THE COMMERCE MINISTRY
Apollo Micro Systems shares jump 23% in 2 days after securing arms manufacturing licence
Apollo Micro Systems shares surged after receiving a crucial arms manufacturing licence from the Indian government. This lifetime licence allows the company to produce a wide range of defence systems. The approval positions Apollo Micro Systems for significant growth in both domestic and export markets. The company plans a phased expansion to ensure robust manufacturing capabilities and quality control.
Finance ministry may review MOOWR benefits for battery storage imports
The Finance Ministry is set to discuss customs warehousing benefits for imported battery storage systems. Industry groups have raised concerns about the MOOWR scheme creating an uneven playing field. Consultations with power and renewable energy ministries are planned. The government is examining potential misuse and policy gaps. A decision will align with India's energy security goals.
Govt strengthens DGFT Norms Committees to speed up export authorisations, cut delays
New reforms aim to speed up approvals for exporters. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has enhanced Norms Committees operations. This includes fixed meetings and clearing old applications. More technical experts have joined the committees. These changes are expected to cut costs and speed up processes for businesses.
Govt recognised over 55,200 startups in FY26
India has recognised more than 55,200 startups in FY26, a 51.6% rise over last year, while the direct jobs created by them increased 36.1%, the “highest” in a single year since the launch of the Startup India initiative in 2016, the government said on Friday.
Starlink unable to get signal for India liftoff; faces FDI hurdles amid security concerns
Starlink's plan for satellite services in India is stalled. The government is reviewing Elon Musk's company's investment proposal carefully. National security concerns are a major hurdle. Geopolitical events have heightened these worries. The company awaits crucial security clearance. Officials will discuss the proposal soon. India prioritizes national security in satellite communications.
India explores FTA full use with Norway, sets up fast-track investment system with Austria
India and Norway are enhancing cooperation in energy, maritime, and biotech sectors. Norway sees growing investment interest in India. Meanwhile, India and Austria have launched a Fast-Track Mechanism to facilitate investments and resolve issues. This initiative aims to expand bilateral trade and leverage industrial complementarities. Both nations are prioritizing sustainable development and green technologies for future collaboration.
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West Asia crisis: Govt expands export insurance scheme
India's government has expanded its RELIEF scheme to cover Jordan and Egypt. This move offers higher insurance to exporters facing disruptions from the West Asia crisis. The scheme aims to strengthen export resilience and sustain trade flows. Exporters obtaining new policies after March 16, 2026, are eligible. Reforms also target faster approvals for duty-free imports under the Advance Authorisation Scheme.
Strongly urge early restoration of freedom of navigation through Strait of Hormuz: India
India has called the targeting of commercial shipping in the West Asia conflict “deplorable” and urged the immediate restoration of safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, citing concerns over energy security and global trade.
Centre forms nodal body to coordinate, develop AI governance norms
The Centre on Thursday announced the formation of the AI Governance and Economic Group (AIGEG) to lead the country's national AI governance strategy. Set to serve as a high-level inter-ministerial body, it will coordinate the development of AI policy across central ministries and institutions.
Govt notifies India’s first chip fab plant: Rs 91,000 cr Tata Semicon plant
India's first chip fabrication plant SEZ is notified in Dholera, Gujarat. Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing Private Limited will invest Rs 91,000 crore. This project aims to boost domestic value chains and create jobs. Other semiconductor and electronics component SEZ proposals have also received approvals. These include plans by Micron Semiconductor Technology India Ltd, Kaynes Semicon Ltd, and CG Semi Ltd.
Lulu Group heads to Ladakh to export 1500 MT Ladakhi apricots across foreign markets
Ladakh is set to export a significant amount of its famed apricots this season. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with Lulu International to export over 1000 metric tons of apricots. This initiative aims to boost farmer income and promote Ladakhi produce globally. Plans are also underway for an e-commerce portal to provide direct market access.
Electronics imports cross USD 100 billion in 2025-26: Commerce Ministry
India's electronics imports surged past 100 billion US dollars in 2025-26. This marks a significant increase from the previous fiscal year. Despite a manufacturing push, the country remains reliant on imported components. Electronics exports also saw growth, driven by smartphone shipments, but imports continue to outpace them.
US Sec 301 probe: India rejects allegations, requests for terminations of both investigations
India has strongly rejected US allegations of excess structural capacity and production, asserting the USTR's investigation lacks a "cogent rationale." New Delhi has requested a negative determination and termination of the probe, emphasizing that trade concerns should be addressed through bilateral negotiations. India also denies allegations regarding forced labor, seeking termination of that investigation as well.
India achieves record exports of USD 860 billion in 2025-26: Piyush Goyal
India has set a new export record, reaching $860 billion in shipments for the fiscal year 2025-26. This achievement surpasses the previous year's $825 billion. The nation's exports demonstrate resilience against global challenges. Nine new trade agreements are expected to boost this growth further, opening new markets and opportunities across various sectors.
