Topic
commerce
India-EU FTA Includes Dedicated CBAM Annexure Framework, Says Commerce Official Darpan Jain
India's Additional Secretary of Commerce Darpan Jain announced that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement includes a separate annexure on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). The framework outlines a work plan to assist Indian SMEs with compliance, including provisions for future flexibility. The commerce ministry plans a nationwide outreach to help businesses leverage the agreement, which covers nearly USD 33 trillion in combined trade.
Trade India and UAE Ministers Hold Talks to Strengthen Trade and Investment Ties in New Delhi
Union Minister Piyush Goyal held a meeting with UAE Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri in New Delhi to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral ties. Discussions covered trade, investment, tourism, and connectivity, reaffirming a shared commitment to unlock new opportunities for businesses and enhance people-to-people ties.
India Exports $140 Million in Duty-Free Goods on Day One of UK Trade Pact
India exported $140 million worth of goods at zero duty on the first day of the UK-India Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA). The pact grants duty-free access to nearly 99% of Indian exports. Key sectors include leather, textiles, gems, and electronics. The government procurement chapter opens a GBP 90 billion UK market to Indian suppliers, with safeguards for MSMEs.
India and EU Near Completion of Legal Scrubbing of Free Trade Agreement Text, Says Minister Piyush Goyal
India and the European Union are close to completing the legal scrutiny of their free trade agreement text, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. The legal scrub should be over in another week or two, with the pact operationalised a few months after the India-UK trade agreement, which takes effect July 15. Goyal also highlighted potential for 10-fold growth in India-Spain trade, currently at $9.2 billion.
E-Commerce & Marketplaces Survey of 9,000 Consumers Reveals Pricing and Tax Transparency Key to Cross-Border Growth
A global survey of 9,000 consumers across nine markets reveals that pricing clarity, duties, and tax transparency are critical factors for conversion and trust in cross-border e-commerce. The findings underscore the need for sellers to clearly communicate total landed costs and comply with customs regulations.
Minister Piyush Goyal Wins UK-India Award for Elevating Trade Ties, CETA Set for July 15
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal was honoured with a special UK-India Award at the tenth anniversary of the India Global Forum (IGF) UK-India Awards 2026. The award ceremony, held on Thursday evening, celebrated the upcoming entry into force of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) on **July 15**. Goyal stated that CETA will become a template for future free trade agreements.
AI-Driven Personalization Now Drives 75% of Meesho Orders, Signals Shift in Consumer Commerce
At the ETRetail E-Commerce and Digital Natives Summit 2026, Meesho's Goyal revealed that over 75% of orders now come from AI-powered personalized feeds. He outlined how AI is shifting commerce from search-led discovery to an intent-first model, with benefits across the value chain including reduced customer acquisition costs and improved inventory planning.
How Flipkart Uses Generative AI to Shift E-Commerce from Search to Intent-Led Commerce
At the ETRetail E-Commerce and Digital Natives Summit 2026, Flipkart executives outlined how generative AI and agentic systems are transforming e-commerce from search-driven transactions to intent-led commerce. The shift enables conversational discovery, AI-powered seller tools, and agent-based workflows across the value chain.
Exports up 15% so far in June quarter despite global headwinds, says Piyush Goyal
India's exports have recorded a 15% increase so far in the June quarter, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. The announcement was made against the backdrop of global economic headwinds, though no sectoral or value breakouts were provided.
India-EU Free Trade Agreement to Be Signed by December, Implemented from February-March Next Year: Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the India-EU free trade agreement will be signed by December and implemented from February-March next year. The deal, described as the 'mother of all deals', will provide almost zero-duty access to the 27-nation EU bloc for Indian exports, while imports of luxury cars and wines from the EU will become less expensive. Negotiations concluded on January 27, and the second round of CEPA talks was held in May.
