India’s trade deficit widened sharply to $15.3 billion in June 2026 as rising imports of crude oil, gold and electronics significantly outpaced the growth in overall exports.

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• India’s trade deficit jumped 430% year-on-year to $15.3 billion during June 2026, driven by a sharp increase in merchandise imports across key sectors of the economy.
• Commerce Ministry data showed that total exports, including goods and services, increased 9.5% to $73.4 billion, reflecting continued resilience in India’s external trade performance.
• Total imports surged nearly 27% to $88.8 billion, substantially exceeding export growth and resulting in a significantly wider trade deficit during the month.
• Higher imports of crude oil contributed significantly to the widening deficit as global energy demand and import values remained elevated during June 2026.
• Imports of gold and electronic as well as electrical goods also recorded strong growth, increasing India’s overall import bill and putting additional pressure on the trade balance.
• Merchandise imports remained the primary factor behind the widening trade gap despite steady growth in exports across both goods and services sectors.
• The latest trade figures highlight the importance of strengthening domestic manufacturing, export competitiveness and import diversification to improve India’s external trade position.
• The Commerce Ministry data reflects continued momentum in trade activity while underlining the challenges posed by rising import dependence on critical commodities and technology product