India’s export performance in the first half of the current financial year has sent a clear message to global markets: New Delhi’s trade momentum remains resilient despite rising geopolitical and economic headwinds. According to official data released by the Commerce Ministry last week, Indian exports rose 5.86% year-over-year between April and September, reaching a record $418.91 billion. The figures underscore the growing diversification of India’s export destinations and the increasing role of services in sustaining growth at a time when traditional trade relationships are under strain.

The data comes at a politically sensitive moment. In August, the United States imposed sweeping 50% tariffs on Indian goods, with half of those levies explicitly described as punitive measures linked to New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil. More recently, US President Donald Trump threatened additional tariffs, accusing India of dumping rice into the American market. Yet, despite these pressures, India’s exports not only held steady but expanded, reflecting both structural shifts in the economy and a deliberate recalibration of trade strategy.

A key factor behind the export surge has been strong demand from a range of global markets. The Commerce Ministry noted that India’s export performance was “strongly supported” by destinations including the United States, the United Arab Emirates, China, Spain, and Hong Kong. Growth figures were particularly striking in certain markets: exports to Spain jumped by more than 40%, while shipments to China and Hong Kong rose by over 20%.

These........

© Blitz