India's Merchandise Exports Surge 26% in August, Trade Deficit Hits 5-Month Low

India recorded strong merchandise export growth in August, with overall shipments rising by more than 26 percent. Exports to the United States climbed over 21 percent, while shipments to China saw a sharper jump of 52 percent. Key sectors drove the broad-based export expansion during the month. Import volumes also rose, particularly in electronics and crude oil. The combined trade performance helped narrow India's merchandise trade deficit to its lowest level in five months.