Topic
Trade
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 Trade gap seen as by-product of India's development stage, investment needs, energy dependence: Govt to Parliament
India's merchandise trade deficit is a natural by-product of its development stage, investment needs, and energy dependence, according to Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada. The statement to Parliament also highlighted shrimp export rejections totaling Rs 14 crore, rising FDI inflows, and progress under PLI schemes and the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme.
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.
Commodities India Plans to Source Up to Quarter of 2027 LPG Imports From United States, Sources Say
India plans to buy up to a quarter of its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) imports from the United States in 2027, according to three sources. The move would reduce dependence on the Middle East and help secure a trade deal with Washington. State refiners Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum Corp and Hindustan Petroleum are expected to issue tenders within one to two months for US LPG supplies.
Logistics US urged to create publicly backed container line to reduce foreign carrier dependence, report says
The Open Markets Institute report urges the US to create a publicly backed container shipping line to reduce dependence on foreign carriers, which control nearly 80% of global container capacity. The report alleges a 'container cartel' and proposes tighter FMC scrutiny, restored common-carrier protections, and expanded mariner training.
Commodities Crude oil futures fall on Trump’s ‘good talks’ comment on Iran
Crude oil futures declined on Tuesday after US President Donald Trump said the US was engaged in 'good talks' with Iran. October Brent fell 1.08% to $84.94, and September WTI dropped 1.14% to $81.67. Meanwhile, the Caspian Pipeline Consortium resumed oil lifting at its Marine Terminal.
Trade India Finance Ministry Imposes Five-Year Anti-Dumping Duty on Low Ash Met Coke
India's Finance Ministry has imposed an anti-dumping duty on low ash met coke imports, effective for five years from the date of provisional duty imposition. The duty, payable in Indian currency, follows a Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) investigation that found dumped exports causing injury to the domestic industry. The measure is expected to raise costs for steel producers who rely on this high-purity carbon fuel.
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 US Widens Mexican Cartel Crackdown to Tequila Makers and Baby Shoe Company in Largest CJNG Sanctions Package
The Trump administration imposed sanctions on more than 50 Mexican individuals and companies tied to the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), including tequila producers, a baby shoe manufacturer, and logistics firms. Announced by the Treasury Department's OFAC, the action freezes U.S. assets and prohibits business with sanctioned parties, targeting businesses allegedly used for money laundering and drug trafficking.
Trade Tariffs on trial: Small businesses take Trump's latest trade levies back to court
Two groups of small businesses have filed lawsuits challenging the Trump administration's latest tariffs, which impose double-digit levies on imports from 60 trading partners covering 99% of US imports. The lawsuits argue the government failed to justify the measures under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 and that the tariffs are effectively replacing those struck down by the Supreme Court in February.
Supply Chain India and Australia Must Move Decisively to Build Resilient Energy Supply Chains, Experts Urge
A policy dialogue on the India-Australia Energy Security Corridor stressed that critical minerals must be at the heart of the partnership, moving beyond traditional buyer-seller relationships. Experts cautioned against over-reliance on concentrated supply chains and highlighted complementary strengths in mining, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
Trade US Imposes 10% Tariff on India Under Forced Labour Probe; Oil Prices Surge
The US Trade Representative has announced a permanent 10% additional tariff on India and 16 other countries under Section 301 for allowing imports of goods produced with forced labour. The levy, lower than the proposed 12.5%, replaces a temporary duty and is unlikely to have a major impact. Separately, Indian crude basket surged 11% to $103.33 per barrel amid supply disruptions.
Chinese Vape Manufacturers Use Nicotine Analogs to Circumvent US Flavor Bans and FDA Oversight
WIRED reports that Chinese vape manufacturers are circumventing US federal tobacco regulations by using nicotine analogs, little-studied chemicals that mimic nicotine's effects. Despite flavored nicotine vapes being largely illegal, these products are widely sold in the US. Researchers warn of unknown health risks and regulatory gaps that allow these products to evade FDA review.
Trade Assocham: India's exports to UK may reach USD 115 billion by 2030 under trade pact
Assocham has projected that the India-UK trade agreement, effective July 15, 2026, could more than double India's exports to the UK from USD 58 billion in FY2025-26 to USD 115 billion by 2030, while creating 7-10 lakh jobs. The chamber stressed the need for sustained competitiveness in quality, certification, and rules of origin compliance.
Trade New U.S. Tariffs Target Imports From China, Mexico, Canada and 57 Other Economies
The Trump administration replaced its temporary 10% global tariff with a new Section 301 tariff regime covering 60 economies that account for 99.4% of U.S. imports. The duties, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, took effect July 24, 2026, and are based on forced labor investigations. Hundreds of product exemptions and tariff-rate quotas for textiles were also announced.
