New Delhi, May 15 -- India's merchandise trade deficit widened in April as the increase in exports outpaced the rise in imports.

The gap between merchandise imports and exports was $28.38 billion last month, according to provisional estimates released by the ministry of commerce and industry on Friday. Merchandise exports were estimated at $43.56 billion, up from $38.28 billion a year earlier. Imports were at $71.94 billion compared with $65.38 billion in April 2025.

The overall trade deficit, including services, narrowed to $7.81 billion in April from $11.16 billion a year ago. Total exports, including merchandise and services, rose to $80.80 billion from $71.13 billion, while total imports increased to $88.61 billion from $82.29 billi...