Top 10 Products Exported from India: Driving Global Trade

India has steadily emerged as a major player in international trade, exporting a diverse range of goods to countries across the globe. Between April and December 2024, Indian exports reached a value of $602.64 billion, marking a 6.03% year-on-year growth. Despite fluctuations in the global economy, Indian industries continue to perform with resilience and consistency.

The types of goods India exports highlight the country’s industrial strengths and reveal its most valuable trade partnerships. This insight is crucial for businesses, investors, and policymakers who aim to make informed decisions in the global marketplace.

In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 export products from India, exploring their economic significance and global reach.

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India’s Export Economy: An Overview

Exports are a key driver of India's economic development. They bring in foreign revenue, support employment, and strengthen India’s global trade relationships. According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, total exports (goods and services) between April and December 2024 amounted to $602.64 billion, a 6.03% increase from the same period in the previous year.

This growth reflects India’s strategic trade initiatives and the resilience of its export sectors, many of which remained strong even during the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Why Exports Matter to India’s Economy

Exports contribute approximately 18–20% to India’s GDP, making them essential for sustained economic stability. They create employment across sectors such as IT services, agriculture, transport, and manufacturing. According to Invest India, every $1 billion in export growth generates over 100,000 jobs, many of which uplift communities in economically weaker regions.

India’s export strengths are primarily concentrated in three key areas:

• Industrial Goods – Includes petroleum, vehicles, gems, pharmaceuticals, and apparel; accounting for over 65% of total goods exports.

• Agricultural Products – India is a top global exporter of rice, spices, tea, seafood, and cotton, contributing $53.1 billion in 2022–23.

• Services – India excels in IT, fintech, and customer support services, exporting over $325 billion worth of services in 2023–24 (RBI data).

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Top Importers of Indian Products

India’s exports are in high demand across multiple continents. Major trading partners include:

• United States

• United Arab Emirates

• Netherlands

• United Kingdom

• China

• Singapore

• Germany

• Saudi Arabia

• Bangladesh

• Australia

These countries account for a significant portion of India’s foreign trade and are key to future export growth.

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India’s Top 10 Exported Products

India’s top exports reflect its advanced manufacturing capabilities, resource availability, and global competitiveness. Here are the 10 most exported products from India as of 2024:

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1. Petroleum Products

• Export Value: $54.2 billion (16.96%)

• Major Buyers: USA, China

• Impact: As India refines and exports large volumes of oil, these products fuel industries and transportation worldwide.

2. Gems and Jewelry

• Export Value: $48 billion (15.05%)

• Major Buyers: UAE, Hong Kong

• Impact: Indian jewelry is celebrated for its craftsmanship, making the country a major player in global luxury markets.

3. Automobiles

• Export Value: $20.4 billion (6.4%)

• Major Buyers: Mexico, South Africa, Nigeria

• Impact: Indian cars and commercial vehicles are increasingly preferred in emerging and developed markets alike.

4. Pharmaceuticals

• Export Value: $16.9 billion (5.3%)

• Major Buyers: USA, South Africa

• Impact: Known as the "pharmacy of the world," India supplies affordable and high-quality medicines globally.

5. Machinery and Computers

• Export Value: $11.5 billion (3.6%)

• Major Buyers: USA, Germany

• Impact: From industrial machinery to computer hardware, these exports are critical to global manufacturing and tech sectors.

6. Organic Chemicals

• Export Value: $9.8 billion (3.1%)

• Major Buyers: China, USA

• Impact: Used across pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and manufacturing, these chemicals are essential to multiple industries.

7. Textiles and Apparel (Non-Knit)

• Export Value: $8.9 billion (2.8%)

• Major Buyers: USA, UK

• Impact: Woven garments from India remain in high demand in fashion-forward markets.

8. Iron and Steel

• Export Value: $8.5 billion (2.7%)

• Major Buyers: China, Germany

• Impact: India is a top supplier of iron and steel, vital for construction, infrastructure, and automotive industries.

9. Rice

• Export Value: $7 billion (2.2%)

• Major Buyers: Saudi Arabia, Iran

• Impact: As the world’s largest rice exporter, India helps ensure food security in several regions.

10. Aluminum and Related Products

• Export Value: $5 billion (1.6%)

• Major Buyers: China, Japan

• Impact: Aluminum exports support sectors like aerospace, automotive, and construction worldwide.

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Conclusion

Global import export data performance continues to strengthen its position as a global economic leader. These top 10 products represent the diversity and strength of India’s manufacturing, agricultural, and industrial capabilities. As the country expands trade relations and adapts to changing global demands, its export economy is poised for even greater success in the years ahead.