West Bengal, which is on India’s eastern coast, is very important to the country’s exports. The state has a long history of industrial expansion, agriculture, and handicrafts. These are now joined by new industries, such as IT and pharmaceuticals. Export Products from West Bengal go to more than 100 nations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America, with Kolkata as the main port. West Bengal exports are a mix of old and new, from famous Darjeeling tea to steel, leather, and IT services.

Geographic & Economic Overview of West Bengal

West Bengal’s economy is helped by its good location, rich Gangetic plains, and well-established industrial routes. The state is a trading center for South Asia and the rest of the world since it has access to Kolkata Port and Haldia Port. Export from Kolkata has become a global success story because of a mix of agriculture-based businesses, heavy engineering, textiles, and IT. The strength of West Bengal’s main export from Kolkata comes from the mix of old industries and new ones.

Kolkata is a major exporter of West Bengal for pharmaceuticals, IT/software, leather, jewelry, and engineering items.

Key Export Hubs

  • Kolkata – Pharmaceuticals, IT/software, leather, jewelry, engineering goods.Howrah – Howrah exports steel, iron, and engineering.
  • Darjeeling – Darjeeling is known around the world for its tea exports.
  • Murshidabad & Nadia – Murshidabad and Nadia make handloom silk and traditional sarees.
  • East Midnapore & South 24 Parganas – East Midnapore and South 24 Parganas export marine and seafood.

Top 20+ Export Products from West Bengal

Below is a detailed profile of the leading Export Products from West Bengal:

1. Iron & Steel

Iron and steel form one of the largest major exports of West Bengal, with Durgapur and Burnpur serving as production hubs. These products are vital for infrastructure, automotive, and manufacturing industries worldwide. The state supplies both crude and finished steel to developing markets, maintaining consistent global demand

  • Bangladesh, Nepal, and the UAE are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 3+ billion annually
  • Use/Industry: Building, cars, and industrial machinery
  • Global Demand Trend: High in developing markets
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge comes from having access to coal, iron ore, and industrial belts.

a. Iron and Steel Products (Made Items)

West Bengal exports include fabricated commodities, including steel buildings, tools, and sheets. Fabricated steel items from Howrah and Kolkata dominate Kolkata exports in industrial hardware and construction materials. With growing infrastructure projects globally, demand remains strong in Asia and Africa.

  • Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and African countries are the top importers.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 1.5 billion+
  • Use/Industry: Engineering, construction, and heavy machinery
  • Global Demand Trend: Going up as Asia and Africa become more industrialized
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: Howrah has a lot of skilled engineers.

b. Iron Ore

Mining belts in West Bengal send raw iron ore to other countries. Iron ore is one of the traditional Export Products from West Bengal, sent mainly to East Asian countries for steelmaking. Its high-grade reserves contribute to India’s mineral exports.

  • China, Japan, and South Korea are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 1 billion+
  • Use/Industry: Making steel
  • Trend in Global Demand: Going up with investments in infrastructure
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: lots of reserves near steel clusters

2. Jewelry with gold and other precious metals

Kolkata is known for its goldsmiths and jewelry makers, who craft both ornaments and luxury goods, making the city a hub for export from Kolkata and contributing significantly to the overall Exports of Gems and Jewellery from India.

  • The UAE, Hong Kong, and the US are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 2.5 billion+
  • Usage/Industry: Jewelry and other high-end goods
  • High demand in the Middle Eastern and Asian regions around the world
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: Kolkata’s skilled artisans make heritage jewelry.

a. Jewelry and Gems (Gemstones)

In addition to gold, Kolkata exports a wide range of jewels, including diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. The cutting and polishing of gemstones contribute heavily to West Bengal exports, especially for colored stones like emeralds and rubies. These are supplied to luxury markets in Thailand, the USA, and Hong Kong. Rising demand for bespoke jewelry has strengthened West Bengal’s footprint.

  • The US, Thailand, and Hong Kong are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 800 million+
  • Use/Industry: Jewelry and high-end accessories
  • Global Demand Trend: More people are choosing colorful stones.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: skilled cutting and polishing units

3. Things made of leather

Footwear, belts, wallets, and industrial leather make up most of Kolkata exports. Leather products, especially footwear, handbags, and export shoes, are popular Export Products from West Bengal. Kolkata’s leather tanneries produce quality goods exported to Germany, Italy, and the UK. This sector remains strong thanks to the fashion industry demand worldwide.

  • The countries that import the most are Italy, Germany, and France.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 1.2 billion+
  • Fashion, accessories, and industrial applications are some of the ways this is used.
  • Trend in Global Demand: More people want eco-friendly leather.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: Kolkata is a leather hub with experienced tanners.

4. Fish and shrimp from the sea

Marine and aquaculture exports constitute a very important portion of West Bengal exports. Leather products, especially footwear and handbags, are popular Export Products from West Bengal. Kolkata’s leather tanneries produce quality goods exported to Germany, Italy, and the UK. This sector remains strong thanks to the fashion industry demand worldwide.

