TRADE PACT INDIA UK OMAN
India, South Korea to upgrade trade pact, deepen tech and supply chain ties
India and South Korea will resume talks to upgrade their economic partnership agreement. The goal is to increase bilateral trade to 50 billion dollars by 2030. Both nations will also enhance cooperation in critical technologies and supply chains. An economic security dialogue will be established. Discussions will cover shipbuilding, steel, and sustainability. Industrial collaboration will expand through new agreements.
Hormuz traffic at standstill as US vessel seizure widens risk
Commercial traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has halted again. This follows a brief reopening over the weekend which ended with the US seizing an Iranian ship. This action has raised concerns for shipowners. Benchmark oil prices have jumped. A fragile US-Iran ceasefire is set to expire soon.
Iranian forces launch drones toward US warships after attack on commercial ship in Sea of Oman: Iran media
Iranian forces launched drones at US warships after an attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman. The IRGC claimed US forces retreated after firing at the vessel, which Iran accused the US of seizing in violation of a ceasefire. Tensions escalate in the Strait of Hormuz amid accusations of maritime piracy and blockade violations.
Tehran says restrictions on Iranian oil come with a price
Iran's top official warned global fuel prices will remain unstable unless pressure on its oil exports ceases. He stated a free oil market is essential for everyone's security. Oil prices surged as tensions between Iran and the US disrupted tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
India, Russia ink pact to station 3,000 troops, warships and aircraft in each other’s territory
India and Russia have entered into a reciprocal logistics agreement allowing up to 3,000 troops, naval ships, and aircraft to be stationed in each other's territories. This pact, effective January 12, 2025, aims to bolster long-term military cooperation, facilitate joint exercises, and enhance interoperability in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions.
As Iran war strains ties with Trump's US, UK looks to Europe
Britain's government is set to announce legislation next month to move the country closer to the European Union, as the Iran war sours the UK's so-called special relationship with the United States. "When the relationship with the United States is fracturing, it means there's reduced opposition to a closer relationship with the EU among the public," said Aspinall. pdh/jkb/rmb/jhb
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Indian refiner Reliance rejects Iran oil cargoes as waiver deadline looms
Reliance Industries has rejected two Iranian oil cargoes. This comes just before a U.S. waiver on Iranian oil exports expires. Washington will not renew these waivers. India had allowed Reliance to buy Iranian oil on several sanctioned tankers. Reliance stated the Derya tanker cargo did not meet compliance requirements. Indian Oil Corp recently bought Iranian crude.
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.
Oil producers, shipowners in standoff over who takes Hormuz risk
This standoff highlights the extreme dangers of this vital energy route, with owners demanding unrealistic guarantees and charterers unwilling to accept the burden.
How a US blockade on Iran has sanctioned ships turning around
The US Navy’s blockade of Iran is showing impact, with sanctioned vessels turning back or halting after crossing the Strait of Hormuz. Officials say maritime trade has been effectively stopped, raising pressure on Iran’s economy, even as risks persist with spoofed ship data and volatile regional shipping conditions.
India's trade gap shrinks in March, swells in FY26
India's trade deficit saw a reduction in March as the West Asia conflict disrupted trade flows. Exports and imports both declined, narrowing the monthly deficit. However, the overall trade deficit for the fiscal year widened. Despite challenges, India achieved record exports of $860 billion in FY26, showcasing resilience. Several free trade agreements are expected to boost future trade prospects.
India trade delegation to visit US for BTA talks, first in-person meeting since October
An Indian trade team led by Darpan Jain will visit the US from April 20–22 for talks on a bilateral trade agreement, the first in-person meeting since October. Officials said the deal is being recalibrated amid changing tariff conditions, while India also rejected US allegations in a Section 301 probe.
US’ 301 probes: India denies allegations, seeks termination of both investigations
India has rejected allegations by the US Trade Representative under its Section 301 probe, denying claims of “structural excess capacity” in sectors such as petrochemicals and textiles. It argued that its $42 billion trade surplus with the US is a macroeconomic outcome shaped by multiple factors and not due to unfair practices.
India stands by trade pact with US, trade negotiators to visit Washington next week
An Indian trade delegation will visit the US to discuss a bilateral trade agreement. Negotiations will focus on recalibrating the deal due to recent tariff changes. India aims to secure favorable terms and commitments. This engagement follows a call between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump. Discussions will also cover trade issues and investigations.