Trade Commerce tariff finding on van imports may offer relief to Wabash National
The U.S. Commerce Department imposed preliminary countervailing duties on van trailer imports from China (82.3%-128.7%) and Mexico (<2%), following a complaint by the American Trailer Manufacturers Coalition. The move may provide relief to Wabash National, which recently received a debt downgrade from S&P Global Ratings. The duties require immediate cash deposits, with final determinations expected in mid-August for China and mid-December for Mexico.
Trade The Iron Insurance Collapse: A $130 Million Lesson
The Iron Insurance initiative by Knight-Swift, aimed at small carriers, resulted in a $130 million collapse. The program, tied to telematics and safety compliance, failed due to overwhelming volume and inadequate risk management.
Trade New Tariffs Trigger Early Trans-Pacific Peak Season
New tariffs and rising fuel costs have accelerated the trans-Pacific peak shipping season, with significant rate hikes reported. The U.S. Trade Representative's new tariffs on 60 countries and potential tariffs on Brazil and others are key factors.
India's Seafood Exports Overcome Tariff Hurdles
India's seafood industry has rebounded from US tariffs, achieving record exports of $8.46 billion in FY26. Diversification into markets like the EU and China has driven this growth.
India, US Near Completion of Trade Deal Talks
India and the US are nearing the completion of a bilateral trade agreement, with only minor details remaining. The deal aims to strengthen economic ties and address tariff issues.
Logistics CMA CGM's $2,600 Surcharge Signals Peak Season Surge
CMA CGM has announced a $2,600 surcharge on containers from the East Mediterranean to U.S. East Coast ports, reflecting peak season demand. This increase affects shipments from several countries, with implications for freight forwarders and logistics managers.
India, US Discuss Non-Tariff Measures to Boost Trade
India and the US are negotiating non-tariff measures to strengthen bilateral trade. Discussions include customs and trade facilitation, with a focus on economic security alignment.
India Monitors US Tariff Moves Amid China Concerns
India is closely monitoring the US's proposed 12.5% tariffs on 54 countries, with a particular focus on potential impacts on China. Indian exporters are concerned about maintaining their competitive edge as global buyers diversify away from China.
India-Oman FTA Boosts Livestock Exports
The India-Oman Free Trade Agreement, effective June 2026, provides duty-free access to Indian livestock products, boosting exports to Oman. This strategic move enhances India's presence in the Gulf market.
Logistics Genco and Diana's Standoff Continues Amid Bid Rejection
Genco Shipping & Trading has rejected Diana Shipping's latest takeover bid, citing undervaluation. This ongoing standoff affects the dry bulk market, with implications for shareholders and future negotiations.
Logistics Ocean Freight Rates Surge Amid Peak Season and Geopolitical Tensions
Ocean freight rates have surged by $1,000 per FEU on major east-west trade lanes due to early peak season demand and geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf. Carriers like MSC and Maersk are implementing additional rate increases.
BHEL wins Rs 2,000 crore order from Nigerian firm
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Trade India and US Engage in Trade Dialogue Amid Proposed Tariffs
India is actively engaged with the US regarding proposed tariffs under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is working towards a framework agreement, with public hearings scheduled for July.
Oman Boosts Petchem, Fertiliser Exports as FTA Begins
Oman and India have initiated a free trade agreement, enhancing trade in petrochemicals and fertilisers. The agreement, effective June 1, 2026, reduces tariffs on 99% of Indian exports and 78% of Omani imports.
Logistics WWEX and Auctane Merge to Form ShipStation Global
WWEX Group and Auctane have merged to create ShipStation Global, a comprehensive AI-enabled logistics platform. This merger aims to streamline logistics for small and midsize businesses by integrating freight brokerage with advanced shipping technology.
India, US Advance Trade Talks in Delhi with June Delegation
India and the US are set to continue trade negotiations in Delhi from June 1-4, 2026. The talks aim to finalize an interim trade pact, focusing on tariffs, market access, and economic cooperation.
Business Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern's $85B Merger Advances
Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern's $85 billion merger advances as the Surface Transportation Board delays a decision, avoiding a historic second rejection. The merger aims to create the first transcontinental railroad, though market reactions have been mixed.