India is strengthening its export presence across key international markets, with government data indicating strong growth in shipments to several countries across Africa, ASEAN and North-East Asia. The performance highlights the growing importance of these regions in diversifying India’s export destinations and expanding overseas trade.
ASEAN remains an important market for Indian exporters, offering opportunities across engineering goods, petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, agricultural commodities and other manufactured products. Meanwhile, African markets are becoming increasingly significant for Indian businesses seeking to expand trade and build new commercial partnerships.
North-East Asian economies also offer opportunities for Indian exporters, particularly in industrial goods, chemicals, marine products and other value-added commodities. Growth across these regions can help Indian companies reduce dependence on a limited number of export destinations and strengthen their position in global supply chains.
According to Commerce Ministry data, India’s merchandise exports to Africa increased by 47% to US$26.19 billion during April–August FY2026-27, compared with US$17.83 billion in the corresponding period last year. Africa’s share in India’s total exports rose to 12.2% from 9.7%. Exports to East Africa nearly doubled, while shipments to the Southern African Customs Union and North Africa also recorded strong growth.
Exports to ASEAN climbed 56% to US$23.08 billion, while shipments to North-East Asia rose 37% to US$21.03 billion during the five-month period. Exports to South Asia and other European countries also increased by 24%, indicating broader geographical expansion.
The growth reflects India’s efforts to diversify export destinations and strengthen trade links with emerging markets. However, the expansion has been supported significantly by petroleum product shipments, highlighting the need to broaden export growth across manufacturing and other value-added sectors.
India’s merchandise exports overall rose 18.51% to US$259.89 billion during April–September FY2026-27, compared with US$219.30 billion a year earlier. Sustaining this momentum will depend on expanding market access, improving export competitiveness and increasing demand for Indian products across global markets.