Business

India’s Exports Drop for Fourth Consecutive Month in February, Reaching USD 36.91 Billion

Published

1 year ago

March 18, 2025

According to data from the Commerce Ministry, India’s exports fell for the fourth consecutive month in February, amounting to USD 36.91 billion. This decline is attributed to fluctuations in petroleum prices and ongoing global uncertainties. In February of the previous year, exports were at USD 41.41 billion.

Nonetheless, the trade deficit for February decreased to USD 14.05 billion, as imports dropped to USD 50.96 billion during the same month.

For the April-February period of the current fiscal year, total merchandise and services exports increased by 6.24 percent, reaching USD 750.53 billion, compared to USD 706.43 billion during the previous year.

In a media briefing, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal acknowledged the challenges faced in FY25, but expressed confidence that the country is on track to achieve USD 800 billion in combined goods and services exports for the financial year.

The data also indicated that merchandise exports were recorded at USD 36.43 billion in January, down from USD 37.32 billion a year prior. In December, exports totaled USD 38.01 billion compared to USD 38.39 billion the previous December, while November’s outward shipments decreased from USD 33.75 billion to USD 32.11 billion year-over-year.

On the services side, exports significantly increased to USD 35.03 billion in February 2025, up from USD 28.33 billion in February 2024. Imports also rose to USD 16.55 billion from USD 15.23 billion a year earlier.

Overall, total imports combining both merchandise and services were recorded at USD 67.52 billion in February 2025, a marked decline from USD 76.15 billion in February 2024.

The non-petroleum export sector experienced robust growth, with a remarkable 14.47 percent increase in January 2025. Key contributors included rice exports, which surged by 44.61 percent, and a revival in gems and jewelry exports, which saw a 15.9 percent increase in January 2025.

Earlier this month, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) highlighted potential risks to international trade in 2025, including shifts towards more protectionist U.S. trade policies, inward-looking industrial strategies in numerous countries, the threat of escalated trade wars, and ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Additionally, the World Trade Organization (WTO) revised its forecast for global merchandise trade growth down to 3 percent for 2025, a reduction from its prior estimate of 3.3 percent. Concerns were also raised that any escalation in conflict in the West Asia region could impact other areas, resulting in further shipping disruptions and increased energy prices due to heightened risk premiums.

Business

Tomato Prices Crash from Rs.1200 to Rs.80, Farmers in Distress

Published

3 weeks ago

March 25, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business: Tomato prices in Vijayanagara district have dropped sharply, causing heavy losses to farmers and traders. A box of tomatoes that was earlier sold for Rs.1000 to Rs.1200 is now being sold for just Rs.80 to Rs.100.

Due to the sudden fall in prices, farmers are struggling to recover their investment. Many had taken loans to grow the crop and are now facing financial difficulties.

In local markets, traders are selling tomatoes at very low rates. Around 2 to 4 kilograms of tomatoes are being sold for just Rs.20.

The price crash has been linked to multiple reasons. Export of tomatoes to other countries has reduced due to the Iran–Israel conflict. In addition, many hotels are not operating properly due to a shortage of cooking gas cylinders. This has reduced demand for tomatoes.

As a result, both farmers and sellers are facing serious losses, and the situation has become very difficult for them.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; 24K Gold at Rs.13,564 per Gram

Published

3 weeks ago

March 24, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been updated today, reflecting the latest market trends.

The price of 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.13,564 per gram. Meanwhile, 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is priced at Rs.12,434 per gram. The rate for 18 karat gold (75% purity) is Rs.10,173 per gram.

Mangaluru, known for its rich coastal culture and love for seafood, also has a deep connection with gold. The demand for gold ornaments in the city remains strong, especially during weddings and festivals.

The gold trade in Mangaluru has a long history and continues to play an important role in the local economy. Many families prefer investing in gold due to its cultural and financial value.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making any purchase, as gold prices may change daily based on market conditions.

For those planning to buy gold, using a Gold Rate Calculator can help in getting accurate pricing based on weight and purity.

Business

Good News for Milk Producers in Chikkaballapur – 50 Paise Increase per Litre

Published

1 month ago

March 8, 2026

Namma Kudla

Chikkaballapur: The Chikkaballapur Milk Union (Chimul) has announced good news for milk producers in Chikkaballapur district. The union has decided to increase the milk procurement price by 50 paise per litre, which will benefit dairy farmers in the district.

Earlier, on January 1, Chimul had increased the price by Rs.1 per litre as a New Year benefit to farmers. Now, the union has announced an additional 50 paise increase.

With this latest revision, dairy farmers will receive Rs.36.40 per litre for milk. The 50 paise increase will remain in effect until the end of May.

Chimul President Manjunath Reddy told Public TV that the union will review its profits and may continue the price increase in the future based on financial performance.

The decision is expected to provide some relief and encouragement to dairy farmers in Chikkaballapur district.