India’s exports up 6.7%, reach $35.1 bn in Aug

India's merchandise exports recorded a positive growth of 6.7 per cent in August this year, reaching $35.1 billion, compared to $32.89 billion in August 2024, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. However, the exports in August saw a dip of $2.14 billion compared to $37.24 billion in July. The trade deficit also narrowed down to $26.49 billion from $27.35 billion in July.

Interestingly, the exports in August recorded a positive growth year-on-year basis despite 50 per cent tariffs imposed by the US on selected Indian goods, including 25 percent reciprocal tariffs which came into effect on August 7 and 25 percent additional duty effective August 27. The US remained top export destination of India with $40.39 billion of export in April-August period, recording an increase of over $6 billion from $34.21 billion in the corresponding year last year.

“Despite global uncertainties and trade policy uncertainties, the exporters have done extremely well. It shows that the policies of the government have paid off,” Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal said.

According to the ministry of commerce data, the imports declined by 10.12 percent to $61.59 billion, down from $68.53 billion in the corresponding period last year. Consequently, the trade deficit narrowed significantly to $26.49 billion, as against $35.64 billion in August 2024. Though, China remained largest import partner of India with $51.57 billion, an increase of nearly $4.7 billion compared to August 2024.

Merchandise exports stood at US$ 184.13 billion during April-August 2025, reflecting a 2.52 percent increase from US

$ 179.60 billion in the corresponding period last year. Notably, non-petroleum exports showed even stronger growth, rising 7.35 per cent to US$ 158.07 billion from US$ 147.25 billion in April-August 2024, highlighting the resilience and diversity of India’s export portfolio.