Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor have reported significant increases in international sales, marking a turnaround in India's two-wheeler export market. Total motorcycle and scooter exports rose nearly 37% year-on-year, driven by demand from Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
New Delhi, India Jul 24, 2026 ALN: Mumbai: India’s two-wheeler export market is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor leading the charge. In the June quarter, Bajaj Auto sold more two-wheelers overseas than in the domestic market for the first time since Q1 FY23. Meanwhile, TVS Motor reported its highest-ever international sales, indicating a significant turnaround in the sector.
The total exports of motorcycles and scooters surged nearly 37% year-on-year, reaching approximately 1.5 million units in the June quarter, up from 1.1 million units a year earlier, according to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). This growth is largely fueled by increasing demand across regions such as Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
The revival in exports has coincided with a resilient domestic market, bolstered by a reduction in two-wheeler prices following the government's GST cuts last September. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) reduction was a strategic move aimed at making two-wheelers more affordable for consumers, thereby stimulating demand. TVS Motor's domestic sales rose by 25% to 1.14 million units in the three months ending June, outpacing the overall market growth of 20%. In contrast, Bajaj Auto's domestic sales increased by a more modest 11% to 586,547 units, as the company prioritized exports amid ongoing supply chain challenges.
The surge in exports is not limited to Bajaj and TVS. Other manufacturers, including Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, Hero MotoCorp, and Suzuki Motorcycle India, have also reported gains in their export volumes. This collective growth underscores a broader trend in the Indian two-wheeler industry, which has been increasingly looking to international markets for expansion opportunities. Bajaj Auto, in particular, achieved a record export of 636,005 two-wheelers in the June quarter, surpassing its domestic sales by nearly 50,000 units. This shift not only reflects the company's strategic focus but also highlights the growing global competitiveness of Indian manufacturers.
Rakesh Sharma, joint managing director at Bajaj Auto, expressed optimism about the export business, stating that it has established a strong growth momentum. He anticipates that monthly exports will exceed 250,000 units starting this quarter. The demand from Africa, particularly for the Boxer Heavy Duty motorcycle in Nigeria, has been a significant contributor to this growth. The Boxer model has gained popularity in various African markets due to its durability and cost-effectiveness, appealing to both individual consumers and commercial users.
TVS Motor mirrored this trend, reporting record international sales of 419,737 units in the June quarter, marking a 66% increase year-on-year. The company is also optimistic about maintaining this growth trajectory in the coming months. Their success can be attributed to a diversified product range that caters to different market segments, including entry-level bikes, scooters, and premium motorcycles, which have found favor in various international markets.
The surge in India's two-wheeler exports must be viewed within the context of global market dynamics. As countries recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a resurgence in demand for personal mobility solutions. Two-wheelers are often seen as a cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation, particularly in densely populated areas where traffic congestion is a concern. This trend is particularly evident in developing countries, where urbanization is driving the need for affordable transportation options.
Additionally, the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is influencing the two-wheeler market. Indian manufacturers are increasingly investing in electric two-wheelers, aiming to capture a share of the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. The government's push for EV adoption, including incentives and subsidies, is further motivating manufacturers to innovate and expand their electric offerings. This transition could open up new export opportunities as international markets seek environmentally friendly transportation solutions.
Despite the positive trends, the Indian two-wheeler industry faces several challenges that could impact future growth. Supply chain disruptions, particularly in sourcing components, remain a significant concern. The global semiconductor shortage has affected various sectors, including automotive, and Indian two-wheeler manufacturers are not immune to these challenges. Ensuring a stable supply of critical components will be essential for maintaining production levels and meeting export demand.
Moreover, geopolitical tensions and trade policies can also affect export dynamics. As countries navigate trade agreements and tariffs, Indian manufacturers may need to adapt their strategies to mitigate potential risks. Building strong relationships with international partners and understanding local market conditions will be crucial for sustained success in global markets.
The resurgence in India's two-wheeler exports highlights the sector's potential for growth in international markets. With strong demand from various regions and a supportive domestic environment, manufacturers are well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum. However, navigating the challenges ahead will require strategic planning, innovation, and adaptability. As the global landscape continues to evolve, the Indian two-wheeler industry must remain agile to seize emerging opportunities while addressing potential risks.
The Indian two-wheeler industry has a rich history that dates back to the early 1950s, when the first motorcycle was introduced in the country. Over the decades, the industry has evolved significantly, transitioning from a focus on local production to becoming a key player in the global market. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the liberalization of the Indian economy, foreign manufacturers began to enter the market, leading to increased competition and innovation.
Today, the Indian two-wheeler market is one of the largest in the world, driven by a combination of factors including affordability, fuel efficiency, and the growing middle-class population. The rise of urbanization and the need for efficient transportation solutions have also played a significant role in the industry's expansion.
The Indian government's policies have had a profound impact on the two-wheeler industry. Initiatives aimed at boosting manufacturing, such as the Make in India campaign, have encouraged domestic production and attracted foreign investment. Additionally, the government's focus on promoting electric vehicles through subsidies and incentives has paved the way for manufacturers to diversify their product offerings and explore new markets.
Furthermore, regulatory measures aimed at improving safety standards and reducing emissions have prompted manufacturers to innovate and enhance the quality of their products. These policies not only benefit consumers but also contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of the industry.
Consumer preferences in the two-wheeler segment have also evolved over the years. There is a growing demand for motorcycles that offer advanced features such as connectivity, safety technologies, and improved performance. Manufacturers are responding by investing in research and development to create products that cater to the changing needs of consumers.
Moreover, the trend towards electric two-wheelers is gaining traction as consumers become more environmentally conscious. The increasing availability of charging infrastructure and advancements in battery technology are further driving the adoption of electric vehicles in the two-wheeler segment.
As the Indian two-wheeler industry continues to navigate the complexities of a changing global landscape, its ability to adapt to consumer preferences, embrace technological advancements, and respond to market demands will be crucial for sustained growth. The current surge in exports is a testament to the resilience and competitiveness of Indian manufacturers, but the road ahead will require ongoing innovation and strategic foresight to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
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