Merchandise Exports Stagnate at $36.61 Billion in February

17-Mar-2026 07:54 PM

New Delhi. During February 2026, India's merchandise exports declined by 0.8 percent compared to February 2025, stagnating at $36.61 billion; furthermore, given the uncertain state of the global market, the export figures for March are likely to be even lower.

According to the Union Ministry of Commerce, in light of the crisis in West Asia and the escalating challenges regarding shipments, the likelihood of an improved export performance in March is very slim.

Conversely, during February 2026, India's merchandise imports surged by a substantial 24.11 percent, reaching $63.71 billion. Consequently, India's foreign trade deficit widened to $27.10 billion in February 2026—nearly double the trade deficit of $14 billion recorded in February 2025. Prior to

this, in January 2026, the foreign trade deficit was recorded at $34.68 billion. Import expenditure is expected to rise further due to increases in the prices of crude mineral oil, gold, and silver.