Gujarat retains top exporter status in India despite global headwinds

Gujarat continued to dominate India’s export landscape in 2025-26, retaining its position as the country’s largest exporting state despite facing global trade uncertainties and pricing pressures in key sectors.

According to data released by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Gujarat recorded exports worth $110.63 billion during the financial year, accounting for approximately 25.6 per cent of India’s total exports. The state maintained a substantial lead over Maharashtra, which ranked second with exports of around $70 billion and a 16.2 per cent share of the national export basket.

While Gujarat remained the country’s leading export hub, overall exports from the state declined by 4.9 per cent compared to the previous financial year. Industry observers attribute the slowdown to tariff-related challenges in major international markets and softer prices for several key export commodities.

Analysts noted that fluctuations in crude oil prices and continued weakness in the natural diamond market affected export earnings from the state. However, Gujarat’s long-standing strengths in infrastructure, industrial development, port connectivity and entrepreneurship helped it preserve its leadership position in external trade.

Petroleum products continued to be the backbone of Gujarat’s export economy, supported by the state’s extensive refining capacity. Jamnagar remained the largest exporting district in Gujarat, followed by Ahmedabad, Surat and Kutch, all of which play important roles in manufacturing, refining and logistics.

Apart from petroleum products, Gujarat’s major export categories include gems and precious stones, pharmaceuticals, organic chemicals, ceramics, agrochemicals, and iron and steel products.

The expansion of petrochemical and industrial clusters has enabled Gujarat to diversify its export portfolio and increase its presence in international markets. The state has emerged as a key supplier of chemicals, plastics, textiles and pharmaceutical products to regions such as Southeast Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

Despite near-term challenges, Gujarat’s export performance underscores its continued importance as a major driver of India’s international trade and industrial growth.