Current Affairs/International Relations GS2 · International Relations14 Jul 2026 · The Hindu — Business
India’s imports from China soar to $80 billion in first half of 2026, exports up 37%
Two-way bilateral trade was up to $91.72 billion after six months, a 23.6% rise from last year, and on track to surpass the record $155.62 billion trade figure from 2025
Quick Revision
Prelims-testable facts
- 01India's imports from China reached $80 billion in the first half of 2026.
- 02India's exports to China increased by 37% in the first half of 2026.
- 03The two-way bilateral trade between India and China was up to $91.72 billion after six months, a 23.6% rise from last year.
- 04India's exports to China rose to $80.45 billion in January 2026, a 13.2% increase from the same month last year.
- 05The growth in services exports contributed substantially to India's overall export figures in January 2026.
- 06India's merchandise trade deficit with China widened to $310.60 billion compared to $261.80 billion during the same period in FY25.
- 07Bilateral trade between India and China is on track to surpass the record $155.62 billion trade figure from 2025.
Trap alerts
- Most people think that India's imports from China have surpassed its exports, but actually, two-way bilateral trade has increased by 23.6% in the first half of 2026.
- Most people think that the growth in services exports is solely responsible for India's overall export figures, but actually, merchandise exports also contributed significantly to this growth.
Mains Practice Question
Critically examine the implications of India's rising trade deficit with China, particularly in the context of its economic and strategic relationships.
250 words
Practice this in the exam hall →Prelims Practice MCQs
Single facteasy
India's imports from which country have soared to $80 billion in the first half of 2026?
- A.China
- B.Japan
- C.South Korea
- D.Vietnam
India's imports from China have reached $80 billion in the first half of 2026, a significant increase in bilateral trade.
Single factmedium
What is the total two-way bilateral trade between India and China after six months?
- A.$80 billion
- B.$91.72 billion
- C.$100 billion
- D.$110 billion
The two-way bilateral trade between India and China has reached $91.72 billion after six months, a significant increase from last year.
Single facthard
What is the record high of India-China trade that was achieved in 2025?
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