New Delhi, March 29 -- India's trade deficit with Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners has grown by 23 per cent year-on-year to USD 26.7 billion in the second quarter of 2024-25, according to a recent Niti Aayog report.

This widening gap comes even as India continues to sign new FTAs with countries globally, with a particular focus on developed nations.

The report reveals that exports to FTA countries totaled USD 37.4 billion during the quarter, marking a 4 per cent year-on-year decline.

Key regions contributing to this overall drop included ASEAN, Singapore, and Australia. However, not all markets showed declines, with exports to Japan, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka experiencing growth, highlighting potential opportunities in these markets.

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