India starts fiscal with a $13.5-bn trade deficit in April

India has amassed a trade deficit of an estimated $13.49 billion in April 2012, the first month of the current financial year, adding to the pressure on an already depleted rupee amidst dim outlook for the domestic economy.

The trade deficit for April 2012 was higher than the deficit of $12.85 billion during April 2011.

India imported goods valued at $37.94 billion in April 2012, which was 3.83 per cent above the April 2011 figure of $36.54 billion.

In rupee terms, India's imports grew 21.25 per cent to Rs1,96,583.90 crore from Rs1,62,131.31 crore in April 2011.

Exports during April 2012, on the other hand, were valued at $24.46 billion, which was 3.23 per cent higher than exports valued at $23.69 billion in April 2011.

In rupee terms, India's exports rose 20.54 per cent  to Rs1,26,708.46 crore during April 2012, from Rs1,05,114.17 crore in April 2011.