India-China Trade Touches $92 Billion in First Half of 2026
Indian exports to China rise 39% amid stronger economic engagement
By Sitaram Mewati | Mumbai
India-China bilateral trade reached about US$92 billion in the first half of 2026, while Indian exports to China increased by around 39 per cent year-on-year from April to August, Chinese Consul General in Mumbai Qin Jie said at an India-China BRICS Dialogue Seminar in Bengaluru on September 29.
Qin said the rise in Indian exports was supported by value-added products, including electronics, mobile phone components and telecommunications equipment. He described the growth as an encouraging development in economic engagement between the two countries.
The Consul General also highlighted the importance of continued engagement following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. He said India and China should implement the common understanding reached by their leaders, regard each other as partners rather than rivals, and work together to advance bilateral relations.
The seminar, organised by the Consulate General of China in Mumbai, brought together representatives from Indian media and academic circles. Qin underlined the importance of BRICS as a platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries.
China is scheduled to assume the BRICS chairmanship next year. Qin said China is willing to work with India to strengthen cooperation under the BRICS framework and promote greater practical cooperation among member countries.
He also highlighted the potential for stronger people-to-people exchanges, noting growing Chinese interest in India’s culture, food, films, dance, yoga and Buddhist heritage. Greater exchanges among young people, he said, could further strengthen mutual understanding.
The latest developments come amid renewed efforts by India and China to expand economic and people-to-people engagement. Indian exports to China have recorded strong growth in recent months, although the overall bilateral trade relationship continues to remain weighted in China’s favour.
