India’s merchandise exports recorded strong growth of around 15 percent during the period from April to June 14, demonstrating resilience despite global economic uncertainties and higher tariffs imposed by the United States, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
Addressing chartered accountants in Mumbai, Goyal said India’s export sector has continued to perform robustly in the current financial year even as international trade conditions remain challenging.
Official trade data for June is scheduled to be released by the Commerce Ministry on July 15.
Export Growth Remains Strong
India’s merchandise exports rose 18 percent year-on-year in May to USD 45.2 billion, marking the highest monthly export level in six months.
During April-May 2026-27, merchandise exports increased 16.09 percent to USD 88.91 billion, while imports grew 15.14 percent to USD 145.35 billion. The country’s trade deficit during the two-month period stood at USD 56.44 billion.
The minister highlighted that export growth has continued despite additional tariff measures introduced by the United States on imports from several trading partners.
Goyal also urged chartered accountants to play an active role in supporting the government’s vision of a developed India, or “Viksit Bharat”, by contributing to greater economic competitiveness and sustainable growth.
India-US Trade Negotiations Gain Momentum
The minister confirmed that negotiations on the proposed India-US bilateral trade agreement will resume this week with the visit of US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to New Delhi.
Ministerial-level discussions scheduled for June 23-24 are expected to focus on finalising the framework for the first phase of the proposed trade pact.
The upcoming talks follow discussions between chief negotiators held in New Delhi earlier this month and take place amid ongoing concerns over proposed US tariff measures affecting imports from several countries, including India.
Framework Expected to Take Shape
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal recently indicated that the ministerial engagement is expected to help finalise the broad contours of the bilateral trade framework, potentially paving the way for deeper economic and trade cooperation between India and the United States.
The negotiations are being closely watched by exporters and industry stakeholders, who view the agreement as a key opportunity to expand market access and strengthen bilateral trade ties between the world’s two largest democracies.
