Maruti Suzuki targets higher exports in FY27 as Japan becomes 3rd largest overseas market

Maruti Suzuki is targeting higher exports in FY27 despite problems in the Middle East, as Japan emerges as its third-largest overseas market and the carmaker strengthens its position as India’s leading passenger vehicle exporter.

The country’s largest carmaker now accounts for almost 50 percent of passenger vehicles exported from India, chairman RC Bhargava said in his address to shareholders in the company's annual report for FY26.

“Japan has become our third-largest export market. Export volumes are targeted to increase from last year’s level, despite the problems in the Middle East,” Bhargava said.

Maruti Suzuki exported a record 447,774 vehicles in FY2026 and remained India’s largest passenger vehicle exporter for the fifth consecutive year.

Managing director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi said in his message to shareholders that Maruti Suzuki vehicles are now sold in nearly 120 countries through Suzuki Motor Corporation’s global distribution network. The broad geographical presence has reduced dependence on any single region and strengthened the resilience of the company’s export business.

Exports will continue to play an important role in Maruti Suzuki’s growth strategy. The commencement of e Vitara exports has enabled the carmaker to re-enter advanced markets such as Europe and Japan, while strengthening India’s position within Suzuki’s global operations, Takeuchi said.

Maruti Suzuki is also increasing the use of rail to move vehicles while reducing logistics costs, emissions and the risk of damage in transit.

Rail accounted for 26.5 percent of the company’s vehicle dispatches in FY2026. Maruti Suzuki expects the share to increase to 28 percent in FY2027.

“Moving cars by using rail transport continues to be a priority activity,” Bhargava said.

The railway siding at Maruti Suzuki’s Manesar plant is operational and has delivered cost savings and greater convenience. Bhargava said rail transport also reduces the carbon impact of vehicle dispatches and carries a lower risk of damage in transit.

A similar railway siding is planned at the company’s Kharkhoda manufacturing facility in Haryana, where two production lines have been commissioned and work is progressing on the third.