Key Highlights
- India’s exports to West Asia rose 8.62% in July.
- Shipments reached USD 5.7 billion.
- UAE exports increased 10.15% to USD 3.3 billion.
- Saudi Arabia shipments declined 2.73%.
- Oman imports from India jumped 150.36%.
- Exporters are using alternative ports amid regional disruptions.
New Delhi, August 13: India’s exports to the West Asian region rose 8.62% year-on-year to USD 5.7 billion in July, compared with USD 5.2 billion in the same month last year, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said on Thursday.
The increase comes despite continuing global uncertainties and disruptions caused by the US-Iran conflict. Shipments to the region had declined for the first time in March but subsequently improved in April, May and June.
Agrawal said trade with the region has now returned to earlier levels. India normally exports goods worth around USD 6 billion every month to West Asian countries.
Exports to the United Arab Emirates increased 10.15% to USD 3.3 billion during July. However, shipments to Saudi Arabia declined 2.73% to USD 763.7 million.
India is also adapting its logistics routes as regional disruptions affect established shipping channels. Indian exporters are using the ports of Duqm, Sohar and Salalah in Oman, as well as the Port of Fujairah in the UAE, to move goods into the region.
The Port of Jebel Ali in the UAE, which traditionally handled a significant amount of cargo destined for West Asian markets, has faced operational disruptions amid the ongoing conflict.
The US-Iran conflict has also affected the movement of cargo ships in international waters, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, an important route for global energy and commercial shipping.
Despite these challenges, the recovery in Indian exports indicates that businesses have been able to adjust their logistics arrangements and maintain trade flows with key West Asian markets.
