India’s exports have reached an all-time high of $825 billion in the financial year 2024-25, which is 6.01 percent more than the previous year. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday that this achievement reflects the strength of Indian industry and growing confidence in global competition. He expressed confidence that India’s exports will reach greater heights this year. He also clarified that the government is making agreements with new partner countries around the world, so that Indian industries get more opportunities and the impact of any unilateral step can be reduced.
Addressing the ‘Bharat Buildcon 2026’ conference held in Delhi, Goyal said that India is rapidly entering into free trade agreements (FTAs) with developed countries. These include countries like Australia, UAE, Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland and Britain. Talks are also going on with the European Union (EU) and other countries. These agreements will open new opportunities for steel, construction and allied sectors.
Goyal said the government is fully prepared to ensure that Indian industry is not burdened by US measures like imposing import tariffs of up to 50 per cent on India for buying oil from Russia. He urged the industry to identify areas where alternative markets are needed.
On the export of steel and iron ore, he said that India can export 15 million tonnes of steel every year. This will further strengthen India’s export basket as Indian steel is of high quality and is available at affordable prices.
Referring to the shortage of about 1 million houses in Australia, the minister appealed to Indian industry, workers and experts not to miss this opportunity. He said that Australia is fully prepared to receive financial support, technical expertise and workforce from India. For this, Indian professionals are also being given training and certification as per Australian standards.
Goyal also emphasized on domestic consumption and said that the upcoming GST Council meeting may take decisions that will immediately boost demand and strengthen domestic manufacturing. He said that the government’s goal is that no sector should be left behind and India should become a reliable global supplier. For this, active participation of industries in quality control orders (QCOs) is necessary.
The Union Minister also said that some experts and media are not able to assess India’s potential properly. India has faced challenges like COVID-19 and nuclear sanctions and is now ready to increase its share in global trade. Regarding ‘Bharat Buildcon 2026’, he said that the event will be held from April 29 to May 2, 2026 at Yashobhoomi Convention Center in Delhi. It will cover 37 allied sectors like cement, ceramics, tiles, sanitaryware, paints, hardware and electricals. The event will help promote Indian products in international markets, attract investments and establish India as a reliable supplier.
