Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said that despite the continuing tensions in West Asia, the country's exports have shown a healthy increase during the first-three weeks of April so far. Moreover, he stated that free trade agreements finalised by India would provide a major boost to the domestic industry.

He mentioned ‘There is an increase in exports during the first three weeks of April as compared to the same period of last April… Despite the war in West Asia, there is tremendous enthusiasm among domestic exporters.’ On exports to West Asia, he noted that consignments are taking alternative routes because the Strait of Hormuz is still a challenge.

Besides, talking about the progress of trade pact talks with the US, he said ‘We had very good discussions, I think, about a week ago. Our team is back, and we continue to engage.’ He stated the government has concluded several agreements with countries such as UAE, UK, EU, four European nation bloc EFTA (European Free Trade Association), Australia, Mauritius, and Oman. he added ‘Another 12 are on the anvil.’ Moreover, he said India is negotiating a trade agreement with Israel, Gulf Cooperation Council, and Canada.