India exports rise to $44.4 billion in September; trade deficit narrows to $30.21 billion

India's merchandise exports rose 23% to $44.4 billion in September 2026, while the trade deficit narrowed to $30.21 billion from $33 billion a year earlier, according to government data released on Thursday.

Imports also increased during the month, rising 8% to $74.61 billion. However, exports grew at a faster pace, helping reduce the gap between the value of goods India sells overseas and those it purchases from other countries.

The trade deficit narrowed by $2.79 billion compared with September 2025.

Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal, addressing a press briefing on the trade data, said India's exports were maintaining their growth momentum.

The latest figures also showed strong growth in trade during the first six months of the current financial year.

During April-September 2026, merchandise exports increased 18.51% to $259.89 billion, while imports climbed 16.31% to $437.53 billion.

The figures indicate that export growth outpaced import growth both in September and during the first half of FY27, although India's merchandise trade balance remained in deficit.