising a framework deal.
Trade India's goods exports rise 15% in first 2.5 months of FY2026-27, driven by oil and FTA push
India's goods exports grew nearly 15% in the first two-and-a-half months of FY2026-27, according to commerce minister Piyush Goyal. The growth is aided by strong oil exports and the expected operationalisation of several free trade agreements, including the UK FTA from July 15, 2026, and the EU FTA by early 2027. Talks with the US, Canada, Kenya, and the South African Customs Union are also underway.
Trade India Exports First Dried Whole Egg Powder Shipment from Odisha to Austria
APEDA, under India's Ministry of Commerce & Industry, facilitated the first-ever commercial export of dried whole egg powder from Balangir, Odisha, to Austria. The 22.6 metric tonne consignment, exported by OVO Farm Pvt Ltd, signals growing global acceptance of Indian value-added poultry products and opens new avenues for processed egg exports to premium markets.
Trade Kerala Budget Proposes Dedicated Gold Corridor in Kochi-Thrissur Belt to Boost Jewellery Trade
The Kerala state budget, announced by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, proposes a dedicated gold corridor in the Kochi–Thrissur belt to strengthen jewellery manufacturing and establish a gold exchange hub. The initiative, backed by a ₹10 crore allocation, aims to leverage Kerala's position as the largest gold-consuming state and create skilled employment. Industry leaders from Kalyan Jewellers and the Kerala Gold and Silver Merchants' Association have welcomed the move, noting its potential to attract back gold manufacturers who migrated to other states.
Trade India initiates sustainability certification framework for exports to meet EU, UK compliance norms
India is creating new sustainability certification standards for its export products to meet growing demands from developed nations, particularly the EU and UK. The commerce ministry is gathering data from export-oriented sectors to develop a credible framework that ensures global acceptance. This initiative aims to boost the competitiveness of Indian goods in international markets.
Trade Facing African hurdles, Indian rice exports value down 10% in FY26
Indian rice exports value declined over 10% in FY26 to $5.86 billion, according to APEDA, despite a 6.5% volume increase. African region hurdles including forex shortages, policy uncertainty, and competition from Thailand and Pakistan dragged shipments. Exporters struggled to regain market share after India's export ban was lifted in late 2024.
Trade India’s first export of fresh Uttarakhand Litchi to Italy marks entry into European market
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first export of fresh Uttarakhand litchi from Dehradun to Italy on June 18, 2026, comprising 1 metric tonne. Dehradun litchi is known for its sweetness, aroma, and varieties like Rose Scented, Calcuttia, and Bedana. The export has yielded farmers prices approximately 25% higher than domestic market rates.
Trade Peace in West Asia Expected to Boost Order Book of Indian Exporters: Industry Body FIEO
The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) stated that the restoration of peace in West Asia after the US-Iran war is expected to revive Indian exporters' order books and reduce input costs. FIEO President SC Ralhan highlighted the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and currency stabilization as key benefits, making exports to the EU, US, and West Africa more competitive.
Trade India’s agri export promotion shifts to value-added products and niche markets globally
India's agricultural export promotion strategy is pivoting from traditional cereal exports to value-added products and niche markets. The number of HS 8-digit products exported grew from 298 in FY2014–15 to 438 in FY2025–26, while processed and value-added product shares have steadily increased. The three-way diversification in products, markets, and value addition has made India's agri export sector more resilient.
Trade PM Modi and Trump Direct Officials to Fast-Track 'Commercially Meaningful' Trade Pact
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump directed officials to fast-track a 'commercially meaningful' trade pact during their G7 Summit meeting. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will visit India next week to advance negotiations. The leaders reaffirmed the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and reviewed progress under the COMPACT initiative.
Trade India Exports Hit Record $863 Billion in FY26 Despite US Tariffs and West Asia Crisis
India's total exports reached an all-time high of $863 billion in the 2025-26 fiscal year, nearly doubling from about $441 billion a decade ago, despite disruptions from US tariffs and the West Asia conflict, according to a senior Commerce Ministry official. Engineering goods, petroleum products, electronics, pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, and chemicals were key drivers, with Gujarat contributing nearly $110 billion. The government continues to promote special economic zones (SEZs) including a new Tata Semiconductor unit in Dholera.
Trade US buyers keen to stitch deals with Indian apparel exporters
Despite strong interest from US buyers, Indian apparel exporters face pricing pressure with discounts demanded up to 10%. India's readymade garment exports fell for the sixth straight month in May 2026, down 14.1% year-on-year, primarily due to weak US demand. Competing sourcing destinations like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia are outperforming India, though Free Trade Agreements with the UK and Europe offer some relief.
