Topic
Export Documentation
Trade India-China Border Trade Via Lipulekh Resumes Aug 1; China Permits 20 Traders
India-China border trade via Lipulekh Pass will restart on August 1, 2026. The Chinese administration in Tibet has granted permission for only 20 Indian traders to visit Purang (Taklakot) in the first phase to assess preparedness and inspect existing stock. The trade, which has centuries-old roots, was suspended in 2019 due to COVID-19 and is vital to the economy of the border region.
Trade Wove Launches Free Tariff Change Tool for Forwarders, Automates AI Agent Updates
Freight forwarders and customs brokers can now access a free tariff calculator from Wove that automates the tracking of Harmonized Tariff Schedule changes. Using AI agents, the platform can process hundreds of pages of tariff updates from the Federal Register in under an hour, addressing the rapid pace of trade policy shifts.
Trade Shein swings to a quarterly loss after Donald Trump’s trade rules slow US sales
Fast-fashion e-commerce giant Shein reported a $99m net loss for Q1 2026, compared with a $395m profit a year earlier, citing the removal of the US de minimis import duty exemption on small packages. The company also flagged headwinds from US-China tariff uncertainty and the Iran war, and plans to raise prices in the US market. Shein received approval from the China Securities Regulatory Commission for a Hong Kong IPO on 10 July 2026.
Trade Global wheat rally revives India's export prospects as government allows 5 million tonnes of exports
India has authorised the export of 5 million tonnes of wheat after a four-year ban, according to the Economic Times. The decision follows a global wheat rally and a domestic surplus of 57.8 million tonnes in the central pool. The government had previously allowed an additional 2.5 million tonnes in April 2026.
Trade India Reiterates Commitment to Open, Rules-Based Multilateral Trading System at WTO Review
India has reiterated its commitment to an open, inclusive, transparent and rules-based multilateral trading system during the final session of its Eighth Trade Policy Review at the WTO in Geneva. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal said WTO reform should remain development-oriented and preserve policy space for developing countries, while highlighting India's tariff reforms, customs simplification measures and FTA strategy.
Trade Value Added Coffee Exports from India Rise 46% to $686 Million in 2025-26
India's exports of value added coffee rose by 46.58% over three years, reaching $686 million in 2025-26, according to Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada. Overall coffee exports hit $2.083 billion, with Karnataka as the largest exporter and producer. The Coffee Board promotes freeze-dried instant coffee under the 'Coffees of India' logo.
Trade India, Israel Conclude Second Round of Free Trade Agreement Negotiations in New Delhi
The second round of negotiations for the India-Israel free trade agreement concluded in New Delhi from July 20-23, 2025. Officials discussed trade in goods and services, rules of origin, technical barriers, intellectual property rights, and customs procedures. Total bilateral merchandise trade was USD 3.93 billion in 2025-26, according to an official statement from India's Commerce Ministry.
Trade EU Grants Dynagas 12-Month Reprieve in Latest Russia Sanctions Package
The European Union has added 41 vessels to its shadow fleet blacklist while granting Greek shipowner Dynagas a temporary 12-month reprieve from restrictions on carrying Russian LNG to non-EU countries. The exemption limits volumes to 2025 levels and is part of the EU's 21st sanctions package.
Trade Canadian PM Mark Carney Rules Out Retaliatory Tariffs Before August 19 Deadline
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Canada will not impose retaliatory tariffs before the August 19 deadline set by US President Donald Trump's proposed 50% tariffs. He described advance retaliation as 'counterproductive' and emphasized ongoing negotiations. The tariffs target a broad range of Canadian exports, with an estimated impact of C$28 billion annually.
Trade US Imposes New Tariffs on 60 Trading Partners Over Forced Labour Claims
The United States is imposing new tariffs on imports from approximately 60 trading partners over allegations of inadequate action against forced labour. Duties range from 10% to 12.5% and target key economies including the UK, EU, Canada, Japan, and India, effective Friday. Canada faces additional 50% duties on some goods. The move escalates the global trade war reignited by President Donald Trump.
