India’s Top 10 Imports in 2025: Detailed Insights, Data & Key Trading Partners
In this blog, we’ll explore India’s top 10 imports in 2025, key countries it trades with, major trends, and what it means for businesses looking to import products from India or track global trade flows.
India, one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, continues to play a pivotal role in global trade. As the demand for energy, technology, and essential commodities grows, the country's import landscape has evolved significantly. From crude oil and gold to electronics and chemicals, India's imports reflect its industrial needs, consumer preferences, and global economic partnerships.
In this blog, well explore Indias top 10 imports in 2025, key countries it trades with, major trends, and what it means for businesses looking to import products from India or track global trade flows.
Indias Import Overview in 2025
As per official trade data and industry analysis:
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India imported USD 67.52 billion worth of goods and services in February 2025, representing a decline of 11.34% compared to February 2024.
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For the April-May 2025 period, total imports are estimated at USD 159.57 billion, up 6.52% year-on-year.
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Indias merchandise imports reached an all-time high of over USD 710 billion in FY2024-25, a 16% increase from the previous fiscal.
These numbers clearly demonstrate Indias growing dependency on key sectors such as energy, electronics, and chemicals, while also highlighting shifts in trading partnerships and sourcing strategies.
Indias Top 10 Imported Products in 2025
Here is a detailed breakdown of the top commodities India imports:
| Rank | Product Category | Value (USD Billion) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mineral Fuels, Oils, and Distillation Products | $217.94 |
| 2 | Pearls, Precious Stones, Metals, Coins | $89.44 |
| 3 | Electrical and Electronic Equipment | $83.47 |
| 4 | Machinery, Nuclear Reactors, Boilers | $60.76 |
| 5 | Organic Chemicals | $25.65 |
| 6 | Plastics and Plastic Articles | $21.61 |
| 7 | Iron and Steel | $17.42 |
| 8 | Animal and Vegetable Fats, Oils, and Cleavage Products | $16.75 |
| 9 | Optical, Photo, Technical, and Medical Apparatus | $13.50 |
| 10 | Copper and Copper Articles | $10.33 |
1. Mineral Fuels and Oils
Crude oil and petroleum products dominate India's import chart. These fuels power transportation, manufacturing, and energy sectors. Key suppliers include Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Russia, UAE, and the US. The Russia-India trade corridor notably grew in 2024, with Russian oil imports surging over 800%.
2. Gold and Precious Metals
Gold remains culturally and economically significant in India. Imported primarily from Switzerland and UAE, gold is used in jewelry, investment, and as a financial hedge.
3. Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Smartphones, semiconductors, industrial electronics, and consumer devices are heavily imported, particularly from China, South Korea, and the US.
4. Machinery and Boilers
Industrial machinery, manufacturing components, and nuclear reactors are essential to Indias infrastructure and industrial growth. Imports come from Germany, Japan, the US, and China.
5. Organic Chemicals
Critical for pharmaceuticals, textiles, and agrochemicals. Sourced mainly from China, Singapore, and the EU.
6. Plastics and Related Articles
Used across packaging, construction, automotive, and household industries. Suppliers include Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and China.
7. Iron and Steel
Vital for construction and infrastructure. Imports come from Japan, South Korea, and China, supplementing local production.
8. Edible Oils and Vegetable Fats
India imports large volumes of palm oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil, largely from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Argentina.
9. Medical and Technical Equipment
Advanced optical and medical devices are imported for use in India's growing healthcare sector, sourced from Germany, Japan, and the US.
10. Copper and Copper Articles
Demanded by electrical, construction, and transportation industries. Imports are primarily from Chile, Zambia, and Congo.
Indias Top Import Partners
Indias primary import partners remain consistent but show evolving trends due to geopolitical shifts and economic strategies:
| Country | Import Value (USD Billion) |
|---|---|
| China | $101.75 |
| Russia | $61.43 |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | $48.02 |
| United States | $40.77 |
| Saudi Arabia | $31.81 |
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China remains the top partner for electronics, chemicals, and machinery.
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Russia has surged due to increased oil and fertilizer imports.
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UAE and Saudi Arabia play a crucial role in oil and gold trade.
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The USA contributes in technology, aircraft, and chemicals.
Import vs. Export: Trade Balance Dynamics
While India continues to be a major importer, its export base is expanding due to the Make in India initiative and free trade agreements (FTAs) with markets like the EU, UK, and ASEAN.
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Export value (AprilMay 2025): USD 142.43 billion (up 5.75%)
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Import value (AprilMay 2025): USD 159.57 billion (up 6.52%)
Indias exports include refined petroleum, pharma, rice, textiles, and auto components. As trade liberalizes, opportunities for export products from India to Europe and other countries continue to grow.
Market Opportunities for Importers
Indias import market presents lucrative opportunities across:
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Electronics (especially smartphones, semiconductors)
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Medical Equipment (due to rising healthcare demand)
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Edible Oils and Agri Inputs
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Machinery for Manufacturing & Infrastructure
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Precious Metals and Gems for Jewelry Sector
How Can Eximpedia Help?
If you're a trader or business owner looking to import or export from India, platforms like Eximpedia.app can help you access:
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HS Code Search Tools for accurate classification
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Real-time Import Export Data across industries
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Top Suppliers & Buyers Lists
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Trade Analytics for country-wise and product-wise reports
Whether youre targeting exports from India to Europe or tracking import products from India, Eximpedia provides seamless data intelligence.
Conclusion
Indias import sector in 2025 continues to evolve in response to global trends, domestic demand, and strategic supply chain shifts. The dominance of crude oil, electronics, chemicals, and precious metals reflects both infrastructure needs and consumption trends.
For businesses looking to import from or export to India, understanding these top product categories and trading partners is critical. With the right data, partners, and compliance strategies, the Indian market offers boundless potential.