New Delhi, April 18 -- India's trade deficit with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has surged, more than doubling since the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2010.

According to figures released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India's exports to ASEAN member countries stood at USD 25,627.89 million in the year 2010-11, while imports from these nations amounted to USD 30,607.96 million.

However, the situation has deteriorated significantly over the past decade, with the deficit expanding at an alarming rate.

In the fiscal year 2022-2023, India's exports to ASEAN countries were posted at USD 44,000. 42 million, but imports surged far ahead at USD 87,577.42 million during the same period.

This...