In a striking development, India’s exports to the United States soared to an all-time monthly high of $11.2 billion in March 2025, marking a significant milestone in bilateral trade. This figure broke past the $10 billion threshold for the first time, reflecting nearly a 50% jump compared to the average monthly exports over the previous year. Data released by the United States Census Bureau revealed that the overall value of goods traded between the two nations for the month reached $15 billion, underscoring a remarkable increase in commercial activity.
This surge in exports aligned with a 90-day tariff suspension declared by U.S. President Donald Trump. The temporary pause, implemented to facilitate ongoing discussions for a bilateral trade agreement, appears to have encouraged businesses to accelerate shipments. During the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, India exported $27.7 billion worth of goods to the US while importing $10.5 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of $17.2 billion in India’s favor.
The surge in India’s export performance aligns with a broader pattern of increased US imports globally. Businesses across sectors rushed to bring in foreign goods ahead of anticipated tariff hikes under the United States’ evolving trade policy. As a result, the US reported a record overall trade deficit of $140.5 billion in March, rising sharply from $123.2 billion the previous month.
In 2024, goods trade between India and the U.S. climbed to $129.2 billion, up from $124.1 billion in 2023. Recent developments have placed India in a strong position to be the first country to seal a trade pact under the revised U.S. policy framework. India’s proposal includes removing tariffs on steel, auto parts, and pharmaceuticals within defined quotas—a strategic step aimed at boosting exports and finalizing a pivotal trade agreement.
