India recorded a sharp jump in exports in November, defying expectations at a time when many countries are struggling under the weight of steep United States trade tariffs. Despite facing a total tariff rate of 50 percent imposed by the Trump administration, India’s exports rose nearly 20 percent year on year, marking the country’s fastest export growth in three years. According to figures released by India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry and reported by Al Jazeera, the surge reflects a combination of resilient demand, tariff exemptions, and a broader push to diversify export destinations.
Goods exports reached $38.13 billion in November 2025, up about 19.4 percent compared with the same month last year. This represented a strong rebound from October, when exports had fallen by nearly 12 percent. Imports also declined by just under 2 percent, driven by lower purchases of gold, oil, and coal. As a result, India’s trade deficit narrowed sharply to around $24.5 billion, its lowest level since June, easing pressure on the country’s external balance.
Surprisingly, exports to the United States remained a major driver of growth despite the higher tariffs. Shipments to the US rose by about 22 percent year on year in November, reaching close to $7 billion. According to India’s Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, key sectors such as engineering goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and gems and jewellery continued to perform strongly. Analysts note that several of these products are exempt from US tariffs, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, and certain food items such as tea, coffee, and spices.
Exports to China also played a significant role in November’s performance. Shipments to China surged by roughly 90 percent year on year to $2.2 billion, with electronics and engineering goods leading the gains. The Commerce Ministry said exports to countries including Spain, the United Arab Emirates, and Tanzania also contributed to overall growth, underlining India’s expanding global trade footprint beyond its traditional markets.
Economists say expectations of future tariff relief have also supported trade flows. India and the US continue to work toward a broader trade agreement, and recent energy deals, including long term contracts for US liquefied petroleum gas, have strengthened commercial ties. According to analysts cited by Al Jazeera, US buyers appear optimistic that tariffs on other goods may eventually be eased, keeping Indian exports competitive in the American market.
At the same time, India is actively reducing its reliance on the US by deepening trade relationships elsewhere. New agreements with the United Kingdom and European Free Trade Association countries have lowered tariffs and linked market access with investment commitments. India is also holding talks with Mexico and Oman and exploring opportunities in Eurasian and Central Asian markets. Analysts add that a weaker rupee in November helped offset some tariff related price pressures, while comparisons with a weak export period last year, affected by Red Sea shipping disruptions, also made the growth figures appear stronger.
According to Al Jazeera, India’s November export performance highlights how global trade flows are being reshaped by tariff disputes. While the US remains an important destination, India’s ability to expand exports amid trade tensions reflects both strategic diversification and structural shifts in global demand.
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