Record-breaking Q1 exports despite challenging global conditions: FIEO President

 

Highlights priorities 

India’s exports have achieved a historic milestone in the first quarter of FY 2025-26, with combined merchandise and services exports rising by 6% year-on-year to touch an all-time high of $210.31 billion, announced Mr S. C. Ralhan, President, Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).

“This outstanding performance has come despite challenging global conditions marked by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and tariff uncertainties,” said Mr Ralhan. “Reaching this record level—up from $198 billion in the same quarter last year—is a powerful testament to the resilience and agility of Indian exporters.”

Mr Ralhan highlighted that : he narrowing trade deficit and surge in exports, particularly to the US, signal the growing impact of India’s market diversification strategies and its focus on product innovation. “Our exporters are clearly rising to the occasion and delivering, even in an unsettled global trade environment.”

Mr Ralhan noted that the sharp drop in imports may also reflect the success of import substitution efforts and the strengthening of domestic manufacturing capacities, in line with the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) vision.

To build on this momentum, the FIEO President stressed the following priorities:

* Continued support to MSMEs through timely implementation and expansion of the Interest Equalisation Scheme.

* Fast-tracking FTAs and BTAs, especially with key markets like the United States, to enhance market access.

* Simplification and full digitisation of trade procedures to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

* Streamlining e-commerce export processes, addressing operational and procedural hurdles for faster growth. 

Looking ahead, Mr Ralhan urged the government to maintain a sharp, sector-focused export strategy, especially in services. “With India’s digital capabilities and skilled workforce, there is immense scope to boost services exports. Investment in digital infrastructure, talent development and targeted international promotion will be critical to sustaining this upward trajectory”, he said, as per a communique.

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