<h1>Trade deficit widens as exports decline, highlighting pressures on external balances and import dependence and policy implications.</h1> Exports fell for the third month with merchandise down due to petroleum price volatility and global uncertainties, while imports rose-driven by higher gold purchases-widening the monthly and cumulative trade deficits; certain sectors (electronics, pharmaceuticals, rice, gems and jewellery) showed healthy export growth and officials emphasised resilience in goods and services exports and an elevated aggregate export target for the next year.