India’s Trade Flourished in Q4 2024, Defying Global Risks
India’s trade sector showed strong growth in the last quarter of 2024, even as global economic uncertainties remained high. According to the latest report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), India performed better than many developed nations, which faced trade slowdowns.

India’s Trade Performance: Key Highlights

• Goods Imports: Increased by 8% in the last quarter and 6% on an annual basis.

• Goods Exports: Grew by 7% quarterly and 2% annually.

• Services Imports: Increased by 7% in Q4 and 10% over the year.

• Services Exports: Rose by 3% quarterly and 10% on an annual basis.

India’s services sector, especially IT and business services, played a major role in maintaining trade growth, reinforcing the country’s position as a strong player in global outsourcing.

Factors Driving India’s Trade Growth

Several key factors contributed to India’s trade expansion in 2024:

• Manufacturing Push: Government initiatives like Make in India and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes boosted industrial production and exports.

• Diversification of Trade Markets: India expanded its trade relations beyond traditional partners, reducing dependence on select regions and ensuring a more stable trade network.

• Growth in Digital and E-Commerce Exports: Rising digital adoption led to increased software, IT-enabled services, and online trade transactions.

• Infrastructure Development: Ports, highways, and logistics hubs have been significantly improved, enhancing the efficiency of goods movement.

Global Trade Trends and Challenges

• In 2024, global trade expanded by $1.2 trillion, reaching $33 trillion.

• Goods trade increased by 2%, while services trade saw a 9% rise.

• Early 2025 data suggests a slowdown in trade due to reduced container shipping demand.

• The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index and Baltic Dry Index indicate declining shipping activity.

• Trade imbalances are widening, with protectionist policies and geopolitical tensions creating further challenges.

• The United States trade deficit has grown, while other nations have seen surpluses, affecting currency stability and trade flows.

• Inflation is expected to ease in 2025, which may stabilize global demand and supply chains.

What This Means for Freightnaut

With India’s trade volumes rising, the need for efficient logistics and supply chain solutions is greater than ever. Freightnaut is well-positioned to help businesses manage these changing trade dynamics.

• Managing Freight Costs: With global shipping rates fluctuating, businesses need cost-effective logistics solutions.

• Expanding Trade Routes: As India looks to new trade partners, logistics firms have opportunities to explore new markets and routes.

• Technology in Freight Management: Digital platforms will be critical in ensuring efficient tracking, timely deliveries, and improved logistics planning.

• Handling Supply Chain Disruptions: As geopolitical risks impact trade patterns, Freightnaut can help businesses adapt by offering real-time tracking, route optimization, and data-driven logistics solutions.

Freightnaut also helps businesses streamline documentation processes, ensuring smooth and hassle-free trade operations.

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