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 Trump Imposes Fresh Tariffs on 60 Economies Over Forced Labour; India Gets 10% Duty
US President Donald Trump imposed new Section 301 tariffs on imports from 60 economies over forced labour concerns, effective July 24, 2026. India is among 17 economies that will face a lower 10% tariff instead of the proposed 12.5% duty. The action follows USTR investigations launched on March 12, 2026.
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.
Commodities Government restricts low-priced suspension-grade PVC resin imports for six months
The Indian government has restricted imports of low-priced suspension-grade PVC resin for six months by imposing a minimum import price of USD 0.766 per kg. The move, effective immediately, changes the import policy from 'Free' to 'Restricted' for S-PVC under HS code 39041020. Exemptions are granted to export-oriented units (EOUs), SEZs, and units under the Advance Authorisation Scheme, provided the imported inputs are not sold into the domestic tariff area. The policy change follows an anti-dumping investigation by the DGTR that found material injury to domestic producers from dumped imports.
Trade US Section 301 Tariffs Unlikely to Hit India's Exports, Textiles Need Close Watch, Says FIEO Chief
The US announced Section 301 tariffs of 10% and 12.5% on 60 economies on July 24, 2026, with India placed in the lower 10% category. FIEO chief Sahai stated the tariffs are unlikely to impact India's overall exports but noted that textiles need close watch as India was excluded from the textile TRQ exemption granted to some competitors. Products under Section 232 remain unaffected.
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.
Commodities IISR and Spices Board Partner to Boost Spice Startups and Exports via Incubation
The ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) has partnered with the Spices Board through its Agventure Technology Business Incubator (TBI) to support spice startups and export-oriented enterprises. The MoU establishes Agventure TBI as an incubation centre under the ASPIRE scheme, offering research commercialization, technology transfer, and market access.
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 GTRI Questions US 10% Section 301 Tariff on Indian Exports, Says Measure Lacks Credible Evidence
Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) has questioned the US 10% Section 301 tariff on Indian exports, stating it lacks credible evidence of forced labour. India had amended its Foreign Trade Policy in June 2026 to prohibit forced labour imports, reducing the proposed tariff from 12.5%. Around 70% of India's exports to the US will now face MFN duty plus the 10% tariff, while 8% face existing Section 232 duties.
Trade US Imposes 10% Tariffs on India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, UK Over Forced Labour Investigation
The U.S. Trade Representative imposed 10% tariffs on India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the UK, and other nations following a Section 301 investigation into forced labour practices. The move comes as India and the US progress on a bilateral trade agreement.
Trade US Imposes Fresh Tariffs of Up to 12.5% on 60 Economies Over Forced Labour; India Gets Lower 10% Rate
The Trump administration announced new tariffs of 10% and 12.5% on imports from 60 economies under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, targeting countries with inadequate forced labour enforcement. India secured the lower 10% rate following recent policy changes. The tariffs take effect July 3, 2026, replacing temporary global duties.
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.
E-Commerce & Marketplaces Govt opens inventory-based e-commerce to foreign direct investment for exports only
The Indian government, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), has amended the FDI policy to allow inventory-based e-commerce for exports only. This enables Indian manufacturers to use foreign investment to own inventory and sell directly to overseas buyers, while maintaining the existing prohibition on inventory-based B2C e-commerce domestically. The policy change aims to boost exports without affecting small domestic retailers.
Logistics Ports and Pipelines Reshape Middle East Trade Beyond the Strait of Hormuz
DP World has confirmed plans for two new terminals on the UAE's east coast, outside the Strait of Hormuz, adding a combined 2.5 million TEU of container capacity and 5.3 million tonnes of general cargo. Rival Gulftainer is expanding Khorfakkan terminal. Meanwhile, pipeline projects accelerate to bypass Hormuz for crude oil, though refined products remain exposed.
Commodities India and Myanmar Signal Closer Rare Earth Mining Ties Amid China Dominance
India and Myanmar are strengthening cooperation in rare earth mining, with Indian delegations visiting and the Indian ambassador highlighting win-win opportunities. Nearly half the world's heavy rare earth supply originates from Myanmar's Kachin state, currently shipped to China for processing. Indian firms including IREL, NTPC Mining, and Himadri Specialty are involved.
Commodities India's Surging Refined Product Exports Ease Asia Fuel Crisis, Says Russell
India's exports of light and middle distillates are expected to reach 1.55 million barrels per day in July, the second-highest level in Kpler records since 2017, easing Asia's fuel crisis. The surge is driven by soaring product premiums after the breakdown of the US-Iran ceasefire, with Brent crude rising 34% from its post-deal low. Other exporters like Oman and Taiwan are also boosting output, but Asia's imports remain 18% below pre-conflict levels, indicating continued tightness.
