Top 10 Export Products of India: Key Sectors Driving Global Trade

India has emerged as a global trade leader with a diverse range of export products that meet international demand. With its strong industrial base, skilled workforce, and rich resources, India contributes significantly to the global supply chain.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 export products of India, their importance in world trade, and the opportunities they create for Indian exporters.

1. Engineering Goods

Engineering goods hold the largest share among Indian exports. This includes machinery, automobiles, industrial equipment, and transport parts.

• Top destinations: USA, China, UAE
• Value: Over $52 billion (2021)

📌 If you are an exporter in this sector, ensure you have the correct SWIFT Code for international payments. Check SWIFT Code Finder here.

2. Petroleum Products

India is a hub for refined petroleum exports, meeting global energy needs.

• Top destinations: USA, China, Singapore
• Value: $86 billion (2022)

This sector plays a key role in India’s foreign exchange earnings. Exporters in this field must comply with DGFT documentation and customs clearance processes.

3. Gems and Jewelry

India is world-famous for diamonds, gold jewellery, and precious stones.

• Top destinations: USA, UAE, Hong Kong
• Value: $25.9 billion (2022)

Indian artisans are globally respected for their craftsmanship, making gems and jewellery one of the most profitable export businesses.

4. Pharmaceuticals

Known as the Pharmacy of the World, India exports generic medicines, APIs, and vaccines.

• Top destinations: USA, UK, South Africa
• Value: $19.5 billion (2022)

India’s pharmaceutical exports gained even more recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic. Exporters must be careful with FIRC and BRC compliance when receiving payments.

5. Textiles and Apparel

India has been a leader in cotton yarns, fabrics, and ready-made garments for centuries.

• Top destinations: USA, EU countries
• Value: $44 billion (2021-22)

Indian textiles are valued for their quality and diversity, making them a sustainable export category.

6. Organic and Inorganic Chemicals

India exports a wide range of organic and inorganic chemicals used in agriculture, manufacturing, and pharma.

• Export value: $30 billion (2023)
• Top markets: China, USA, Brazil

Chemical exports benefit from technological advancements and agricultural strength in India.

7. Dairy Products

India is one of the largest milk producers in the world. Dairy exports include milk powder, ghee, and cheese.

• Top markets: UAE, Bangladesh, Bhutan
• Key products: Indicine cattle milk, ghee exports

This sector also boosts the rural economy by supporting farmers and dairy cooperatives.

8. Leather Goods

India exports leather bags, shoes, and jackets, which are known for their durability and quality.

• Top destinations: Italy, China, USA
• Key buyers: Global fashion brands

Leather goods contribute significantly to India’s luxury exports.

9. Marine Products

With one of the longest coastlines in the world, India exports fish, shrimp, and seafood.

• Value: Nearly $7 billion annually
• Top markets: USA, EU, Japan

Marine exports provide employment to millions and strengthen India’s global food supply contribution.

10. Agricultural Products

India is a major exporter of rice, wheat, and cereals.

• Top markets: Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, UAE
• Key product: Basmati rice (a premium export commodity)

Agriculture not only earns revenue but also provides livelihoods to millions of Indian farmers.

Final Thoughts

The top 10 export products of India clearly highlight the country’s strong presence in international trade. From engineering and petroleum to agriculture and pharma, India’s export basket is diverse and ever-growing.

👉 If you’re planning to start or expand your export business, make sure you stay compliant with IEC registration, DGFT norms, and export documentation.

The No. 1 export product of India is petroleum products, followed by engineering goods and gems & jewellery. Petroleum exports contribute the highest share in India’s foreign trade earnings.

2. Which country imports the most from India?

The United States is the largest importer of Indian goods, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), China, and Bangladesh.

3. What are India’s main agricultural exports?

India mainly exports rice (including basmati), wheat, cereals, spices, and tea in the agricultural category. Basmati rice is one of the most profitable agricultural exports.

4. Which Indian products are in high demand worldwide?

Products such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, gems & jewellery, engineering goods, and IT services are always in high demand in international markets.

5. How can I start an export business from India?

To start an export business, you need to:

• Apply for an IEC (Import Export Code) from DGFT
• Open a current account for international transactions
• Comply with FIRC/BRC documentation for payments
• Find buyers through export promotion councils and online trade platforms

👉 Read our guide on How to Apply for IEC Code Online.