Trade India's gold imports surge 81.7% in April as duty hike fails to curb demand
India's gold imports jumped 81.7% year-on-year to $5.63 billion in April 2026, just before the government raised import duties on 13 May. Even after the duty hike, imports rose 34% in May to $3.42 billion, according to a GTRI report. The total effective tax burden now stands at about 18.4%.
Trade India's Exports Rise 18% to 6-Month High of $45.2 Billion in May, Trade Deficit Widens
India's merchandise exports rose 18% year-on-year to a record $45.2 billion in May, the highest in six months. However, the trade deficit widened to $28.21 billion as imports surged 20.62% to $73.41 billion, led by petroleum, crude oil, and gold. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal expressed optimism for FY27 if momentum continues, noting recovery from the West Asia crisis and expanded export base.
Trade India's Export Outlook Challenging for FY27, but Worst Is Over: Elara Securities
Elara Securities reported that India's export outlook for FY27 remains challenging but the worst is over, as May trade data showed a 16% YoY rise in overall exports to nearly $82 billion. The report highlighted a divergence in export performance to the US versus other countries, and noted that softer crude oil prices and potential freight cost moderation could help normalize the import bill. However, concerns persist over the widening electronics trade deficit.
Trade India's Goods Exports Hit Record $45.2 Billion in May, Imports at 7-Month High
India’s goods exports reached a record $45.2 billion in May, up 18% year-on-year, driven by engineering goods and oil products. Imports rose 20.5% to $73.4 billion, a seven-month high, widening the trade deficit to $28.2 billion. Commerce secretary Rajesh Agrawal cited higher oil prices, supply chain restoration, and normalising shipments to West Asia.
Trade Gold Imports Rise 34% to $3.41 Billion in May; Silver Shipments Plunge Over 86%
India's gold imports rose 34% year-on-year to $3.41 billion in May 2026, while silver imports plunged over 86% to $75.57 million, following the government's import duty hike on precious metals from 6% to 15% effective May 13. The rise in gold imports pushed the trade deficit to $28.21 billion. Switzerland remained the top gold source with about 40% share, though imports from Switzerland dropped 57.73% in May.
Trade India's engineering exports jump 24% to USD 12.31 billion in May, EEPC reports as sector adapts to West Asia disruptions
India's engineering exports jumped 24% year-on-year to USD 12.31 billion in May 2026, according to EEPC India. Cumulative exports for April-May 2026-27 stood at USD 22.66 billion, a 16.8% increase over the same period last year. EEPC Chairman Pankaj Chadha highlighted the sector's adaptability amid West Asia conflict and noted that challenges persist despite the US-Iran peace deal announcement.
Trade India's Exports to US Flat in May 2025 as Imports Surge 54.43%
India's exports to the US remained flat at USD 8.82 billion in May 2025, while imports surged 54.43% to USD 3.8 billion. Overall bilateral trade data for April-May 2026-27 shows marginal export growth and significant import increase. Trade with China also saw notable shifts, with exports up 24.8% and imports up 23.4%.
Trade Dell's XPS RTX Spark Desktop Mini PC Aims to Challenge Apple's Mac Studio with 128GB RAM and Nvidia Arm CPU
Dell has unveiled the XPS RTX Spark Desktop, a compact mini PC powered by Nvidia's Arm-based RTX Spark processor. With up to 128GB RAM, it targets professional AI use and could compete with Apple's Mac Studio, which faces order lead times of four months or more. Pricing is not yet confirmed but chatter suggests north of $4,000.
Trade Sigma Advanced Systems Secures Rs 208 Crore Artillery Shell Bodies Export Order from North America
Sigma Advanced Systems has secured a US$21.97 million (approx Rs 208 crore) export order to manufacture and supply 40,000 units of 155 mm M107 artillery shell bodies to a North American customer. The order, to be executed over six months, requires advanced metallurgical expertise and export clearance from India's Department of Defence Production.
Trade TOI Business Desk Profile: How the Team Covers Global Economic News for Readers
The TOI Business Desk is a team of journalists dedicated to providing the latest business news from around the globe. Their coverage spans industries, markets, economic trends, and exclusive reports, helping readers navigate the complexities of the business world.