Trade WTO Nations Query India’s PLI, QCO, Import Substitution; New Delhi Defends Public Policy Objectives
At India's Trade Policy Review, 44 WTO members submitted over 1,090 written questions, with more than 700 answered before the meeting. Concerns focused on predictability and transparency of India's PLI schemes, QCOs, import substitution policies, and other trade measures. New Delhi defended its policies as legitimate public policy objectives.
Trade US-India trade deal could be signed in 3-4 months, US official says at ASEAN meet
A US official speaking at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting in Manila said the US-India trade deal could be signed in 3-4 months, with the Section 301 investigations being the final outstanding step. The official stated the deal is essentially complete. Separately, President Trump announced a phased tariff on generic drug imports, starting tariff-free for two years, then escalating to 100% and 200%, directly affecting India's $9.7 billion pharmaceutical exports to the US.
Trade Trump's Phased Tariff Plan on Generic Drugs: 0% for Two Years, Then Up to 200%
President Donald Trump announced a phased tariff plan on imported generic medicines, with zero tariffs for two years from August 1, 2026, followed by 100% for one year and 200% thereafter. The move targets India, which exported $9.7 billion in pharmaceuticals to the US in 2025, accounting for 38% of its total pharma exports. Indian generics supply 47% of US prescriptions and saved the US healthcare system $219 billion in 2022.
Trade Trump Prepares New Tariff Wave as India Trade Deal Stalls, Threatening Market Access
President Donald Trump is set to impose new tariffs on up to 60 countries, including India, as a temporary 10% tariff expires Friday. A bilateral trade deal with India remains deadlocked over market access and tariff concessions, while Canada faces a 50% tariff unless it removes alleged barriers.
Trade India's Growth Strong but Trade Barriers Threaten 2047 Goal: WTO Trade Policy Review
A WTO Trade Policy Review report highlights India's strong economic growth as the fastest-growing G20 economy, with GDP projected at 6.8-7.2% for FY2027-28. However, it warns that structural challenges including high trade costs, tariffs, and regulatory complexity must be addressed for India to achieve its Viksit Bharat vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. The report notes India's record exports of $863.1 billion in 2025-26 and a strategic shift towards free trade agreements.
Trade Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on Canadian Goods Retaliating for US Farmer Treatment
US President Donald Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on a wide range of Canadian imports, citing unequal treatment of US farmers, cars, dairy, and alcohol. The White House confirmed the duties will take effect in 30 days, marking a major escalation in trade tensions.
Trade WTO Urges India to Cut Reliance on Trade-Restrictive Measures, New Delhi Flags Global Non-Tariff Barriers
The WTO's 8th Trade Policy Review for India urges New Delhi to reduce reliance on high tariffs, import/export controls, and state trading enterprises. India counters by flagging rising non-tariff measures by trading partners that constrain its market access. The TPR meeting is scheduled for July 21 and 23.
Trade Canada Vows to Protect Workers After Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on Select Canadian Goods, Calling It a 'Direct Violation' of CUSMA
Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned President Trump's new 50% tariffs on select Canadian goods as a direct violation of CUSMA. The tariffs target motor vehicles, dairy, and alcoholic beverages, set to take effect in 30 days, with exemptions for energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals. Canada pledges to support workers and remains open to negotiations.
Trade New registries emerge for shadow fleet as Russia becomes dominant flag state
Russia has become the leading flag state for the sanctioned shadow fleet, with over 213 tankers now flying its flag, according to maritime risk firm Windward. New registries in Sierra Leone, Equatorial Guinea, and Oman are attracting sanctioned vessels as Western enforcement intensifies. Equatorial Guinea's registry shows governance gaps, while Cameroon remains the second-largest flag despite expelling vessels.