Hormuz shipping muted as US blockade takes hold: Tracking data
A trickle of ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz Tuesday and Wednesday as a US blockade appeared to further curb traffic in the trade route already paralysed by Iranian forces, marine tracking data showed. Here are the latest developments in the strait, - US blockade enforced - The US military said the blockade of vessels either departing or destined for Iranian ports had been fully implemented during the first 48 hours.
India-UK trade agreement may come into force next month: Commerce Secy
India's trade deals are set to boost exports. The pact with the UK is expected in May. Oman's agreement is slated for June 1. New Zealand's FTA is anticipated on April 27. The India-EU FTA is targeted for this calendar year. These agreements will open new avenues for Indian businesses.
Despite Trump's naval blockade, Iran has not run out of cards
Iran warns it could block vital shipping lanes including the Persian Gulf, Sea of Oman, and Red Sea. This move escalates tensions with the US amid ongoing talks. Pakistan is mediating to prevent further conflict. Iran's threat highlights its asymmetric capabilities to disrupt global trade and raise costs for all involved.
Geopolitical tensions cripple India-Middle East trade in March
India's trade with the Middle East saw a significant drop in March. Exports and imports fell by over 50 percent. This decline resulted from disruptions caused by the US-Israel attack on Iran. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, faced temporary closure. This impacted shipments of gems, jewellery, engineering goods, and rice.
Iran military warns will block Red Sea if US naval blockade continues
Iran's military warned on Wednesday it would block trade through the Red Sea, along with the Gulf and Sea of Oman, if the US naval blockade on Iranian ports continues. "The powerful armed forces of the Islamic republic will not allow any exports or imports to continue in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea," said Ali Abdollahi.
India unveils a power-packed FTA calendar: UK, Oman, New Zealand deals next
In 2026, India will embark on an ambitious journey to amplify its role in global commerce. The commencement of pivotal free trade agreements with the United Kingdom and Oman, alongside an impending partnership with New Zealand, highlights India's strategic focus on fostering robust international connections. This proactive approach demonstrates the nation's dedication to turning diplomatic negotiations into thriving economic collaborations.
Indian official team to visit Washington next week for trade talks
An Indian delegation is heading to Washington next week for crucial trade talks. The meeting focuses on an interim trade agreement between India and the US. This pact was delayed due to changes in US tariff policies. The US has imposed new tariffs affecting global trade partners.
Trump warns of elimination if Iranian Navy ships hinder Hormuz 'blockade'
Iran news: America has begun blocking ships in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump warned Iran's Navy ships of immediate elimination if they approach the blockade. He stated that 158 Iranian ships have already been destroyed. This action aims to force Iran to agree to open the waterway and accept a peace deal.
India, Oman discuss ways to boost trade, investments
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met with Oman's Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. They discussed ways to enhance trade and investment ties. This follows recent discussions with other Gulf nations. The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aims to boost mutual growth.
India-UK free trade pact may come into force from second week of May: Official
The India-UK free trade agreement is set to begin in the second week of May. This pact will allow 99 percent of Indian exports to enter Britain duty-free. Tariffs on British products like cars and whisky will also be reduced in India. A separate agreement will prevent double social levies for temporary workers. This aims to boost trade significantly.
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.
Only 10 vessels cross Strait of Hormuz since US-Iran truce as world’s oil lifeline remains frozen
The Strait of Hormuz sees minimal ship traffic post-ceasefire. Only a handful of vessels have navigated the crucial waterway amid ongoing concerns. Iran has outlined specific routes, with some ships reportedly paying fees. Hundreds of ships remain stranded, and the global oil market faces severe disruption. Shipping giants are hesitant to resume normal operations.
India eases rules for rice exports to some European countries
India has eased export rules for rice. Basmati and non-basmati rice can now be shipped to certain European nations. This is without the usual inspection certificate from its export agency. This exemption is for a period of six months. The rule applies to EU member states, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Other European countries are already exempt.
Certificates of origin can only be issued by authorised agencies: DGFT
New rules mandate that only authorized agencies can issue Certificates of Origin. These certificates are crucial for exporters to claim duty concessions under Free Trade Agreements. Exporters must ensure invoice numbers match on certificates and shipping bills for automated verification.
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