New Delhi, Feb. 16 -- India's merchandise trade deficit widened sharply in January following a surge in imports, even as demand for Indian goods in the US remained resilient despite steep 50% tariffs imposed on most shipments.

The trade gap of $34.68 billion was the highest in the current fiscal year so far, though still below the record $41.68 billion recorded in October 2025.

Merchandise exports declined to $36.56 billion in January from $38.51 billion in December, though they were marginally higher than $36.43 billion in January 2025. Imports surged to $71.24 billion from $63.55 billion in December 2025 and $59.42 billion in January 2025.

The trade gap in December had stood at $25.04 billion and $23 billion in January 2025, accordin...