Trade deficit up to 8.18 bn

NEW DELHI, Apr 1: Sluggish export growth compounded with rising imports has pushed the trade deficit to 8.18 billion for April-February 98-99, up from 5.56 billion for the eleven month period in 1997-98.

According to the trade data issued by the ministry of commerce exports in February 8217;99 were up by 4.36 per cent compared to February 8217;98. Exports in February 8217;99 were valued at 2.81 billion against 2.70 billion in February 8217;98. Imports however registered a 10.31 per cent decline during February 8217;99 compared to last year.