
India has been a major player in the global export market for decades, with a diverse range of products being shipped out to countries around the world.
One of the key drivers of India's export growth has been the textile industry, which has been a significant contributor to the country's GDP.
India exported over $40 billion worth of textiles in 2020, making it one of the largest textile exporters in the world.
The pharmaceutical industry is another major sector that has seen significant growth in exports, with Indian companies like Cipla and Sun Pharmaceuticals exporting medicines to over 100 countries.
India's IT industry has also been a major driver of exports, with companies like Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) providing software and IT services to clients worldwide.
Recent Data and Trends
India's merchandise exports have shown remarkable growth in recent years. This growth is a testament to the country's expanding industrial base and competitive edge in the global market.

The total value of merchandise exports reached an impressive $447.46 billion, highlighting India's capacity to produce and deliver high-quality goods across diverse categories. This growth was driven by significant demand for petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, and gems and jewelry.
In 2014, India's top export product categories included mineral fuels, natural or cultured pearls, and vehicles. Other notable exports include organic chemicals, pharmaceutical products, and iron and steel.
2012
In 2012, India's economy was thriving, with a diverse range of exports driving growth. The country's top export was refined petroleum, valued at $52,905 million.
Refined petroleum was a significant contributor to India's export revenue, accounting for nearly 15% of the country's total exports. This sector has continued to grow, with India becoming a major player in the global oil market.
India's jewelry industry was another major export earner, with a value of $17,814 million in 2012. This sector has been growing steadily over the years, with Indian jewelry being sought after by consumers worldwide.

Here's a breakdown of India's top 5 exports in 2012:
The pharmaceutical industry was also a significant contributor to India's export revenue, with a value of $10,886 million in 2012. This sector has been growing rapidly, with India becoming a major hub for generic medicine production.
2016
In 2016, India's top export was refined petroleum, with a value of 73,411 million US dollars. This is a significant increase from the 52,905 million US dollars in 2012.
One of the notable changes in India's export landscape from 2012 to 2016 is the rise of refined petroleum as the top export. This is a stark contrast to the top export in 2012, which was refined petroleum, but with a value of 52,905 million US dollars.
India's export of refined petroleum has seen a significant increase over the years. In 2012, the value was 52,905 million US dollars, and in 2013, it was 62,105.50 million US dollars. The value continued to rise in 2014, reaching 64,685.32 million US dollars.

Here's a breakdown of the top 5 exports in 2016, based on the HSCode:
The top 5 exports in 2016 show a significant increase in the value of refined petroleum, making it the top export in 2016.
Recent Products
In recent years, India has experienced rapid growth in the demand for its exported products. This growth can be attributed to increasing exposure to Indian-made products globally.
The list of products exported from India is quite extensive, with cotton yarn/fabrics/made-ups, handloom products, and readymade garments being among the top exports. Marine products, engineering goods, and organic and inorganic chemicals are also in high demand.
Petroleum products, precious stones, and gems have seen great demand in the US market, while minerals fuels, mechanical equipment, and textile products have a high demand in the USA and European markets. Pharmaceuticals products are also in high demand globally.
The top products exported from India diversify into multiple sectors, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. India's transition to globalization has been pushed forward by the growth in every sector.
Here are some of the top products exported from India:
- Petroleum products
- Jewellery
- Automobile
- Machinery
- Bio-chemicals
- Pharmaceuticals
- Cereals
- Iron and steel
- Textile
- Electronics
The Indian economy has shown positive outcomes in development in recent years, with bilateral trade agreements and direct investment contributing to the country's growth.
Performance Trends

