The Times Kuwait report highlighted India’s remarkable export performance in 2025, defying global tariffs. Despite US tariffs targeting economic sovereignty, India saw significant trade growth. Key trade agreements like the India–UK CETA, India–Oman CEPA, and India–EFTA TEPA expanded market access and lowered customs duties. This led to collaborations in sectors such as renewable energy, AI, ICT, and EVs.
Total exports, including merchandise and services, reached $825.25 billion in 2024–25, showing a 6.05% increase year-on-year. Notably, exports in the first half of FY26 surged to $418.91 billion, a record high for any half-year period. Non-petroleum exports also rose to $374.32 billion, up by 6.07%. Key sectors driving this growth included electronics, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, marine products, and rice, with major export destinations being the UAE, China, Spain, and Hong Kong.
India’s strategic trade resilience was further enhanced by diversifying markets and strengthening institutional support. The country’s reduced dependence on any single trade partner lessened the urgency for an exclusive India-US trade deal. Partnerships with ASEAN nations like the Philippines and Thailand deepened regional integration and opened up new export avenues. Domestic initiatives like the Export Promotion Mission provided crucial financial and non-financial backing, including credit guarantees, trade finance, compliance assistance, and international branding. Digital transformation efforts through platforms like Trade eConnect and the Trade Intelligence & Analytics (TIA) portal significantly improved trade facilitation and data-driven insights.
