EconomyMonday, 15 June 2026·The Hindu - Economy
India’s merchandise exports hit $45.2 billion in May 2026; trade deficit widens
India’s merchandise exports touched a record $45.2 billion in May 2026, but the trade deficit widened to $10.5 billion as imports rose faster.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In May 2026, India’s merchandise exports rose to a record $45.2 billion and the overall trade deficit widened to $10.5 billion, according to Ministry of Commerce and Industry data released in June 2026.
Key specifics
- Merchandise exports were $45.2 billion in May 2026, up 18% from May 2025.
- Services exports rose 13.2% to $36.8 billion in May 2026.
- Engineering goods exports jumped 24.5% to $12.3 billion, the largest merchandise category cited.
- Merchandise imports increased 22.1% to $73.4 billion, widening the merchandise trade deficit to $28.2 billion.
- Non-petroleum exports grew 10.5% to $70.7 billion in April-May 2026.
Exam lens
TNPSC economy question type: export data and trade deficit, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, May 2026 exports $45.2 billion, imports $73.4 billion, merchandise trade deficit $28.2 billion, engineering goods $12.3 billion.