India's Engineering Exports Poised to Cross $250 Billion

India is set to achieve an ambitious $1 trillion export target by 2030, with the engineering sector contributing a substantial $250 billion, according to Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal. Speaking at a conference of construction equipment manufacturers on Sunday, Barthwal highlighted the sector’s pivotal role in India’s export landscape.

“India is known for leather, textile, and traditional sectors, but the engineering sector in India, which includes automobiles, equipment, etc., is almost close to 25 percent of the total exports. Tomorrow when India is looking at $1 trillion of exports, $250 billion of exports we are expecting from the engineering industry,” Barthwal said.

The secretary underscored how India’s burgeoning middle class and the government’s infrastructure push—including modernizing railways, expanding ports and airports, and developing roads—are critical drivers for this vision.

Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on multi-modal transport, Barthwal said, “In the process of energy transition, there will be demand for adopting technologies which have net-zero carbon emission. This will also create huge opportunities.”

He also noted India’s youth as a catalyst for innovation, citing their contributions to developing efficient charging systems and patent-worthy mobility technologies. “Prime Minister Modi at Bharat Mobility interacted with several youths who are looking for opportunities in the sector,” Barthwal said.

To strengthen the mobility industry, Barthwal stressed the importance of safe, seamless travel and global competitiveness. He urged industry leaders to establish global capability centers and leverage opportunities to expand internationally.