India's exports to US stay flat in May despite record overall shipments as imports jump 54%

India's exports to the United States remained largely unchanged at USD 8.81 billion in May, compared with USD 8.82 billion a year earlier, while imports from the US surged 54.43% year-on-year to USD 5.87 billion, according to official trade data. The figures come even as India's overall merchandise exports touched a record USD 45.2 billion during the month, highlighting a divergence between the country's global export momentum and its largest export market.

The flat performance in US-bound exports reflects a cautious trading environment amid ongoing negotiations for an interim India-US trade agreement and continued uncertainty over future tariff policies. At the same time, stronger imports from the US indicate robust domestic demand for energy, industrial inputs and high-value goods, contributing to a wider bilateral trade flow.

For the logistics sector, the data signals that cargo volumes on the India-US trade lane remain resilient despite geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies. Exporters are expected to closely monitor progress in bilateral trade talks, as any tariff relief or market access measures could boost containerised exports in the coming months. Meanwhile, sustained import growth is likely to support demand for ocean freight, port handling, customs clearance and inland logistics services.

With engineering goods, electronics and petroleum products continuing to drive India's export performance, the outcome of the ongoing India-US trade negotiations will be a key factor shaping shipping demand and supply chain strategies during the second half of 2026.