New Delhi — India’s goods exports rose sharply in November, offering a measure of relief to the country’s external trade position even as higher U.S. tariffs continued to weigh on key sectors.
Merchandise exports increased 19 percent from a year earlier to $38.13 billion, driven in part by a rebound in shipments to the United States. The improvement helped narrow India’s merchandise trade deficit, which fell to $24.5 billion in November from a record $41.7 billion in October. The figure was well below market expectations of about $32 billion.
Trade with the United States showed particular strength. Indian exports to the U.S. climbed 22.6 percent year on year to $6.98 billion, rising from $6.31 billion in October. The increase followed two months of declines, with exports to the U.S. falling 8.6 percent in October and 11.9 percent in September.
Overall exports of goods and services rose 15.52 percent in November to $73.99 billion. Several major sectors recorded year-on-year gains, including electronics, gems and jewellery, engineering goods and ready-made textiles.
The stronger performance comes despite significant headwinds. In August, the United States imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian imports, taking total duties on some products to as high as 50 percent. The measures rank among the highest tariffs Washington has applied to its trading partners and have hit textiles, gems and jewellery, and marine products particularly hard.
Rajeev Juneja, president of the industry body PHDCCI, said India had nevertheless posted positive export growth with 14 of its 20 major trading partners, underscoring what he described as growing diversification and resilience in the country’s external trade.
Trade talks between India and the United States have been underway for months without a final agreement. Still, officials on both sides have signaled a gradual softening of positions. President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible reduction in tariffs on India.
In an effort to rebalance trade with Washington, New Delhi has increased its purchases of oil and gas from the United States, aiming to reduce its trade surplus. India is also expected to step up imports of American agricultural products in the coming months.