India‘s textile and apparel exports degrow by -2.22% in FY 26: Govt Data
Indian textile and apparel exports saw a decline in fiscal year 26. Exports in March also registered a year-on-year drop. This comes after the US imposed high tariffs. Meanwhile, India's import of raw cotton increased significantly. This surge followed a period of eased import duties.
China surpasses US as India's largest trading partner in FY26; trade gap swells to USD 112.16 bn
India's trade with China reached USD 151.1 billion in 2025-26, making it the largest partner. The trade deficit with China widened significantly. The US was previously the top partner for four years. India's exports to China saw substantial growth, while imports also increased. Trade with the US showed marginal export growth and increased imports, leading to a reduced trade surplus.
Attacks on merchant shipping completely unacceptable, says Jaishankar amid West Asia situation
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has strongly backed safe and unimpeded maritime shipping. He stated that attacks on merchant vessels are unacceptable. This comes as India engages diplomatically on the West Asia conflict. The minister also highlighted India's commitment to energy market supply chain resilience. India is closely monitoring developments in the region.
Govt notifies special economic zone for Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing at Dholera
The government on Wednesday said it has notified a special economic zone to be set up by Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing for electronic hardware and software, including IT/ITeS, at Dholera in Gujarat.
For FDI, E-comm exports must be in separate cart
India is considering allowing FDI in inventory-based e-commerce exclusively for exports. This move aims to boost outbound shipments without affecting domestic retailers. Strict safeguards, including physical segregation of warehouses, are being evaluated to ensure export-bound goods are not sold locally.
Centre reshuffles top bureaucracy; appoints 48 officers as joint secretaries
The Centre has announced a significant bureaucratic reshuffle. Forty-eight civil servants have been appointed to joint secretary or equivalent positions. Hardik Satishchandra Shah is now private secretary to the prime minister at the joint secretary level. Several other officers have been assigned key roles across various government departments, including agriculture, civil aviation, commerce, defence, and home affairs.
India, Saudi Arabia discuss strengthening trade relations, enhancing energy supply
India and Saudi Arabia are boosting trade ties. Discussions focused on enhancing energy supply cooperation. Both nations are pushing for progress on a trade agreement with Gulf Cooperation Council countries. This comes as regional conflicts impact supply chains. India is also supporting its exports to Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region.
Piyush Goyal holds talks with Saudi Arabia trade minister on stronger supply chains
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met with Saudi Arabia's Trade Minister Majid bin Abdullah Al Qassabi. They discussed strengthening supply chains affected by the West Asia crisis. Both ministers expressed optimism for early progress on the India-GCC Free Trade Agreement negotiations. The discussions also focused on ensuring smooth trade flows and recovering from disruptions.
Government plans weekly system to track EXIM trends
The govt will establish a system to monitor export-import trends and industry stress weekly. This comes as global tensions and rising costs threaten domestic businesses. The commerce ministry is working to streamline procedures for cargo handling. Discussions focused on challenges faced by exporters, including packaging material costs and shipping disruptions. Industries like apparel, leather, and medical devices are particularly vulnerable.
India reiterates support to GCC on supply chain, food security
India has reaffirmed its commitment to assist the Gulf Cooperation Council with food supply chain issues. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held virtual discussions with GCC leaders. The focus was on strengthening logistics and exploring alternative trade routes. India also expressed hope for an enduring ceasefire in the region, crucial for its energy security.
West Asia crisis: Piyush Goyal meets Kuwait, UAE to restore trade, energy flows
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met with leaders from Kuwait and the UAE. Discussions focused on restoring trade and energy supplies disrupted by recent events. India offered assistance to Kuwait for food security. Both sides emphasized dialogue and diplomacy. Efforts are underway to ensure smooth trade flows and continuity of essential supplies.
West Asia conflict: Govt to setup weekly monitoring mechanism to track exim trends
The government is establishing a weekly system to monitor export-import trends and industry stress. This move addresses concerns over supply chain disruptions and rising costs impacting sectors like apparel and medical devices. Customs will streamline hazardous cargo procedures. The initiative aims to boost transparency and efficiency in shipping and logistics, ensuring smoother trade operations.
West Asia crisis: Government plans weekly monitoring of EXIM flows
India's commerce ministry will launch a weekly system to monitor export-import trends and industry stress. This move addresses concerns over supply chain disruptions and rising costs impacting sectors like apparel and medical devices. Discussions also focused on packaging material challenges and the need for critical input availability. Ports are directed to enhance transparency and efficiency to support trade.
DGFT rolls out procedure for allocation of calcined coke
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has released new rules for importing calcined petroleum coke for aluminium production. Applications are now open for allocations for the 2026-27 period. Additionally, a certificate of inspection for rice exports is now only required for specific European countries. Exports to other European nations are exempt for six months.
West Asia crisis: Commerce ministry discusses shipping, port, packaging challenges with exporters
Indian commerce ministry met with exporters to tackle West Asia crisis impacts on packaging, shipping, and port operations. Discussions addressed rising material costs, supply chain disruptions, and potential solutions.
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