  • The United States, Japan, and Vietnam are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 2+ billion annually
  • Use/Industry: Processing seafood, hospitality
  • Global Demand Trend: Growing as more people eat fish around the world
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: coastal fishing and aquaculture

5. Processing shrimp and other seafood

Shrimp that has been processed in East Midnapore is one of West Bengal exports. Shrimp processing units in Medinipur and South 24 Parganas boost Kolkata exports with frozen and processed seafood. These meet international food safety standards and are popular in the US and EU markets. Processed shrimp exports continue to grow with rising global demand.

  • The US, China, and Japan are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 1 billion+
  • Usage/Industry: Supply of frozen seafood
  • Global Demand Trend: More and more people want packaged seafood.
  • Shrimp cultivation clusters and processing hubs give West Bengal a competitive edge.

6. Oil Products

The Haldia refinery ships out gasoline and refined petroleum products. Haldia refinery’s refined petroleum is a big part of West Bengal exports because it meets the energy demands of nearby countries. Products like diesel, petrol, and lubricants are shipped to Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar. Global demand remains stable despite price fluctuations.

  • Bangladesh, Nepal, and the UAE are the top countries that import.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 3.5 billion+
  • Industry and use: transport and energy
  • Trends in Global Demand: steady but sensitive to pricing
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge is its strategic refinery at Haldia port.

7. Rice (not basmati)

A lot of rice from Bengal is sent out of Kolkata. Rice is a significant part of Export Products from West Bengal, as the state is India’s rice bowl. Non-basmati varieties are exported to Bangladesh, the Middle East, and Africa. Its consistent quality ensures high demand across developing nations.

  • Most imports come from Africa, Bangladesh, and the Middle East.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 1.8 billion+
  • Use/Industry: Export of staple foods
  • Trend in Global Demand: Demand is going up in South Asia and Africa.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge comes from its fertile Gangetic plains and rice mills.

8. Raw materials for plastic

West Bengal exports industrial polymers and resins as part of its goods. Haldia’s petrochemical hub supports export from Kolkata in plastic resins and raw materials. These are used globally in packaging, household goods, and manufacturing. Eco-friendly recycling initiatives are helping West Bengal’s plastic exports remain competitive.

  • The UAE, the UK, and the US are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 400 million+
  • Usage/Industry: Packaging, building, and industrial goods
  • Global Demand Trend: Stable, with a focus on recyclables
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: Petrochemical centers close to Haldia

9. Organic Chemicals:

Exports help the pharmaceutical and agricultural chemical sectors around the world. Haldia’s petrochemical hub supports export from Kolkata in plastic resins and raw materials. These are used all throughout the world to make things, package things, and make things.  Eco-friendly recycling programs are helping West Bengal’s plastic exports stay competitive.

  •  The USA, the Netherlands, and China are the three countries that buy the most. 
  •  Value and Share of Exports: Over $600 million
  •  Use/Industry: Farming and pharmaceuticals
  •  Global Demand Trend: Going up in a few areas
  •  West Bengal’s competitive edge: chemical clusters in and around Kolkata

10. Goods for engineering

Engineering goods from Howrah’s industrial clusters make up a significant part of kolkata exports. Products include industrial tools, equipment, and heavy machinery. Export destinations include Bangladesh, the UAE, and African countries.

  • The countries that buy the most goods are Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 2 billion+
  • Usage/Industry: Building, infrastructure, and machinery
  • Global Demand Trend: Rising in underdeveloped countries
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge is its strong industrial base and skilled workers.

11. Crops grown on farms (jute, sugarcane, maize, pulses, oilseeds)

One of West Bengal’s most famous exports is jute. Jute, maize, and oilseeds are key Export Products from West Bengal, sustaining eco-friendly industries worldwide. Jute bags and fibers are in strong demand across Europe for sustainable packaging. Maize and pulses find markets in Asia and Africa.

  • Most of the things that come into the country come from Bangladesh, Nepal, and EU countries.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 1 billion+
  • Agro-industries, textiles, and packaging are some of the industries that use it.
  • Trend in Global Demand: More and more people want eco-friendly jute.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: it is the world’s top producer of jute.

12. Tea (Darjeeling Tea)

All around the world, Darjeeling tea is known as a Geographical Indication (GI). Darjeeling tea is the crown jewel of West Bengal exports, globally recognized for its aroma and quality. It holds a GI tag and is exported mainly to the UK, Germany, and Japan. Demand is particularly strong among specialty tea consumers.

  • The UK, Japan, and the US are the top importers.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 250 million+
  • Usage/Industry: drinks, high-end tea market
  • Global Demand Trend: Organic teas are always in great demand.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge is its GI-tagged high-quality tea from Darjeeling.

