India’s tanker exports surged more than six-fold to US$1.36 billion during the first quarter of FY27, highlighting the country’s growing capabilities in shipbuilding and maritime engineering. Exports stood at US$221.1 million in the same quarter a year earlier, according to Commerce Ministry data.
The number of tankers exported also increased significantly, rising from 10 vessels to 23 vessels during April-June 2026. The sharp increase indicates growing international demand for Indian-built vessels and marine transportation assets.
The United Arab Emirates emerged as India’s largest tanker export destination, accounting for US$900.8 million of shipments during the quarter, compared with US$103.6 million a year earlier. The number of vessels exported to the UAE increased from four to seven.
Singapore ranked second, importing tankers worth US$146.4 million, up from US$45.5 million in the corresponding period last year. Shipments to Singapore rose from two vessels to six.
The Middle East remained a major market for Indian-built tankers. Exports to Oman jumped to US$131.6 million from US$28.6 million, while Saudi Arabia also remained an important destination. Gulf countries together accounted for a substantial share of India’s tanker exports during the quarter.
India also expanded its tanker export footprint beyond the Gulf and Southeast Asia. Shipments to Sri Lanka increased to US$56.5 million from US$7.9 million, while new export destinations included Egypt at US$39.3 million, South Africa at US$34.2 million, Vietnam at US$31.5 million, Indonesia at US$12.2 million and Mozambique at US$7.7 million.
The diversification of markets points to growing acceptance of Indian-built tankers across Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Strong demand from maritime and energy-sector customers, combined with increased deliveries from Indian shipyards, is helping expand India’s presence in the global commercial shipbuilding market.
The surge is significant for India’s maritime industry as the country seeks to expand its domestic shipbuilding capacity and establish itself as a competitive supplier of high-value vessels. Rising tanker exports could also generate additional opportunities for Indian shipyards, marine equipment suppliers, ports and logistics companies involved in vessel delivery and maritime trade.