India’s Exports Rise 4-5% in First Half of 2025 Despite Global Challenges

New Delhi/Doha, October 7, 2025 – India’s exports have grown by 4-5% in the first six months of 2025, despite global economic challenges, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Tuesday. Speaking during his visit to Qatar, Goyal emphasized that India is emerging as a strong economic power, and its export performance reflects the country’s resilience and global competitiveness.

“India is an emerging economic power in the world. Despite global turmoil, Indian exports have risen by 4-5% in the first six months of this year. This indicates that India is emerging as a leader,” Goyal stated in an interview .

The Minister also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years in public service, noting that under his leadership, India is witnessing inclusive development across sectors.

Highlighting India-Qatar relations, Goyal said, “Qatar-India relations have improved significantly. This year will be a milestone in India-Qatar trade. We are also exploring the possibility of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and have signed the largest LNG contract with Qatar.”

According to data from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, India’s total exports in the 2024-25 fiscal reached an all-time high of USD 824.9 billion, up 6.01% from USD 778.1 billion in 2023-24. Exports during April-July 2025 are estimated at USD 277.63 billion, growing 5.23% compared to the same period last year. Merchandise exports specifically recorded USD 149.20 billion in April-July 2025, up 3.07% from USD 144.76 billion in April-July 2024.

The government has set an ambitious target of USD 1 trillion for exports in the current financial year 2025-26, underlining its commitment to strengthening India’s position in the global trade landscape.

The World Bank, in its latest South Asia Development Update, highlighted India’s economic resilience and projected that the country will continue to be the world’s fastest-growing major economy, driven by strong domestic consumption, improved farm output, and rising rural wages.

Piyush Goyal emphasized that India remains open to entering free trade agreements with willing partners while safeguarding the interests and self-respect of its 1.4 billion citizens.

“Keeping that in mind, we will neither bow down nor appear weak. Together, we will continue moving forward and capture new markets,” he said.

This growth demonstrates India’s ability to navigate global economic uncertainties while consolidating its trade relationships and advancing toward its export targets.