In a year fraught with economic challenges and logistical nightmares, India’s goods exports have delivered a welcome surprise. With an 11.9% jump in February, reaching a staggering $41.4 billion, the nation has witnessed its healthiest growth in exports in 20 months. This achievement is not just about numbers; it’s a beacon of resilience in uncertain times. February’s performance marks only the third time in two years that India’s exports have crossed the formidable $40 billion threshold. This surge is particularly noteworthy, given it outpaced the average $35.4 billion export tally observed in the first ten months of the fiscal year.

The backdrop to this achievement includes daunting challenges such as disruptions in the Red Sea and a drought-stricken Panama Canal, which have constricted key trading routes, elevating both the cost and time of shipment. While recent trade figures might suggest India is navigating these logistical hurdles with ease, the reality could be more complex. Some of February’s success could be attributed to earlier dispatches, now reaching their destinations through longer, alternate routes.

This scenario suggests a blend of backlogged orders coming to fruition and signs of demand picking up, despite the high interest rates casting a shadow over global market conditions. Despite a challenging narrative for exports in 2023-24, with electronics goods exports barely budging, policymakers remain cautiously optimistic. Yet, the latest readings for electronic components trade and a marginal growth in electronics imports and exports in February underscore the need for vigilance and support for sectors like textiles, and gems and jewellery, which are critical for employment and economic stability.

As India celebrates its export milestone, the focus must remain on navigating the lingering challenges in global trade. The trade deficit, though widened by a significant jump in imports, including pricey gold, should not distract from the pressing need to bolster support for exporters.