Topic
demand
Trade India's gold imports surge 81.7% in April as duty hike fails to curb demand
India's gold imports jumped 81.7% year-on-year to $5.63 billion in April 2026, just before the government raised import duties on 13 May. Even after the duty hike, imports rose 34% in May to $3.42 billion, according to a GTRI report. The total effective tax burden now stands at about 18.4%.
Commodities Brent crude slips as markets await clarity on US-Iran peace deal details
Brent crude futures edged lower on Tuesday as traders remained cautious after the US-Iran peace deal announcement lacked specific terms. August Brent slipped 0.30% to $82.92, while WTI eased 0.12% to $80.65. President Trump claimed ships carrying oil are moving out of the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran's President Pezeshkian said a final agreement has not yet been reached, keeping markets on edge.
Technology AI chip boom yet to lift South Korea's wider economy, Nomura economist sees limited spillover
South Korea's AI-driven semiconductor boom has yet to meaningfully lift the broader economy, according to Nomura senior economist Park Jeong-woo. Semiconductor export strength is largely price-driven with unexceptional volume growth, and consumption remains mixed with luxury spending up but auto sales down. Nomura expects the Bank of Korea to raise rates in July to 3.25% due to financial stability concerns, despite inflation being supply-driven.
Business Skilled Blue-Collar Talent Demand Surges 500% for Robotics as AI Drives 'Labour Flip'
Randstad analysis of 50M+ job postings reveals demand for skilled blue-collar roles in India surged dramatically, with robotics technicians up over 500%. The 'labour flip' is narrowing pay gaps between blue-collar and entry-level white-collar jobs.
Trade Inflation Fuels Unconventional Consumer Behaviour in India with Stockpiling and Premium Home Spending
The article by Harish Bhat in The Hindu BusinessLine outlines seven counter-intuitive consumer responses to inflation in India, including accelerated stockpiling of essentials, a shift to larger packs, increased spending on premium home groceries, and a preference for domestic products. These trends have direct implications for import demand, packaging, and supply chain strategies.
Trade China's Exports Surge 19.4% in May on Tech and EV Demand
China's exports increased by 19.4% in May, fueled by strong demand for semiconductors and electric vehicles. Exports to the US surged over 35%, marking significant growth.
Commodities Gold and Silver Prices Plunge Amid Oil Rally and Strong Dollar
Gold prices fell by ₹4,300 to ₹1.56 lakh per 10 grams, and silver dropped by ₹10,000 to ₹2.45 lakh per kg in India. The decline is attributed to a surge in oil prices and a stronger US dollar, impacting bullion demand.
Commodities India's Dairy Demand Surges in Smaller Cities
India's dairy market is expanding beyond metropolitan areas, with smaller cities like Thrissur and Manipal driving demand for value-added dairy products. This shift is fueled by rising incomes and improved cold-chain infrastructure.
Commodities Maharashtra Onion Farmers Demand Higher Procurement Prices
Maharashtra onion farmers are demanding a minimum procurement price of Rs 3,000 per quintal, citing current rates as insufficient to cover costs. Despite relaxed procurement norms, farmers face financial distress due to low prices.
Logistics IndiGo Halts Flights to Six Destinations Amid Cost Pressures
IndiGo has temporarily suspended flights to six international destinations, including Hong Kong and Shanghai, due to weak demand and rising costs. The suspension will last until September 30, with potential for earlier resumption if conditions improve.
Commodities Muted Demand Pressures Tea Prices at Kochi Auctions
Tea prices at Kochi auctions have declined due to muted demand and geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The auction saw a decrease in prices for popular grades, with a notable drop in CTC dust market prices.
Trade India's Spice Exports Decline 6% in FY26 Amid Weak Demand
India's spice exports fell by 6% to $4.43 billion in FY26, driven by reduced demand for chilli and cumin from key markets like China and Bangladesh. Despite the overall decline, some spices like cardamom and tamarind saw significant growth.
Commodities India's Oil Demand Growth Hits Pandemic Low Amid Middle East Conflict
India's oil demand growth is projected to hit its lowest level since the pandemic due to the Middle East conflict. The surge in energy prices and a weaker currency are pressuring the economy, with state refiners struggling to maintain competitive pricing.
Manufacturing Tractor Demand Surges with 11.6% Rise in Registrations
India's tractor registrations increased by 11.6% in May 2026, reaching 81,776 units. This growth is attributed to strong rural cash flows and replacement demand, with Mahindra & Mahindra, TAFE, and International Tractors leading the market.
Logistics India's Air Traffic Decline Impacts Freight Operations
India's domestic air traffic fell by 4.2% in April due to weak demand and rising costs, affecting freight operations. IndiGo increased its market share, while Air India Group saw a decline.
Manufacturing Tesla Cuts Model Y Price in India to Boost Demand
Tesla has reduced the price of its Model Y in India by up to Rs 9 lakh, aiming to boost demand in a market where high prices have limited its appeal. The move positions the Model Y closer to mass-market premium vehicles, potentially widening Tesla's customer base.