# India’s July exports hit record $44.24 bn, trade deficit swells

2026-08-13T15:15:07+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 3 independent outlets

India’s merchandise exports rose 19.6% year-on-year to a record $44.24 billion in July 2026, driven by petroleum products, electronics and engineering goods. But a sharp rise in imports of crude oil, electronics and fertilisers pushed the trade deficit to $31.98 billion, the highest in six months. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said exports are becoming more diversified, with shipments to China, Singapore and Tanzania surging. Exports to West Asia rebounded to $5.7 billion after a conflict-driven plunge in March. Cumulative exports in April-July rose 17% to $173.78 billion, while the trade deficit widened to $118.60 billion.

## Coverage

- thehindubusinessline.com <https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/indias-july-exports-hit-record-4424-b-but-trade-deficit-swells/article71341329.ece>
- rediff.com <https://www.rediff.com/business/report/indias-july-exports-surge-trade-deficit-widens-to-six-month-high/20260813.htm>
- businesstoday.in <https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/economy/story/indias-exports-to-west-asia-rebound-in-july-549068-2026-08-13?utm_source=rssfeed>

Tags: Commerce Ministry, crude oil, economy, export, petroleum, trade deficit
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