13. Handloom Textiles (Murshidabad Silk, Shantipuri, and Tangail Sarees)

Heritage textiles are one of the cultural Export Products from West Bengal. Murshidabad silk and Tangail sarees add cultural richness to the export from Kolkata. These handlooms are highly valued in markets like the US, UK, and Japan. Demand is rising as sustainable and artisanal textiles gain global popularity.

  • Export Value & Share: USD 100 million+
  • The US, Japan, and the UK are the top countries that buy things.
  • Use in the fashion and luxury fabrics industry
  • Global Demand Trend: More and more people are liking handmade fabrics.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: villages of traditional silk weavers

14. Handicrafts Kolkata sends out clay, wood, and terracotta crafts.

Handicrafts, including terracotta, dokra art, and wooden carvings, are niche major exports of West Bengal. These items are sold mainly in Europe and the US. Rising appreciation for handmade, eco-friendly goods boosts this sector.

  • The most important countries for imports are France, Germany, and the US.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 80 million+
  • Use/Industry: Home decor, souvenirs, and lifestyle
  • Global Demand Trend: More and more people want handmade goods.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: a rich history of artisanship

15. Products for processing food

West Bengal exports are supported by processed fruits, vegetables, and potatoes. Processed foods from Bengal’s fertile fields are strong contributors to Kolkata exports. Frozen vegetables, fruit-based snacks, and ready-to-eat items are shipped to the Middle East and South Asia. Convenience food demand is fueling growth.

  • The Middle East, the United States, and Southeast Asia are the top importing countries.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 300 million+
  • Use/Industry: Snacks in packages and frozen foods
  • The trend in global demand is rising as people live faster lives.
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: agro-processing businesses close to Kolkata

16. Drugs and medical equipment

A new area for Export Products from West Bengal. Medical goods are a growing category in Export Products from West Bengal. Kolkata-based companies supply affordable healthcare devices and generic drugs worldwide. The US, Africa, and Southeast Asia are major buyers.

  • The USA, the UK, and Africa are the top importing countries.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 500 million+
  • Usage/Industry: Pharmaceuticals and healthcare
  • Trend in Global Demand: Demand is rising after the epidemic.
  • West Bengal’s Competitive Edge: Growing pharma clusters in Kolkata

17. Exports of IT and software

Digital services export from Kolkata IT clusters is helping the city export more, while contributing to the growing momentum of electronics export from India in global markets. Kolkata is an emerging hub for IT services, making IT a vital part of West Bengal exports. Software development, BPO, and outsourcing services are in demand in the US, UK, and Europe. The digitalization boom fuels further expansion.

  • The US, the UK, and the EU are the top countries that import goods.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 1.5 billion+
  • IT services, outsourcing, and cloud computing are some of the things that use this.
  • Global Demand Trend: The digital economy is getting bigger.
  • West Bengal’s competent labor and cheap IT parks provide it an edge over other states.

18. Clothes and hosiery (clothes and knitwear)

West Bengal’s principal exports are mostly clothes. Garments and hosiery from Kolkata’s textile hubs are a strong part of the major exports of West Bengal. The state supplies fashion and sportswear to Europe and North America. With fast fashion demand, apparel exports are rising.

  •  The US, the EU, and Japan are the three biggest importers.
  •  Export Value & Share: USD 800 million+
  •  Usage/Industry: Clothing for retail and fashion
  •  Trend in Global Demand: Rising with demand for fast fashion
  •  West Bengal’s Competitive Edge: Knitwear Industries in Kolkata

19. Cement and Clinker:

Industrial exports that assist in meeting the world’s need for building. Cement and clinker production in Asansol and Durgapur contribute to Kolkata exports. These products are supplied to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Construction booms in developing economies ensure steady demand.

  •  Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the Middle East are the countries that buy the most.
  • Export Value & Share: USD 300 million+
  • Use/Industry: Building and infrastructure
  • Global Demand Trend: Growing in underdeveloped countries
  • West Bengal’s competitive edge: Cement plants close to mining areas

Top International Markets for West Bengal Exports

  • United States & UK – IT services, leather, pharmaceuticals, tea
  • UAE & Middle East – Jewellery, petroleum, rice, seafood
  • Bangladesh & Nepal – Iron & steel, cement, agro-products
  • Japan & Southeast Asia – Tea, marine products, textiles
  • European Union – Leather goods, handicrafts, jute products

Conclusion

The Export Products from West Bengal reflect a perfect balance of tradition and modern industry. Major exports of West Bengal include Darjeeling tea, jute, IT services, and pharmaceuticals. These goods meet a wide range of needs around the world. Leather, steel, jewelry, and IT services remain Kolkata exports, thanks to the robust infrastructure at Haldia and Kolkata ports. West Bengal exports are likely to reach new heights thanks to rising worldwide demand and government backing. This will make the state a major exporter of West Bengal in world trade, and you can learn more through our detailed about us section.