The Minister recently held a monthly meeting with exporters, who he described as “enthusiastic” despite the war in West Asia.
In March 2026, merchandise exports stood at $38.92 billion, down from $42.05 billion in March 2025, when trade flows were impacted by geopolitical factors, particularly in West Asia.
Exports to the region in March 2026 had fell 57.95%, in a decline of $3.5 billion compared to the year-ago period. Imports from West Asia had also dropped 51.6% during March 2026.
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Stating that new trade agreements coming into effect will increase export possibilities across labour-intensive and agri-based sectors, he highlighted that the Indian trade delegation is back after “good discussions” with their US counterparts on the finalised first tranche of a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), even as the engagement is continuing.
On FDI numbers, the Minister reiterated the comment by the Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) made recently, indicating that FDI in FY 2025-26 may cross $90 billion.
On the recently concluded assembly elections, he said that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is hopeful of retaining power in Assam and Puducherry, of winning a majority in the Tamil Nadu and West Bengal state assemblies, and hopes to increase its vote share in Kerala.