Exports still in doldrums

NEW DELHI, JUNE 4: Continuing the dismal performance of 1997-98, exports recorded a meagre 2.2 per cent growth at USD 2578.17 million in April this year, leading to a higher trade deficit of $ 876.81 million.

As per the latest trade figures released by the government today, the 2.2 per cent export growth was on a lower base of $ 2522.32 million (at a negative five per cent growth) in April 1997.

Imports on the other hand registered a 13.93 per cent growth at $ 3454.98 million dollars from $ 3,132.44 million in the same period last year.

Though the import bill on the whole swelled, the prime import commodity — petrol, oil and lubricants — was down by over 29 per cent at 480.27 million dollars from $ 677.95 million in April 1997.