New Delhi, Oct. 15 -- India's merchandise trade deficit widened to USD 30.21 billion in September from USD 26.86 billion in August, as imports rose faster than exports in absolute terms, according to data released by the Department of Commerce.

However, the deficit narrowed from around USD 33 billion recorded in September 2025.

Merchandise exports increased 23 per cent year-on-year to USD 44.40 billion in September, the highest in four months. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal attributed the growth to higher shipments across sectors, particularly petroleum products, meat, dairy and poultry products, handicrafts and some cereals, business standard reported.

Merchandise imports rose nearly 11 per cent year-on-year to USD 74.61 billion du...