Indian exports to the United States faced a notable downturn in August, as several key sectors particularly textiles, leather, and kitchen essentials struggled under the weight of new trade barriers. The decline follows Washington’s recent decision to impose steep tariffs on goods originating from New Delhi, marking a new phase of strain in bilateral trade ties.
According to the Commerce and Industry Ministry, labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, and marine products recorded sharp drops in outbound shipments. Exports of leather goods fell by 11.9 percent, while pearls and semi-precious stones plunged by a staggering 54.2 percent. Handmade carpets too witnessed a decline of 13.85 percent, reflecting the broader slowdown across traditional export categories.
The United States implemented a 25 percent tariff on all Indian-origin goods starting August 7, which was doubled later in the month. This sudden increase in duties significantly impacted India’s export performance, with overall growth to the US slowing to a nine-month low of 7.15 percent. During the first five months of the current fiscal year, shipments had grown by 18.06 percent, showing how swiftly the tide has turned.
The data further revealed a 32.99 percent fall in marine product exports, a 35 percent dip in tyre shipments and an 18.6 percent decline in gold and precious metal jewellery. Cotton garments and drug formulations also slipped by 13.2 and 7.01 percent, respectively. Even kitchen staples such as tea, spices and basmati rice saw reduced demand, declining by 27.43, 9.79 and 2.33 percent.
The latest figures highlight the vulnerability of India’s traditional export sectors to shifting global trade dynamics, underscoring the need for diversification and renewed policy support to cushion against external shocks.
02:56 PM, Oct 15
Source : Tariffs Cast a Shadow: Indian Exports of Textiles, Leather and Kitchen Goods to US See Sharp Decline