India's export performance has shown remarkable resilience and dynamism, underscoring the country's evolving role in the global economy. In the fiscal year 2022-23, India witnessed a record-breaking performance in both merchandise and services exports.
This growth reflects robust expansion and strategic advancements in various sectors. The country's export sector has been a key driver of economic growth.
The United States of America has been the biggest importer of Indian-made products and export items from India for many decades. This trend continues to this day, with the USA staying at the top of the list of export partners.
India's export partners have almost doubled recently, with neighboring countries such as China and Bangladesh gaining a spot in the list. These countries are also highly dependent on India's agricultural goods.
Here's a list of the top countries where Indian products have high demand:
- USA
- China
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Hong Kong
- Bangladesh
- Singapore
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Nepal
- Netherlands
Merchandise Growth
India's merchandise exports have been on a roll, with a growth rate of 6.03% in recent years. This is a testament to the country's expanding industrial base and competitive edge in the global market.

The total value of merchandise exports reached a staggering $447.46 billion, highlighting India's capacity to produce and deliver high-quality goods across diverse categories.
Petroleum products, pharmaceuticals, and gems and jewelry were among the top drivers of this growth. These sectors have been consistently performing well, with significant demand from both domestic and international markets.
Here's a breakdown of the top export categories in 2015, which gives an idea of India's export diversification:
These categories have been consistently performing well, with significant demand from both domestic and international markets.
High Demand Jobs
Cybersecurity jobs are in high demand, with a projected 31% growth rate from 2020 to 2030, significantly higher than the average growth rate for all occupations. This is due to the increasing reliance on technology and the need to protect against cyber threats.
Data scientists and analysts are also in high demand, with a projected 14% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. This is driven by the need for businesses to make data-driven decisions and the increasing amount of data being generated.

Healthcare professionals, particularly those with expertise in telemedicine, are in high demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, and healthcare professionals with the skills to deliver virtual care are in high demand.
Software developers and engineers are also in high demand, with a projected 21% growth rate from 2020 to 2030. This is driven by the increasing need for businesses to develop and maintain software applications.
As the job market continues to evolve, it's essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and in-demand skills. By doing so, you can position yourself for success and take advantage of the opportunities available in high demand jobs.
Key Markets and Destinations
India's export economy is linked to various global markets, each playing a crucial role in sustaining its trade dynamics. The country's top destination countries for exports are crucial for its trade strategy.
The United States stands out as the largest destination for Indian exports, reflecting a robust trade relationship characterized by a wide array of goods. The USA imports high-tech pharmaceuticals, textiles, and garments from India.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a significant destination for Indian gems and jewelry, petroleum products, and textiles, thanks to its strategic location and business-friendly environment. Bangladesh is a major importer of Indian cereals, textiles, and machinery, due to geographical proximity and cultural ties.
Here are the top countries where Indian products have high demand:
- USA
- China
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Hong Kong
- Bangladesh
- Singapore
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Nepal
- Netherlands
Automobile Components
India has emerged as a significant player in the global market, with a growing demand for its products. The country's expertise in producing high-quality textiles and garments has made it a favorite among consumers in Europe, the USA, and the Middle East.
India's textile industry is a major contributor to its economy, with cotton, silk, and knitwear being some of the most in-demand products. The country's expertise in producing cotton cloth and readymade garments has made it a major supplier to these markets.
The list of top export products from India includes cotton yarn and fabrics, silk and silk products, and marine products like shrimp and fish. These products are in high demand globally, and India's ability to produce them in large quantities has made it a major player in the international market.

India's automobile industry is also growing rapidly, with the country exporting cars, automobiles, and related parts to Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The country's expertise in engineering has enabled it to produce high-quality two-wheel vehicles and automobiles.
Here are some of the key automobile components exported from India:
- Cars, automobiles, and related parts
- Motorbikes
Leather Goods
When traveling to India, you'll find a thriving leather industry that exports high-quality products to major markets around the world.
Indian leather goods are renowned for their exceptional quality and style, with a wide range of products catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Shoes and other footwear are among the most popular leather products, with Indian exporters serving the main markets in Europe and the USA.
Handbags and other types of bags are also in high demand, with Indian manufacturers offering a vast array of designs, materials, and price points.
Here are some of the most popular leather products you can find:
- Shoes and other footwear
- Handbags and other types of bags
- Other leather products
Major Destination Countries

