New Delhi [India]: India’s overall exports — comprising merchandise and services — surged to USD 73.80 billion in April 2025, marking a 12.7% year-on-year increase from USD 65.48 billion in April 2024, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce on Wednesday.
However, imports grew at an even faster pace, rising 15.7% to USD 82.45 billion in April, compared to USD 71.25 billion in the same month last year. The wider import bill led to the overall trade deficit ballooning to USD 8.65 billion, a sharp 50% jump from USD 5.77 billion in April 2024.
Merchandise Trade Snapshot
India’s merchandise exports rose by 9.03% to USD 38.39 billion in April 2025, up from USD 35.3 billion a year ago. At the same time, merchandise imports climbed 19.12% to USD 64.91 billion, up from USD 54.49 billion in April 2024.
This widening of the merchandise trade deficit signals a sharp increase in demand for imports, possibly driven by rising domestic consumption and stronger economic activity.
Commerce Secretary’s Remarks
Commenting on the performance, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal stated:
“We have reached a record USD 825 billion in exports for the 2024-25 fiscal year, which is the largest ever. This demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of Indian exporters, who continue to show strength despite global uncertainties.”
March Trade Data Recap
India’s overall trade deficit had already seen a significant rise in March 2025, widening to USD 21.54 billion, up from USD 14.05 billion in February, which had marked a three-year low. Merchandise exports and imports in March also reflected year-on-year growth, with overall exports (merchandise and services combined) reaching USD 73.61 billion, up slightly from USD 71.71 billion in March 2024.
Analysis & Outlook
The sustained growth in exports is a positive indicator for India’s economic momentum, but the faster rise in imports — especially in sectors like electronics, energy, and machinery — is contributing to a widening trade imbalance.
Experts suggest that policy attention may be needed to:
- Enhance export competitiveness,
- Diversify export destinations and products,
- And reduce import dependence on critical sectors like energy, electronics, and defence.
With global headwinds, including volatile commodity prices and geopolitical tensions, India’s trade performance will remain a key indicator of economic resilience in the months ahead.
Key Figures – April 2025 Trade Data
| Indicator | April 2024 | April 2025 | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Exports | USD 65.48 bn | USD 73.80 bn | +12.7% |
| Overall Imports | USD 71.25 bn | USD 82.45 bn | +15.7% |
| Trade Deficit | USD 5.77 bn | USD 8.65 bn | +50% |
| Merchandise Exports | USD 35.3 bn | USD 38.39 bn | +9.03% |
| Merchandise Imports | USD 54.49 bn | USD 64.91 bn | +19.12% |