July trade deficit at 23.5 bln vs 20.98 bln in June
July goods exports at 33.98 bln vs 35.20 bln in June
July goods imports 57.48 bln vs 56.18 bln in June

NEW DELHI, Aug 14 Reuters India39;s trade deficit widened in July, hurt by weak exports, government data showed on Wednesday, amid renewed doubts about the resilience of the global economy.

The merchandise trade deficit was 23.5 billion in July, higher than economists39; expectation of 21.35 billion, according to a Reuters poll. In June, the trade deficit was 20.98 billion.

India39;s merchandise exports were 33.98 billion in July, while imports were 57.48 billion, the data showed.

In June, merchandise exports were 35.20 billion, while imports were 56.18 billion.

Second consecutive month of decline in goods exports suggests global demand is still sluggish. Ninemonth high goods trade deficit is not a good sign for the economy and currency, said Devendra Pant, an economist at India Ratings and Research.

Fears of a recession in United States after weak jobs data shook investor confidence earlier this month, leading to a global sell off and highlighting the fragile nature of recovery in the world economy.

Amid uncertainties, India is exploring new markets such as Africa and is looking to diversify its export goods basket to offset the weakness in western economies, Trade Secretary Sunil Barthwal told reporters in New Delhi.

India39;s services exports, however, held steady during in July.

Services exports…