Kolkata: India's engineering exports rose 8.8% year-on-year in April 2026 to $10.3 billion from $9.5 billion in the same month last year, despite logistical and production disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict.
Drivers of Export Growth
The growth was primarily driven by several key sectors, including aluminium and its products (38% increase), copper and its products (80% increase), electric machinery and equipment (9.5% increase), two- and three-wheelers (36% increase), and auto components and parts (7.2% increase).
Of the 34 engineering product panels, 28 panels achieved year-on-year export growth during the month under review.
Industry Commentary
Commenting on the engineering exports data, Pankaj Chadha, chairman of EEPC India, said growth in April was noticed in almost all sectors and regions. He noted that the decline was mainly observed in the WANA (West Asia and North Africa) region, which has been significantly impacted by regional conflicts. However, within the region, exports to Oman increased, which is a positive indicator, especially given the recently signed India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Chadha emphasized that India has signed several free trade agreements (FTAs) with major partners, but the industry needs to understand the key challenges in market access in these countries to fully leverage such deals.
Destination-wise Performance
India's engineering exports to most key destinations, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany, remained positive in April 2026. However, shipments to the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia declined during this period. Notably, engineering goods exports to China rose by a remarkable 81.7% year-on-year to $301.08 million in April 2026.
