Top 10 Export-Contributing Districts Driving India's Trade: Gujarat and Tamil Nadu Lead

The ten leading export districts of India, dominated by the petroleum-oriented Jamnagar and the industrial powerhouse of Gujarat, have generated more than 25% of the national merchandise exports. These sites feature specific production of gems, automobiles, chemicals, and electronic products, which can support economic development.

Jamnagar leads in Indian exports with ₹3.96 lakh crore, propelled by the highest capacity refinery plant managed by Reliance Industries. It ships more than 97 percent of petroleum products and petrochemicals, representing a third of the total export of Gujarat. The district is also involved in the manufacturing of brass components to international markets, strengthening its industrial foundation.

Kanchipuram, in Tamil Nadu, is at the second position with ₹1.14 lakh crore, a significant jump of 4 positions in the past years, taking 2.23 percent of the national exports. It is dominated by automobiles, electronics, smartphones, leather goods, and textiles, with the latter contributing 40 percent of Indian exports. Chennai is rapidly developing due to its proximity to manufacturing hubs of the city.

Mumbai, in Maharashtra, also exports ₹90.69 thousand crore, specializing in gems and jewelry, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and textiles. It is a financial gateway and capitalizes on ports and logistics to make various deliveries to over 100 countries. The trade environment of the district promotes high-value services and merchandise.

Pune, in Maharashtra, supplies ₹89.28 thousand crore in the form of automotive parts, engineering products, information technology services, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. It is home to large auto clusters and enjoys skilled labor in Western Maharashtra. Its products include agricultural goods such as pomegranates as part of its wide range of products.

Surat, in Gujarat, contributes ₹86.29 thousand crore, primarily due to diamonds, which are processed in 9 out of 10 world markets, and textiles and gems. The Surat Diamond Bourse adds value to its position as a trading center by housing 4,500 offices of international traders. Infrastructure upgrades have indicated a growth of 12-14%.

Mumbai Suburban, in Maharashtra, exports ₹79.56 thousand crore in pharmaceuticals, engineering, electronics, and textiles, with a growth of 8-10 percent a year. The pharma and engineering sectors have over 5,000 SMEs which export their goods, contributing 74 percent of the total export of Maharashtra and Mumbai City. It is also top in gems and chemicals.

Kachchh, in Gujarat, realizes ₹69.78 thousand crore through Mundra Port, dealing with petroleum, minerals, chemicals, salt, and grains, with a 15-18 percent growth. Being the largest salt producer in Gujarat (more than 60 percent), it exports to Bangladesh and Korea. Lignite and minerals also provide value, and industries such as cement and power flourish here.

Ahmedabad, in Gujarat, supplies ₹68.30 thousand crore in ceramics, pharmaceuticals, engineering products, jewelry, and chemicals. Firms such as Adani and Meghmani Finechem are leaders in the export of specialty chemicals and polymers. Textiles are also a historical area of performance, employing more than a million people.

Gautam Buddha Nagar, in Uttar Pradesh, is another key district contributing to India's exports. It has a diverse range of industries including electronics, textiles, and engineering goods, making it a significant player in the national export landscape.

These districts not only contribute significantly to the national economy but also showcase the diverse industrial capabilities of India, ranging from traditional sectors like textiles and gems to modern industries like electronics and pharmaceuticals.