August 30, 2025 — India’s trade with African countries has crossed the $100 billion mark in the financial year 2024–25, nearly doubling compared to five years ago. The announcement was made by Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, at the 20th CII India-Africa Business Conclave in New Delhi.
Minister Singh highlighted that India has emerged as one of the leading investors in Africa, with cumulative investments exceeding $75 billion since 1996. He also pointed out India’s support for Africa’s development through concessional loans totaling over $12 billion, grant assistance of $700 million, and more than 42,000 scholarships provided to African students.
The conclave, themed “Co-creating a Shared Future,” focused on boosting trade, exploring investment opportunities, and addressing challenges like climate change and sustainable development.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal proposed a structured trade exchange, suggesting India export vehicles and dairy products while importing diamonds, gold, petroleum, pulses, and other agricultural products from African nations. He emphasized that such trade could help African economies facing external disruptions.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has further facilitated trade, allowing Indian industries to expand across the continent. India aims to double trade with Africa to $200 billion by 2030, reflecting its long-term commitment to strengthening economic ties and shared growth.
