Record Gold Imports in 2025-26: A Golden Surge Impacting India's Trade Balance

In a noteworthy economic development, India's gold imports escalated to an all-time high of USD 71.98 billion in the fiscal year 2025-26, according to data from the Commerce Ministry.

The surge is primarily attributed to rising gold prices, even as the actual volume of imports declined by 4.76% to 721.03 tonnes compared to the previous fiscal year.

Silver imports also witnessed a significant surge, with values increasing by 150%, and volumes rising by 42%. This sharp increase in precious metal imports has pushed India's trade deficit to USD 333.2 billion, prompting the government to impose import curbs on gold, silver, and platinum articles.