Trade Uttarakhand Exports First Frozen French Fries Consignment to Iraq via APEDA
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first export of 24 metric tonnes of frozen french fries from Uttarakhand to Iraq. The consignment, shipped by Virun Global Trade Pvt. Ltd. from Kashipur, marks a milestone for value-added agricultural exports from the landlocked state. APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev noted that logistics costs affect competitiveness and that APEDA is working with the Uttarakhand government on transport assistance under the State Agri-Export Policy.
Trade UK Trade Deal: India Invites Applications for Car Import Quota Under CETA
India's DGFT has invited applications for the Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) for importing 0.378 million conventional-engine passenger cars from the UK at a concessional 10% customs duty, down from 110%, under the India-UK CETA. The application window runs from July 21 to August 4, 2026.
Trade India Opens Applications for Car Import Quota Under India-UK Trade Pact
India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade has invited applications for importing cars from the UK under quota-based duty concessions of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The agreement, effective July 15, allows 3.78 lakh passenger car imports over 15 years with tariffs reduced from up to 110% to 10%, with specific quotas per engine capacity. Applications are open from July 21 to August 4, 2026.
Trade India Deposits Instrument of Acceptance for WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies on 20 July 2026
India deposited its Instrument of Acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies on 20 July 2026, becoming a party to the pact. The agreement, adopted in June 2022 and effective from September 2025, prohibits subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and for overfished stocks. It disciplines harmful subsidies for industrial fishing fleets, benefiting small-scale fishers in India, while aquaculture and inland fisheries remain outside its scope.
Trade US-Mexico Cross-Border Trade Hits $87.2B in May, Led by Laredo Port Surge
Mexico remained the largest US trading partner in May 2026, with two-way trade of $87.23 billion, a 17.06% increase from May 2025. Port Laredo was the busiest gateway, handling $36.33 billion in trade. Germany's Döhler Group invested $64 million in a new Mexico plant to support exports.
Trade Afghanistan Chamber Proposes Deeper Trade Ties with India, Easier Business Access
The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) has proposed deeper economic cooperation with India, focusing on agricultural exports, mining, and easier business visas, during a meeting between ACCI Chairman Sayed Karim Hashemi and Indian Ambassador Yatin Patel in Kabul. Bilateral trade stood at USD 907.85 million in 2025-26, while Afghanistan's transit trade with Pakistan has sharply declined.
Trade Downstream aluminium industry urges duty cut on primary aluminium and scrap to restore competitiveness
Downstream aluminium manufacturers have urged the Centre to reduce customs duty on primary aluminium and aluminium scrap, stating the current duty structure is hurting MSME competitiveness. In a joint representation to the mines ministry, industry bodies cited an effective import duty of 8.25% on primary aluminium and 2.75% on scrap, which has compressed margins by up to 70% and pushed input costs up 20-35% in the last three months. The associations also flagged the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism as a future threat.
Trade Textile sector to sew loose ends as FTAs kick in
The operationalisation of the UK-India free trade agreement eliminates tariffs up to 12% on textile exports, bringing parity with competitors. Industry body Indian Texpreneurs Federation expects exports to double to a 12% share in 4-5 years, but experts caution about structural challenges.
Trade India-UK CETA takes effect: First zero-duty Indian coffee, jewellery consignments reach UK shores
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) took effect on July 15, 2026. The first zero-duty consignments of Indian coffee and jewellery have already arrived in the UK, displayed at a celebratory event at the High Commission of India in London. The agreement covers 99% of India's export tariff lines to the UK, with long-term bilateral trade expected to increase by £25.5 billion annually.
Trade India to Release Export-Oriented Fisheries Policy Focusing on Inland Fishery
India's Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh announced an upcoming export-oriented fisheries policy emphasizing inland fishery, which currently accounts for only 2% of India's fishery exports. He stated that fishery exports jumped by Rs 10,000 crore to over Rs 72,000 crore in 2025-26, crediting free trade agreements. The minister also highlighted transport bottlenecks and directed ICAR to study drone use for connecting inland fisheries to export hubs.