Trade Indian Goods Exports Estimated to Grow 15% in May, Driven by Petroleum and Other Sectors
Indian goods exports are estimated to have grown 15% in May 2026, driven by high global oil prices boosting the crude refining industry, according to a government official. Excluding petroleum, exports rose 11%. The official also stated that the first phase of the India-US bilateral trade agreement can be finalised after the US concludes Section 301 investigations, which will end temporary 10% tariffs on July 24.
Trade China Rejects Indian Red Chilli Cargoes Over Pesticide Residues, Suspends Three Exporters
China has rejected at least three consignments of Indian dried red chillies and suspended three Indian exporters over traces of methamidophos, a pesticide residue. The move follows similar rejections of Indian rice and signals heightened scrutiny on food safety. India's chilli exports to China grew 31% in 2024-25 to 2.36 lakh tonnes, according to The Hindu Business Line.
Trade US-Iran Peace Deal May Help Boost India's Exports, Stabilise Rupee
The US and Iran have reached a peace deal to end a four-month war, with the agreement to be signed on June 19 in Switzerland. Export bodies and analysts say reopening the Strait of Hormuz will stabilise energy markets, strengthen the rupee, and boost India's exports, which had fallen sharply during the conflict.
Trade Basmati rice, tea exports to West Asia grind to halt as Strait of Hormuz closure disrupts trade
Exports of basmati rice and premium orthodox tea from India to West Asia have ceased due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Three vessels laden with 100,000 tonnes of basmati rice are idling at Kandla Port. Tea exporters are unable to fulfill orders from GCC countries, with only small consignments moving via Turkey. The disruption follows an attack on the Indian-flagged vessel MT Marivex off Oman.
Trade Odisha SHG Exports 7.5 Quintals of Amrapali Mangoes to London via PSFPO Project
Maa Kalijai SHG from Odisha's Angul district has exported 7.5 quintals of Amrapali mangoes to London under the PSFPO project. The export was facilitated by Palladium Consulting with support from the Directorate of Horticulture, Mission Shakti, and Odisha Livelihoods Mission. Odisha has achieved 90 tonnes of mango exports so far this year.
Trade BBC World Service Highlights African Billionaires
BBC World Service features Tanzanian billionaire Mohammed Dewji, discussing his wealth accumulation and philanthropic efforts. The program highlights the growth of billionaires in Africa.
Trade Assam's GI-tagged Tezpur litchi reaches Dubai, Singapore in landmark export
India has exported its first consignment of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Tezpur litchi from Assam to Dubai, with a one-metric-tonne shipment on June 7, followed by additional exports to Singapore. The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the shipments, which secured farmers nearly 10% higher prices than domestic market rates. The exports mark a milestone for premium agricultural products from Northeast India.
Trade Meta Employee Detained by Immigration Agents Post-Layoff
A former Meta employee was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement following a layoff on May 20. The incident raises concerns about the treatment of immigrant tech workers in the US.
Trade Montgomery Ruling, Cargo Fraud Dominate Texas Cross-Border Trade Summit
The 9th Annual Modernization of Cross-Border Trade conference in Laredo, Texas, focused on the U.S. Supreme Court's Montgomery v. Caribe Transport II ruling, cargo fraud, and preparations for USMCA 2.0. Hosted by Reliance Partners and Borderless Coverage, the event drew over 500 industry leaders. Panelists highlighted rising legal liability for brokers, evolving carrier-vetting standards, and cargo security risks.
Trade Deezer Launches AI Music Detector, Scans Playlists on Rival Platforms
Deezer has launched a free online AI music detector that scans playlists from any streaming platform, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal, to identify AI-generated songs. The tool reports that nearly half of users switching to Deezer have AI tracks in their playlists. The service aims to expose AI slop and fraudulent streams.
Trade Nepal Clarifies: No Ban on Indian Mango Imports
The Indian Ministry of Agriculture confirmed that Nepal has not banned Indian mango imports, despite revised import conditions. Exports continue with compliance to new phytosanitary measures.
UK Business Secretary Criticizes Foreign Sale of ARM Holdings
UK Business Secretary Peter Kyle expressed regret over the foreign sale of ARM Holdings, a major UK tech firm, to Japan's Softbank. He emphasized the need for policies to retain tech companies in the UK, citing recent government initiatives.
Trade India Eyes Canada for Crude Oil Amid Diversification Efforts
India is exploring Canada as a potential supplier of crude oil, focusing on heavy crude compatible with its refineries. High Commissioner Dinesh Patnaik highlighted ongoing discussions despite regulatory concerns.