India’s services sector continued its robust expansion in January 2026, with the HSBC/S&P Global Services PMI rising to 58.5, up from 58.0 in December. The growth was driven by stronger demand, new orders, and resilient output. Despite rising input costs, firms reported stable employment and improved foreign demand, signaling sustained momentum.
India’s services industry showcased resilience in January, as the HSBC India Services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) climbed to 58.5, compared to 58.0 in December 2025. According to S&P Global, the reading well above the neutral 50 mark indicates continued expansion, reflecting strong demand conditions and steady business confidence.
The survey highlighted that new orders grew at a faster pace, supported by aggressive marketing campaigns and rising foreign demand from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Employment levels remained broadly stable, while firms faced higher input costs, leading to increased output prices as companies sought to protect margins.
Key Highlights
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January PMI: 58.5, up from 58.0 in December.
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Growth Drivers: Faster new orders, strong demand, and marketing efforts.
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Foreign Demand: Increased orders from Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East.
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Employment: Broadly stable despite rising costs.
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Price Trends: Input costs surged; output prices adjusted upward.
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Sector Outlook: Positive momentum continues, signaling resilience in India’s services economy.
India’s services sector remains a key pillar of economic growth, with January’s PMI reinforcing optimism for sustained expansion in 2026.
Sources: Business Standard, Trading Economics, Moneycontrol