Trade Piyush Goyal Holds Key Meetings with EU, Belgian Leaders to Deepen Trade, Clean Energy, Agriculture Cooperation
India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held meetings with European Commissioners Christophe Hansen and Wopke Hoekstra, and Belgian Deputy PM David Clarinval to advance cooperation in trade, clean energy, and agriculture. The discussions built on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement and included plans for CEO-level talks and participation in the India-EU Trade and Technology Council.
Trade India raises diesel and jet fuel export taxes as US-Iran tensions tighten oil markets
India increased taxes on diesel and jet fuel exports, citing the collapse of the US-Iran interim peace deal and global fuel market tightness. The diesel levy rose to ₹15.5 a litre from ₹8.50, while gasoline taxes were cut. The fortnightly adjustment mechanism aims to balance local availability with export profitability.
Trade 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.
Trade UK-India trade pact 'gold standard' and powerful message for rules-based order: UK envoy Lindy Cameron
The UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) entered into force, with British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron calling it a 'gold standard' deal that sends a powerful message for rules-based order. The pact secures zero-duty market access for nearly 99% of India's exports to the UK and includes significant tariff reductions on Scotch whisky and premium UK-built cars.
Trade Oil, LNG, Fertilisers and Diamonds at Risk from Iran's Wider Blockade Threat Beyond Strait of Hormuz
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned it could expand efforts to disrupt regional trade beyond the Strait of Hormuz, threatening oil, LNG, fertilisers and diamond supply chains. The Strait carries nearly 20 million barrels per day of crude and petroleum products, and over 90% of Qatar and UAE's LNG exports. Diamonds routed through India and UAE for cutting and polishing face disruption, along with petrochemicals and food shipments.
Trade India, China Cut US Treasuries, Boost Gold Reserves in De-Dollarization Push
India and China are reducing exposure to US Treasuries and increasing gold reserves, according to a Business Today report citing Federal Reserve and RBI data. India's Treasury holdings fell 22.5% year-on-year to $181 billion, while gold reserves rose 33.9% to 881 tonnes. China's Treasury holdings dropped 12.44% to $651.1 billion. Central banks globally bought an average 1,000 tonnes of gold annually over the past four years, double the previous decade's average.
Trade China's Exports Surge 27% in June on AI Boom, Trade Surplus Widens to $125.6 Billion
China's exports surged 27% year-on-year in June, far exceeding expectations, driven by booming AI-related product and semiconductor demand, according to customs data. Imports rose 36%, partly due to higher costs from the Iran conflict, widening the trade surplus to $125.6 billion from $105.4 billion in May.
Trade 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.
Trade US and Iran Trade Fire as Tensions Rise Over Strait of Hormuz
The US launched a new attack on Iran on Sunday evening, killing one person, according to Iranian state media. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) responded by striking US military bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of conflicting claims—Iran says it is closed, the US insists it is open. Oil prices jumped 4.3% in Asia on Monday, with Brent crude at $79.26 a barrel.
Trade India-UK trade pact: CBIC issues guidelines on implementation of self-certification of origin declarations
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued guidelines for implementing self-certification of origin declarations under the India-UK trade agreement. The framework replaces conventional certificates with self-declarations, requiring an authentication process by customs authorities of both countries. Preferential duty treatment is granted only after authenticity is established, and each declaration applies to a single shipment.
Trade NITI Aayog Proposes Pharma Chapter in Future FTAs, Urges India to Move Up Value Chain
NITI Aayog’s eighth Trade Watch Quarterly report proposes a dedicated pharmaceuticals chapter in future free trade agreements to help India move up the value chain. The report calls for greater regulatory transparency, stronger industry-academia tech transfer, and shared environmental compliance infrastructure. It highlights India's 65% dependence on China for critical APIs and notes India supplies 50% of Africa's, 40% of the US', and 25% of the UK's generic drug needs.
