New Delhi - Merchandise exports in December 2024 stood at USD 38.01 billion, reflecting a slight 1% year-on-year decline. FIEO President, Mr Ashwani Kumar, attributed this drop to volatility in commodity and metal prices, along with ongoing international trade disruptions and currency fluctuations. Geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region further exacerbated logistical challenges, affecting export flows to key markets like Europe, Africa, and the CIS.

Mr Kumar emphasized the urgent need for enhanced support in the upcoming Budget, particularly through an expanded PLI Scheme, to boost manufacturing capacity and include labour-intensive sectors . . .