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.
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 Generic Drug Tariffs Explained: What It Means for Indian Pharma Before the 200% Storm
US President Donald Trump unveiled a phased tariff plan for imported generic medicines: duty-free for two years from August 1, then 100% for one year, followed by 200%. For Indian drugmakers, the plan offers temporary relief but signals a long-term shift. India's pharma exports to the US account for 34% of total pharma exports, worth $30.47 billion in 2024-25. Leading companies with US manufacturing operations may have greater flexibility.
Trade USTR Hints at 'Action Soon' as 10% Tariff Expiry Looms, Canada Hit With 50% Duty
USTR Jamieson Greer said 'some action soon' is coming days before the current 10% additional tariff on all countries expires Friday. The Trump administration has imposed 50% tariffs on $20 billion of Canadian goods via Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 and proposed Section 301 tariffs of up to 12.5% on 60 economies for forced labour issues.
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 Announces 0% Tariff on Generic Medicines for Two Years; 200% Thereafter
President Trump has announced a 0% tariff on generic medicines for two years, followed by a 200% tariff thereafter, according to Business-Today. The report, dated July 22, 2026, provides no further details on scope, effective date, or enforcement bodies.
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.
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 India Targets 10% Share in Global Merchandise Exports by 2047: WTO Report
India aims to increase its share of global merchandise exports from about 1.8% in 2024 to around 10% by 2047, according to a WTO report. The report highlights export promotion under the Viksit Bharat vision, India's stance on WTO reform, and recent customs duty changes eliminating the highest rates.
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.
Logistics New Transhipment Vessel Wontanara Delivered to Speed Guinea-China Iron Ore Flows
CSSC Chengxi Shipyard has delivered the Wontanara, the first of five transhipment vessels designed to move iron ore from Rio Tinto's Simandou project in Guinea to China. The self-unloader can discharge 12,000 tonnes per hour and, once all five are operating, can load a 200,000 dwt bulk carrier within 24 hours, reducing anchorage waiting times.
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 Trump Imposes New 50% Tariffs on $20 Billion in Canadian Imports Using Section 338
President Trump on Monday announced new 50% tariffs on roughly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports using Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930. The duties, effective in 30 days, target Canadian goods after allegations of discrimination against U.S. autos, dairy, and alcohol. Exemptions include energy, critical minerals, and products already covered under Section 232.
Trade Trump Signs Executive Order Imposing 50% Tariff on Canadian Imports Effective August 19
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a 50% tariff on a wide range of Canadian imports, effective 19 August, in retaliation for what he called 'unequal treatment' of US cars, dairy and alcohol. The tariffs cover consumer items like wine and hockey sticks and industrial goods such as commercial cement, but exclude energy, potash, critical minerals and fish.
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.
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.
Commodities Hormuz Disruptions: India's Russian Oil Imports Near Record in July Despite No US Sanctions Waiver
India's crude oil imports from Russia stayed near record highs in July, averaging 2.45 million barrels per day, despite the US not granting a sanctions waiver. UAE and Saudi Arabia are the second and third largest suppliers, while Venezuela entered the top five. Industry experts highlight India's flexible sourcing strategy amid the Hormuz disruption.
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.
Sugar Trade Body AISTA Dismisses Shortage Concerns Amid 15% Price Surge in Less Than a Month
The All-India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA) dismissed reports of sugar shortages in India, attributing a 15% rise in ex-factory prices over the past month to unwarranted panic. The trade body cited adequate stocks as confirmed by ISMA and NFCSF, urged members to maintain supply pipelines, and noted expectations of favourable weather for the upcoming 2026-27 season.
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 IVPA Seeks Policy Review as Refined Edible Oil Imports from Nepal Breach 8 Lakh Tonnes
The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) has urged the government to review trade policy after duty-free refined edible oil imports from Nepal under SAFTA surged from 47,295 tonnes in 2023 to over 8.04 lakh tonnes in 2025 – a 17-fold increase. IVPA warns that the trend is shifting refining activity outside India, affecting domestic capacity utilisation, investment, and farmer welfare, and calls for stricter Rules of Origin verification under CAROTAR.
Trade India’s edible oil industry flags 17-fold surge in Nepal imports, seeks policy review
India’s edible oil imports from Nepal have surged more than 17-fold in two years, from 47,295 tonnes in 2023 to over 804,000 tonnes in 2025, according to the Indian Vegetable Oil Producers' Association (IVPA). The industry body is urging a comprehensive policy review under SAFTA, citing duty-free imports that are shifting refining activity outside India and causing an estimated customs revenue loss of ₹2,000–2,500 crore. IVPA President Sudhakar Desai called for stronger verification of Rules of Origin and a review of tariff structures to safeguard domestic value addition.