India's export economy is a significant player in the global market, with various countries serving as major destinations for Indian exports. The United States is the largest destination for Indian exports, reflecting a robust trade relationship characterized by a wide array of goods.
The USA imports a variety of Indian goods, including high-tech pharmaceuticals, textiles, and garments, making it a crucial market for Indian exporters. The strong economic partnership between the two countries underscores the significance of the USA in India's export strategy.
India's trade relationship with China is also significant, with China importing Indian goods such as organic chemicals, cotton, and mineral fuels. This trade relationship is crucial for India's export growth, especially in the raw materials and intermediate goods sectors.
Bangladesh is another major importer of Indian goods, including cereals, textiles, and machinery. The geographical proximity and cultural ties between the two countries further bolster this trade relationship, making Bangladesh an indispensable market for Indian exports.
Here are the top destination countries for Indian exports:
These countries are not only significant in terms of trade volume but also in terms of the variety of goods exported. India's export strategy is well-diversified, catering to the needs of various markets and industries.
Documentation and Compliance

Documentation and Compliance is a crucial aspect of exporting from India. You'll need to get several key documents in order to avoid shipment delays and penalties.
The IEC Code, or Import Export Code, is mandatory for any exporter. This code is a unique identifier assigned to your business.
A Shipping Bill is required for your cargo to leave India, serving as official permission. This document needs to be carefully prepared and submitted to the relevant authorities.
A Certificate of Origin proves that your product was made in India, which is essential for customs clearance. This document helps ensure that your product meets the necessary regulations.
A Bill of Lading or Airway Bill is issued by your carrier, providing a record of the shipment. This document is vital for tracking and verifying the movement of your cargo.
Here's a quick rundown of the key documents you'll need:
- IEC Code (Import Export Code)
- Shipping Bill
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
Organic and Chemical Exports
India has a strong presence in the organic and chemical exports sector. The country exports a wide range of organic and inorganic chemicals to countries like Europe, the USA, and China.
Organic chemicals are a significant contributor to India's exports, with the country being a major exporter of agrochemicals, organic, and inorganic chemicals to numerous countries across South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia.
India's vegetarian population and limited beef consumption have created a surplus of buffalo meat, which is a major export item. The country also exports pork and seafood, with many land-locked countries relying on India for their seafood requirements.
Here are some key products in India's organic and chemical exports:
- Organic and inorganic chemicals
- Dyes and pigments
Agricultural Produce
India is a significant player in the global market for agricultural produce. The country's diverse climate and fertile land make it an ideal place for growing a wide range of crops.
One of the main exports from India's agricultural sector is spices. India is known for its high-quality spices, including turmeric, black pepper, and cardamom.
The country also exports a lot of tea and coffee, including premium varieties of both. These are mainly shipped to markets in the USA, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
India is home to many different types of rice, including non-basmati and basmati varieties. These rice varieties are in high demand globally.
Here are some of the main agricultural exports from India:
- Spices like turmeric, black pepper, and cardamom
- Tea and coffee, including premium varieties
- Lots of rice varieties, including non-basmati and basmati
Precious Stones & Jewelry
India is a leading exporter of precious stones and jewelry, with a rich history of producing high-quality pieces. The country's expertise in precious metals and stones has been honed over centuries, making it a major player in the global market.
The USA, UAE, and Hong Kong are among the top markets for Indian precious stones and jewelry. Gold and silver jewelry, cut and polished diamonds, and imitation jewelry are some of the most sought-after products.
India's expertise in precious stones and jewelry has also led to the development of a thriving market for artificial and precious jewelry. This diversification has helped the country tap into new markets and increase its export revenue.
Some of the most popular types of precious stones and jewelry exported from India include:
- Gold and silver jewelry
- Cut and polished diamonds
- Imitation jewelry
The quality of precious stones and jewelry is crucial in determining their value and export potential. A slight variation in quality can significantly impact the cost and demand for these products.
India's expertise in precious stones and jewelry has made it a top exporter of local handmade jewelry, with a significant market demand in countries like the USA and UAE.
Pharmaceuticals
India has made a name for itself in the pharmaceutical industry, with a strong presence in the global market. The country's expertise in producing medicines from natural sources has set the foundation for its growth in this sector.
Pharmaceuticals are among the top products exported from India, with a significant demand in markets such as Africa, Europe, and the USA. In fact, India supplied 20% of the global generic medicines in 2019.
The top pharmaceutical export products from India include generic medicines, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and finished drugs (FDFs). India is also a leader in pharmaceutical factories, with over 8,100 drug production facilities across the country.
Here are some key statistics about India's pharmaceutical industry:
- Rank: 14th globally in terms of value
- Size: 3rd in the world
- Global generic medicines supplied: 20% in 2019
- Number of drug production facilities: over 8,100
As a result, the pharmaceutical and drug products export business is among the most liquid and lucrative export businesses globally. This presents a significant opportunity for small exporters in India to tap into this growing market.
Chemical
India is a significant player in the chemical export market, with a wide range of products being shipped out to countries like Europe, the USA, and China.
India's chemical exports include organic and inorganic chemicals, as well as dyes and pigments, making it a valuable sector for the country's economy.
The country's strong position in the market is due in part to its large vegetarian population, which means there is a surplus of meat products, including buffalo meat and pork, that can be exported.
India is also a major seafood exporter, fulfilling the seafood requirements of many land-locked countries.
Here are some of the key chemical products exported from India:
- Organic chemicals
- Inorganic chemicals
- Dyes and pigments
Rankings and Lists
India's export rankings reveal some interesting facts. The country's top export products include textiles and garments, with cotton yarn and fabrics being a significant contributor.
Cotton yarn and fabrics are a major export item, accounting for a substantial share of India's total exports. India's textile industry is a significant employer, with millions of people relying on it for their livelihood.
Marine products, such as shrimp and fish, are another key export category, ranking 19th in the list of top export products from India.
IT and Software Essentials

