India is aiming to cross the $500 billion mark in merchandise exports in the 2026–27 financial year, supported by efforts to expand overseas market access, strengthen manufacturing and improve the competitiveness of domestic products.
The Commerce Secretary has expressed optimism about the export outlook, highlighting the potential for India’s goods shipments to maintain momentum amid changing global trade conditions. The target reflects the government’s continued focus on boosting exports and strengthening India’s position in international markets.
According to official trade data, merchandise exports reached $259.9 billion during April–September FY27, marking an 18.5% increase from $219.3 billion in the corresponding period last year. Non-petroleum exports also recorded healthy growth, rising 15.6% to $218.7 billion.
Engineering goods remained India’s largest merchandise export category during the first half, generating $70.9 billion in shipments. Petroleum products contributed $41.2 billion, followed by electronic goods at $32 billion, highlighting the importance of industrial manufacturing and technology-related exports.
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said exports could exceed $500 billion if the stronger second-half performance seen in the previous financial year is repeated. During October–March FY26, India’s merchandise exports totalled $222.5 billion.
The government is continuing efforts to expand market access through trade agreements, promote domestic manufacturing and help exporters diversify their markets. Sustaining export growth will be important as India pursues its broader ambition of reaching $1 trillion in combined merchandise and services exports in FY27.