India’s merchandise exports jumped 26.12% in August to $43.81 billion, sharply outpacing import growth and helping narrow the monthly trade deficit despite a steep rise in global crude oil prices. Merchandise imports rose 14.1% to $70.67 billion, leaving the trade deficit at $26.86 billion, lower than $27.20 billion in August last year and $31.98 billion in July. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said the export momentum was continuing to build, with the latest numbers indicating that the surge was supported not only by higher prices but also by increased export volumes. The recovery began in April despite the supply chain disruptions caused by the West Asian war and US tariff assault.