India, the third-largest manufacturer in Asia, has become a big participant in the athletic goods market and has made great strides in enhancing its soft power. India exports a wide range of athletic items to over 200 nations, including the US, China, the UK, and Australia. Items include inflatable balls, general exercise equipment, cricket gear, clothing, and more. Sports goods exported to the USA have recorded significant growth of 48% to reach US$ 198.8 million, growing from US$ 134.7 million in the previous year (2021-22). Similarly, exports to the UK, Australia, and Germany have increased by 42%, 32%, and 32%, reaching US$ 74.7 million, US$ 33.2 million, and US$ 32.8 million in 2021-22, respectively. From April 2022-August 2022, exports to the US stood at US$ 118.31 million, the UK stood at US$ 31.34 million, Germany stood at US$ 17.53 million, and Australia stood at US$ 15.19 million.
As per India Exim Bank analysis, the UK is the largest importer of India's export of Tennis balls, inflatable balls, and other balls (excl. golf balls, and table tennis balls), followed by Australia and UAE in the same order of exports. For festive article exports, the USA is the major importer with a significant share of the overall exports. UAE is one of the key importers of articles and equipment for table tennis, tennis, badminton, and similar rackets commanding a major share of the total exports. India's exports of Water Sports Equipment have significant demand from countries like Spain and Sri Lanka. India's exporters actively tap developing countries like Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, Chile, Columbia, Argentina, Nigeria, Peru, and Ecuador, which have significant demand for sports equipment and supplies.