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India’s export performance in fiscal year 2024–25 emerged as a bright spot in the country’s economic landscape, with multiple sectors demonstrating resilience and global competitiveness. According to recent trade estimates, over half of India’s total exports were driven by just four sectors: engineering goods, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. This sectoral concentration not only highlights the strengths of India’s export basket but also reveals evolving trends in global demand and India’s manufacturing capabilities.

Electronics: Fastest Growing Export Segment

Among the key sectors, electronic goods exports recorded the highest growth rate, signaling India’s gradual success in its ambition to become a global electronics manufacturing hub. Policy initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for electronics, along with investments in semiconductor manufacturing, appear to be yielding results. According to data from the Ministry of Commerce, electronics exports grew by nearly 35% year-on-year, driven by increased shipments of mobile phones, electronic components, and consumer gadgets.

This growth is critical not only in terms of value but also in terms of strategic positioning—reducing dependency on imports, capturing global value chains, and creating employment in high-tech sectors.

Engineering Goods: The Pillar of Export Strength

Despite the rise of electronics, engineering goods maintained their position as the top contributor to India’s exports in 2024–25. This category includes products ranging from industrial machinery and transport equipment to auto components and capital goods. India’s engineering exports have traditionally enjoyed strong demand in regions like the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa.

The sector benefited from the global infrastructure boom post-pandemic, increased participation in global supply chains, and trade agreements that opened access to new markets. Exporters also leveraged technology and digital tools to boost efficiency and responsiveness to international orders.

Agriculture: Stable Growth with a Record in Rice Exports

Agricultural exports also saw a notable rise, supported by strong global demand for staples and India’s comparative advantage in food production. Of particular note is the record-high export of rice, reaffirming India’s position as the world’s largest rice exporter.

Several factors contributed to this growth:

Global supply shortages due to weather-related disruptions in other rice-producing countries.

Competitive pricing by Indian exporters.

Government facilitation through export logistics and customs efficiency.


However, while rice led the surge, exports of other commodities like spices, tea, and fruits also showed stable performance, demonstrating diversification within the agricultural export portfolio.

Pharmaceuticals: Reliable Amid Global Health Uncertainties

India’s pharmaceutical exports continued their reliable performance, aided by ongoing global demand for generic medicines, vaccines, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Indian pharma remains competitive due to scale, regulatory compliance, and cost efficiency.

The export data from 2024–25 reveals continued interest from markets in the U.S., Europe, and parts of Africa, especially in essential medicines and over-the-counter products. India’s role as the “pharmacy of the world” remains intact, although rising scrutiny on quality standards and global regulatory changes will require continued vigilance and investment in compliance.

Strategic Implications and Future Outlook

India’s export story in 2024–25 offers both celebration and caution:

Positive Signals:

Strong performance across diversified sectors.

PLI schemes and Make in India policies showing results.

Competitive edge in agri and pharma exports maintained.


Cautionary Points:

High dependency on a few sectors could pose risks if global demand shifts.

External headwinds such as geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, or climate shocks could disrupt this growth.

Supply-side challenges like infrastructure bottlenecks and high logistics costs remain areas for policy attention.

India’s exports in 2024–25 paint a picture of a dynamic, responsive, and evolving economy. With targeted reforms, strategic global partnerships, and investments in infrastructure and innovation, the momentum can be sustained. However, diversification—both across products and markets—remains the key to building long-term export resilience.