November Surge: India Leads the Pack as Exports Hit Five-Month High

Updated: December 28, 2025 10:39

Image Source: KNN India

India’s exports rebounded in November 2025, rising nearly 19–24% year-on-year to $38.13 billion, led by engineering goods and strong demand from the US and EU. The trade deficit narrowed to a five-month low, putting India ahead of EM peers and showcasing resilience amid tariffs and global supply-chain challenges.

India’s external trade performance in November 2025 has delivered a major boost to the economy, with exports rebounding strongly after two months of contraction. The surge has positioned India ahead of several emerging market (EM) peers, underscoring resilience amid global supply-chain challenges and tariff pressures.

Key Highlights

Export Growth: Merchandise exports rose 19.37% year-on-year to $38.13 billion, reversing October’s slump. Engineering goods alone contributed $11.01 billion, marking the highest monthly figure this fiscal.

Sectoral Drivers: The rebound was powered by engineering, electronics, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and machinery, reflecting diversified demand across sectors.

US & EU Demand: Shipments to the United States jumped 22.61% to $6.98 billion, despite steep tariffs, while exports to the European Union also saw sharp gains, aided by restocking ahead of the holiday season.

Trade Deficit: India’s trade deficit narrowed to $24.5 billion, the lowest in five months, down from $41.7 billion in October.

Global Context: Analysts note that India’s rebound outpaced several EM peers, thanks to supply-chain realignments, favorable base effects, and strong festive-season demand.

Context and Impact

The rebound highlights India’s ability to navigate global headwinds, including tariffs and slowing global growth. Economists suggest that the performance reflects both structural resilience and tactical advantages, such as inventory restocking in key markets.

For policymakers, the November surge offers relief amid concerns over widening deficits and currency pressures. The narrowing trade gap strengthens India’s external position, while exporters gain confidence from the ability to sustain shipments despite global uncertainties.

Industry leaders, including the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC), hailed the achievement as a testament to the exporting community’s adaptability and competitiveness. With engineering exports crossing the $11 billion mark for the first time this fiscal, India has demonstrated its potential to scale further in global trade.

Looking ahead, sustaining this momentum will depend on continued demand in advanced economies, easing supply bottlenecks, and supportive domestic policies.

Sources: The Hindu Business Line, BusinessWorld – GTRI Analysis, India Shipping News, Indian Express, India Today

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