Trade India-Latin America Trade to Reach USD 100 Billion by 2030 from USD 50 Billion: Uruguay Ambassador
Uruguay Ambassador Alberto Antonio Guani Amarilla announced that trade between India and Latin America is expected to double to USD 100 billion by 2030 from the current USD 50 billion. Speaking at the LAC FIRST conference in New Delhi, he highlighted the need to expand the India-Mercosur Preferential Trade Agreement from 450 to 3,000 products as a step toward a free trade agreement, with key sectors including minerals, agro-industries, and pharmaceuticals.
Trade COMA Urges Kerala to Regulate Coconut Trade to Curb Illegal Transactions
The Cochin Oil Merchants’ Association (COMA) has called on the Kerala government to introduce a regulatory framework for the trade and movement of coconuts, copra and coconut oil, citing large-scale unrecorded and clandestine transactions. The association recommends a market cess, trader registration, electronic documentation for bulk transport and digital tracking of inter-state movement to curb tax evasion and safeguard the state's coconut economy.
Trade Russia and India Work on Increasing Bilateral Trade Volumes, Kremlin Spokesman Says
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Russia and India are actively working to increase bilateral trade volumes, noting a steady upward trend. The two countries have set a target of $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030, established during President Vladimir Putin's visit to India in December 2025. Peskov praised India's economic growth and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Trade Baroness Mone Among Individuals Sued to Recover PPE Medpro Millions
Baroness Michelle Mone and her husband Doug Barrowman are among individuals being sued by joint liquidators from Interpath Advisory to recover millions owed to the UK government by PPE Medpro. The government won a £122m plus interest judgment last year over breached contracts for sterile surgical gowns. The company was liquidated in December 2025 with less than £1m in assets, prompting legal action against six individuals and five companies.
Trade Exporters Urge Indian Government Not to Reimpose Onion Export Curbs Amid Price Rise
The Horticulture Produce Exporters Association (HPEA) has urged the Indian government not to impose fresh export restrictions on onions, warning that such curbs could undermine markets regained after a previous ban. Wholesale prices have risen over 42% at Lasalgaon APMC, while exports surged 40% to around 1.5 million tonnes in 2025-26.
Trade Indian Consumer Giants Boost Africa Investments as Beverages and Hair Care Drive Growth
Indian consumer goods companies are significantly increasing investments in Africa, shifting from market entry to large-scale operations. Beverages, hair care, and personal care sectors are driving robust growth, with companies like Dabur, Marico, GCPL, and Varun Beverages reporting strong earnings. Executives cite young demographics, urbanisation, and underpenetrated markets as long-term growth drivers.
Trade North Korean $1.5B Crypto Heist Traced to Iran Central Bank Wallets
The $1.5 billion crypto heist from Bybit, operated by North Korean hackers, has been traced through blockchain analysis to wallets linked to Iran's central bank, with funds moving through CoinEx exchange. The case underscores growing challenges in enforcing sanctions as cryptocurrency becomes integrated into Iran's financial networks.
Trade APEDA Facilitates First Biscuit Export from Varanasi to Oman Under India-Oman CEPA
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has facilitated the first-ever biscuit export from Varanasi to Oman under the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The 40-tonne shipment, manufactured by Shree Tirupati Balajee Industries, marks a milestone for processed food exports from eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Trade Political Will Driving India-US Trade Deal, Says Former Diplomat Vidya Bhushan Soni
Former diplomat Vidya Bhushan Soni stated that strong political will is driving the India-US trade negotiating process, with the February 2025 agreement serving as a turning point. The statement came as India and the United States concluded a two-day ministerial-level round on the Bilateral Trade Agreement, aiming for an interim pact ahead of a US tariff deadline. USTR Jamieson Greer and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal both expressed optimism about the relationship.
Trade No Deal with US Without Tariff Advantage Framework, Says Piyush Goyal at UK-India Week 2026
India will not sign the proposed bilateral trade agreement with the United States until a framework guaranteeing a comparative tariff advantage for Indian exports is finalised, according to Union commerce minister Piyush Goyal. Speaking at UK-India Week 2026, Goyal stated that India and the US have reviewed progress on an interim trade pact covering market access, digital trade and supply chains. Both countries are working to conclude an agreement before the July 24 deadline for the expiry of Washington's temporary 10 per cent tariff regime.
