India’s share of global trade rises as ASEAN partnership reaches $128 billion

New Delhi – The latest trade bulletin issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry indicates that India’s collaboration with ASEAN nations generated $128 billion in bilateral trade during FY 2025‑26. The surge has lifted India’s contribution to world trade to around 11 percent, highlighting the strategic importance of Southeast Asian markets.

The statement noted that ASEAN remains a pivotal gateway for Indian manufacturers and service providers seeking diversified export destinations. Growth was driven by stronger demand for Indian pharmaceuticals, engineering goods and information‑technology services, alongside rising imports of ASEAN’s electronics, agriculture products and raw materials.

To keep the upward trajectory, India hosted the 13th AITIGA Joint Committee from 6 to 10 July, bringing together senior officials from both sides. The joint session reviewed the status of the Agreement, pressed for the swift conclusion of outstanding chapters and assigned clear deadlines to the three subordinate committees dealing with customs procedures, market access and rules of origin.

The meeting was jointly chaired by Additional Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav and Malaysia’s Deputy Secretary‑General (Trade) Mastura Ahmad Mustafa, who urged all participants to cooperate closely and deliver tangible outcomes before the next review cycle.