Topic
sea
Commodities India's Edible Oil Import Bill Estimated to Rise 9% to ₹1.75 Lakh Crore in 2025-26 Market Year: SEA
India's edible oil import bill is projected to rise 9% to ₹1.75 lakh crore in the 2025-26 marketing year (November-October) due to higher import volumes and rupee depreciation, according to the Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA). Import volumes rose 7% in the first eight months, while weaker monsoon and delayed kharif sowing raise domestic production concerns.
Logistics Freight Rattled by Delays, Ship Shortages and Port Congestion as West Asia Conflict Flares Up
Renewed West Asia conflict has caused severe disruptions on trade routes from India, with ocean freight rates more than doubling to Argentina and surging to West Asia from $400 to $3,500. Ports on India's west coast, particularly Nhava Sheva and Mundra, face congestion and vessel blank sailings. Exporters report container shortages, order cancellations, and mounting detention/demurrage costs, with some pausing bookings for Bahrain and Sydney.
Commodities SEA-led mustard model farm programme boosts yields, profitability in 3 States
The Solvent Extractors' Association of India (SEA) led 'Regenerative Mustard Model Farm' programme achieved yield increases of 20-30% and significant improvements in benefit-cost ratios across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Haryana during the 2025-26 rabi season, demonstrating the potential of sustainable farming practices to boost domestic oilseed production and reduce import dependence.
Commodities India must boost oilseed yields to cut edible oil imports, SEA chief says
India's record oilseed production of 43.06 million tonnes in 2025-26 is overshadowed by 60% import dependence for edible oils. SEA chief Sanjeev Asthana urges yield improvements, a National Oilseeds Mission, and use of cottonseed and rice bran oils to reduce imports to 9.5-10 million tonnes by 2030. Monsoon risks and geopolitical disruptions add uncertainty.
Logistics Shipmanagement Sector Faces New Wave of Consolidation
The shipmanagement sector is experiencing a shift from scale-driven consolidation to a focus on technology and expertise. Industry leaders highlight the need for smarter operations to manage regulatory and technical complexities. This change impacts global shipping lanes and requires strategic adjustments.