India’s overall exports, including merchandise and services, rose by 13.17 per cent year-on-year to reach $80.45 billion in January 2026, according to data released by the Commerce Ministry. The figure marks a significant increase from $71.09 billion recorded during the same month last year.
The growth was driven largely by strong performance in the services sector, including information technology, financial and business services exports. Analysts say improving external demand and continued resilience in India’s services economy contributed to the positive trade numbers.
At the same time, India’s imports also increased sharply. Overall imports rose by 18.76 per cent to $90.83 billion in January 2026 compared with $76.48 billion during the corresponding period last year. The rise in imports widened the country’s trade deficit to over $10 billion.
Trade experts believe the export growth reflects India’s expanding role in global services trade despite continuing uncertainty in international markets. Government officials have maintained that boosting exports remains a key priority as India seeks to strengthen manufacturing, improve supply chains and increase global competitiveness through policy reforms and trade partnerships.
