According to the administration, the country's merchandise exports during the last month (May 2010) increased 35% to 16.1 billion dollars.

The figured released by the commerce ministry showed that imports in May grew by 30.8% to $27.4 billion year-on-year, broadening India's trade deficit to $11.3 billion.

In April-May 2010, exports figure remained at $33 billion, a 35.7% increase over the year-ago period.

Officials stated that the growth in the exports took place due to low base effect.

Moreover, the country is eyeing about 15% export growth during 2010-11.

India’s exports declined 4.7% during the last financial year (2009-10) as demand slumped because of worldwide slump.

During April, exports rose 36% to $16.9 billion as demand for gems and textiles went up. Imports during May climbed 43% from a year earlier to $27.3 billion and the trade deficit stood at $10.4 billion.

The total import in April-May was $54.7 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $21 billion. (With Inputs from Agencies)