India's merchandise trade deficit widened to $28.38 billion in April, compared to $20.67 billion in the previous month. The rise in trade deficit comes as Middle East conflict continues to hinder ‌shipments while making energy imports costlier. Merchandise exports were $43.56 billion in April compared to $38.92 billion in March, while imports stood at $71.94 billion compared to $59.59 billion.