Indians have made significant strides in the IT and software sector, becoming experts in software products and IT-related services. This has led to IT and software services becoming a major export market.
One of the key areas of expertise is software solutions, which have become a crucial part of businesses and daily life.
Our main markets for IT and software services include Australia, the UK, and the USA.
These countries have a high demand for IT consultancy and outsourcing services, which is where Indian companies can offer their expertise.
Here are some of the key areas where Indian companies excel:
- Software solutions
- IT consultancy and outsourcing services
Top 50 Items
India's export market is booming, with products like cotton yarn and fabrics being accepted in large quantities. These textile exports are a significant contributor to the country's growing trade surplus.
The Indian market is also producing a surplus of marine products, including shrimp and fish. This is a promising trend for the country's economy.

Auto components and parts are another key export item, with the industry showing positive growth. This is a reflection of the country's increasing focus on manufacturing and exports.
India's engineering goods sector is also doing well, with iron and steel products being in high demand. This is a testament to the country's growing industrial capabilities.
The export of silk and silk products is also on the rise, with the Indian market showing a significant increase in demand for these luxury goods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top 10 items exported from India to USA?
India's top export products to the USA include pearls, precious stones, metals, and electrical equipment, as well as pharmaceuticals and vehicles. These diverse goods account for a significant portion of India's exports to the US market.
Sources
- https://www.leremitt.com/blogs/most-exported-products-from-india
- https://khatabook.com/blog/most-rewarding-export-products-in-india/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_exports_of_India
- https://www.gfebusiness.org/blog/list-of-products-exported-from-india/
- https://blog.intoglo.com/top-50-products-exported-from-india/
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