Export contraction in April could surpass March's steep 25-year decline

Major forex earning sectors cite lack of labour, funds and key supplies

Financial year 2020-21 is expected to begin on a somber note for India's exports, which are likely to continue sliding in April after a record fall in March. Lack of labour, liquidity and key raw materials dogged even the few industrial units that had managed to reopen once industry was partially allowed on April 20, exporters complain.

In March, exports had contracted by 34.5 per cent - the steepest monthly fall in at least 25 years - as overseas demand remained lackluster due to the coronavirus pandemic. In the following month, a few export units such as those in the