India’s Major Trading Partners: Latest Trade Report 2025

India’s Major Trading Partners

India’s trade profile has undergone a significant transformation over the past few years, driven by shifting global dynamics, supply chain diversification, and new trade agreements. The 2025 trade report offers an insightful look into india top trading partners, revealing how economic ties are strengthening with some nations while becoming more competitive with others. 

Guided by authentic exim trade data, this analysis highlights india's largest trading partners and breaks down the key sectors and trends shaping India’s external trade environment.

India’s Top Trading Partners in 2025

United States: The Dominant Partner

The United States maintains its position as India’s largest trading partner for the fourth consecutive year. Bilateral trade between the two nations in FY 2024-25 is estimated at approximately US$132 billion. India’s exports to the US include pharmaceuticals, diamonds, textiles, and machinery, while imports largely consist of aircraft parts, electronics, and oil.

A key highlight is that India enjoys a substantial trade surplus with the US, close to US$41 billion, according to the latest exim trade data. The growing collaboration in technology, defense, and renewable energy is expected to expand this trade volume even further in the coming years.

China: A Complex Partnership

Despite geopolitical challenges, China remains one of india's largest trading partners. However, the trade balance remains heavily tilted in Beijing’s favor. Imports from China — mainly electronics, machinery, chemicals, and raw materials surged by over 11% in FY 2024-25, while exports declined by about 14%.

India’s government has been taking steps to reduce import dependence on China through initiatives like “Make in India” and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. Yet, Chinese products still dominate several sectors due to their affordability and supply-chain efficiency.

United Arab Emirates: A Strategic Gateway

The UAE continues to serve as a vital trading partner and re-export hub. Trade between India and the UAE exceeded US$100 billion in FY 2024-25. The two countries share deep economic ties supported by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which has opened new opportunities for exporters in gems, jewelry, textiles, and electronics.

Additionally, the UAE is one of India’s top sources of crude oil and precious metals. The ease of doing business and logistics connectivity make the UAE a vital node in India’s global supply chain network.

Saudi Arabia: Energy Partner of Choice

Energy security remains central to India’s trade strategy, and Saudi Arabia continues to be a leading supplier of crude oil. In return, India exports refined petroleum products, chemicals, and food items. The trade relations are not limited to energy Saudi investments in India’s infrastructure and green hydrogen projects are also on the rise.

Russia: Rising Energy and Commodity Trade

Russia’s position among india top 10 trading partners has strengthened, largely due to discounted crude oil and fertiliser imports. Bilateral trade has expanded significantly over the past two years. However, payment settlement challenges and logistics routes continue to pose minor constraints. According to Eximpedia, there’s growing interest among Indian importers to diversify trade logistics through alternative maritime corridors to ensure stability.

Indonesia and Iraq: Commodity Strengths

Indonesia and Iraq have both emerged as crucial trade partners. India sources coal, palm oil, and other commodities from Indonesia, while Iraq remains one of the key crude oil suppliers. These relationships underscore India’s dependence on raw materials and energy imports from the Asian and Middle Eastern regions.

Singapore and Hong Kong: Hubs for Finance and Re-Exports

Singapore and Hong Kong are important conduits for financial transactions and re-exported goods. With Singapore’s advanced logistics infrastructure and trade agreements, it plays a pivotal role in facilitating Indian trade with ASEAN nations. Hong Kong, on the other hand, remains significant in the electronics and jewelry segments.

South Korea: Technology and Manufacturing Ally

South Korea continues to strengthen its presence in India’s industrial ecosystem. From electronics to heavy machinery, the bilateral relationship is characterized by technological collaboration and investment. Hyundai, Samsung, and LG are major contributors to this growing trade relationship, supported by strong demand in both markets.

Trends Shaping India’s External Trade

Several factors influence how india top trading partners are ranked and how trade patterns evolve each year:

  • Energy and Commodity Demand- Crude oil and gold continue to be major import items, influencing the trade balance.

  • Technology and Electronics- Imports of high-tech goods, chips, and components fuel manufacturing growth.

  • Trade Surpluses and Deficits- Surpluses with nations like the US and the UK offset deficits with China and energy exporters.

  • Policy and Agreements- Free trade pacts and tariff reforms are improving access to global markets for Indian exporters.

These shifts emphasize India’s intent to diversify exports while gradually reducing import dependency through domestic production incentives.

Key Insights for Businesses and Exporters

  • Diversify beyond traditional markets to manage geopolitical risks.

  • Use authentic exim trade data from trusted sources like Eximpedia to track product-wise opportunities.

  • Focus on emerging sectors like renewable energy, digital goods, and food processing for global competitiveness.

  • Leverage government-backed trade initiatives and agreements to expand market access.

After Word

The 2025 trade landscape clearly demonstrates India’s expanding footprint in global commerce. With the US, China, and the UAE at the forefront, the list of india's top 10 trading partners continues to evolve as India builds stronger economic ties with both established and emerging markets.

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