Trade 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.
Trade Corporate India Faces Lower Profit Hit as US-Iran Truce Holds, Crisil Says
Crisil Ratings now expects a 100-basis-point decline in operating margins for corporate India in fiscal 2027, halving its earlier estimate of 200 bps, following the US-Iran ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Only 10 of 34 sectors are seen vulnerable, down from 22. Sectors like airlines and ceramics remain under pressure, while oil marketing companies and fertiliser makers stand to benefit.
Trade India-UK FTA Must Drive Transformational Growth, Not Just Higher Trade: Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal called on Indian and British businesses to pursue transformational growth beyond incremental gains from the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, effective July 15. He highlighted the Double Contribution Convention's benefits for temporary workers and criticised global rating agencies for unfair assessments of India.
Trade Piyush Goyal Urges Businesses to 'Seize the Moment' as India-UK Trade Pact Unlocks 'Floodgates'
Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, during a three-day visit to the UK, said the recently signed Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will unlock 'floodgates' for business. He was accompanied by the largest-ever Indian business delegation of nearly 170 representatives. On US bilateral talks, Goyal noted broad agreement except on India's comparative advantage over ASEAN competitors.
Trade Trump Threatens 100% Tariff on European Digital Services Taxes on Truth Social
US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a 100% import tariff on any European country that introduces a digital services tax on American technology giants. The warning, posted on Truth Social, targets nations planning new levies and would supersede existing bilateral trade agreements. The UK's existing 2% Digital Services Tax, which raised over £800 million in 2024-25, may be affected, though its precise implications remain unclear.
Trade Global rating agencies have been unfair to India, says Piyush Goyal; discusses trade, economic growth with industry leaders in UK
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, on a UK visit, told industry leaders that global rating agencies Fitch, Moody's and S&P have been unfair to India, failing to recognize its growth and fundamentals. He called for ramping up exports to the UK and highlighted the upcoming India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) effective July 15. Goyal also praised CareEdge for objective ratings and noted 22 country ratings were revised to align with CareEdge's findings.
Trade Make use of FTAs, other schemes to boost shipments, government tells businesses
The Indian government has asked businesses to fully utilize free trade agreements and other schemes under the Export Promotion Mission. Commerce minister Piyush Goyal met export promotion councils to review progress towards export targets, with a focus on the upcoming India-UK CEPA and the India-EU deal. Concerns remain over capacity constraints in the textile sector and over-reliance on interest subsidy.
Trade Afghanistan likely to boost direct Basmati rice imports from India amid Pakistan tensions
Indian and Afghan traders will meet next month to expand direct Basmati rice trade after preliminary discussions facilitated by the PHD Chamber of Commerce. Afghanistan, which consumes 0.5 million tonnes of Basmati annually, is diversifying away from traditional Pakistani supplies due to bilateral tensions. Direct imports from India via Iran's Bandar Abbas port are under consideration, though diplomatic recognition issues remain a hurdle.
Trade How India managed the Strait of Hormuz crisis without disrupting household energy supplies
India successfully managed the Strait of Hormuz crisis triggered by a US-Israel strike on Iran on February 28, avoiding disruption to household energy supplies. The response involved a rapid LPG Control Order, a surge in domestic LPG production from 35,000 to 54,000 tonnes/day, and diplomatic efforts to secure passage. The crisis was cushioned by a decade of infrastructure investments including doubling LPG import terminals to 22 and expanding refinery capacity to 258 million tonnes per annum.
Trade Superplum plans export of mangoes and lychees to global markets, says founder
Superplum, an Indian fresh produce brand and agtech company, plans to export mangoes and lychees to international markets, according to founder and CEO Shobit Gupta. The company aims to increase India's 0.4% share in global mango trade and capitalise on its position as the world's second-largest lychee producer. Despite challenges with exports to Japan, Superplum sees opportunity in demonstrating the quality of Indian fruits abroad.