India’s exports to China climbed 22% year-on-year in the first half of fiscal year 2025–26, reaching $8.41 billion, up from $6.90 billion in the same period last year, according to official data. The surge was driven by robust shipments of petroleum products, telephone set components, seafood, aluminium, and agricultural goods such as capsicum.
The increase reflects how Indian exporters have diversified their trade routes following steep tariff hikes imposed by the United States on several Indian goods earlier this year. Products like shrimps and aluminium, which faced a 50% combined duty in the US, have found strong alternative demand in China, trade analysts noted.
India has also begun exporting new categories of goods to China, including organic light-emitting diode (OLED) flat panel display modules and dried beans, indicating a widening export basket.
Government data shows that after the US tariffs took effect in August, India’s exports to China rose 34% in September 2025 alone — from $1.09 billion in September 2024 to $1.47 billion.
Among key contributors to the export growth:
- Light oils and petroleum preparations surged 116%, from $686 million in H1 FY25 to $1.48 billion in H1 FY26.
- Telephone set components jumped 162%, from $178 million to $468 million.
- Frozen shrimps and prawns rose 25%, reaching $468 million.
- Sulphur exports soared 175% to $117 million, while aluminium shipments grew 59% to $192 million.
- Exports of OLED display modules, previously negligible, reached $246 million.
The commerce and industry ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Analysts said the data underscores India’s growing ability to redirect and adapt its export markets amid shifting global trade dynamics and tariff realignments.
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