marking the fastest growth in three years and reversing a 11.8% decline in October. Total goods exports reached $38.13 billion.

The surge was driven mainly by shipments to the United States and China. Exports to the US included electronics and pharmaceuticals, and even items exempt from US tariffs (like certain electronics, pharmaceuticals, tea, coffee, spices) contributed to the uptick. Shipments to China jumped 90% to $2.2 billion, aided by increases in electronics and engineering goods.

India’s trade deficit narrowed to about $24.5 billion in November, the smallest since June, as imports (notably gold, oil, and coal) fell about 1.88%.

Many countries are trying to protect exports amid US tariffs. The US has imposed a 50% tariff on some Indian goods after earlier sanctions tied to Russian oil purchases, but certain product categories enjoy tariff exemptions or potential relief as talks toward a broader trade deal continue.

India and the US signed a long-term contract in November for 2.2 million metric tonnes of US LPG annually, representing about 10% of India’s total LPG imports. Analysts expect possible tariff reductions and more exemptions if a trade deal progresses.

Despite positive signals, uncertainty remains in US-India relations. India has resisted US pressure to open sensitive sectors and continues diversifying export markets beyond the US, including talks with Mexico to counter tariff policies and explore new export corridors. There are also moves toward diversification into Eurasian and Central Asian markets.

The rupee’s weakness contributed to the November export boost by improving price competitiveness, though the November 2025 figure may be influenced by a low base from a difficult November 2024 caused by the Red Sea crisis. (Al Jazeera)