TARIFF IMPLEMENTATION
DGFT invites applications for vehicle import quotas under India-UK FTA
The government of India has opened applications for importers seeking duty concessions under the India-UK trade pact. This initiative relates to a quota of 24,500 passenger cars and 2,750 transport vehicles. The applications are accepted from November 6, 2026 to November 21, 2026, according to the Directorate General of Foreign Trade. The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement allows reduced tariffs on vehicle imports between the two nations.
ETMarkets Commodity Talk| Building a 5-year portfolio? Why gold could take the largest share of your commodity allocation, Deveya Gaglani decodes
In this edition of ETMarkets Commodity Talk, Deveya Gaglani, Senior Research Analyst – Commodities at Axis Direct, shares his views on the evolving commodity landscape and the role of gold, silver and industrial metals in a diversified portfolio. He also explains why gold could form the largest component of a long-term commodity allocation, while highlighting the risks of blindly buying the dip or chasing a sharp rally.
India's farms offer 116 GW solar manufacturing opportunity: ISMA
India's agricultural sector could create a demand for 116 GW of solar modules through the solarisation of irrigation pumps. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) aims to support this transition. Solarising pumps can reduce dependence on conventional electricity and diesel while improving farmers' electricity availability. The report emphasizes the need for sustained policy support and demand visibility to benefit domestic manufacturers.
COP31: EU FTA on horizon, but India won't budge on CBAM
India's environment minister Bhupender Yadav reaffirmed the country's opposition to trade-linked barriers at COP31. The upcoming negotiations will focus on the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism affecting various Indian sectors. Participation in carbon markets should remain voluntary, according to Yadav. Additionally, India emphasizes the importance of climate finance from developed nations.
India wants more factories, fabs and data centres. Where will the water come from?
India's ambition to become a developed nation by 2047 is constrained by growing water resource challenges. Industries across sectors, including thermal power and semiconductor manufacturing, face water scarcity issues that could hinder growth. Many regions are already experiencing severe water stress, impacting economic development plans drastically. Adopting recycling and reuse technologies will be crucial for managing water in industries effectively.
The business of running a hospital: Balancing profitability, patient trust and scale
A hospital’s financial health depends on more than occupancy and revenue, requiring a careful balance of cost control, cash flow and patient trust.
- Go To Page 1
Govt moves to resolve Scotch tariff dispute under UK trade pact, sources say
India has assured industry executives that it will honor the trade pact with Britain regarding Scotch whisky tariffs. Ongoing investigations into bulk Scotch imports are expected to result in a resolution. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal detailed steps to address concerns over duty concessions for bulk imports. The disagreement centers on customs classifications affecting the whisky industry significantly.
Why is India's probe of Scotch imports from Britain rattling liquor majors?
India's investigation into bulk Scotch whisky imports has triggered the first major trade dispute under the India-UK free trade agreement. The government argues bulk Scotch does not qualify for reduced import tariffs, potentially restoring duties to 150% from 75%. The dispute threatens a $65 billion global whisky market, putting Diageo, Pernod Ricard and Indian liquor makers at odds with customs officials.
India-New Zealand FTA: Expanding India’s footprint in Oceania
More than a trade deal, the India-New Zealand FTA is a strategic gateway to new markets, fresh investment and stronger capabilities, positioning India to compete, connect, and grow across the Asia-Pacific.
India, EU discuss FTA implementation, customs cooperation and market access in Brussels
India and the European Union engaged in discussions regarding the implementation of their Free Trade Agreement. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held meetings with various senior European Commission officials in Brussels, focusing on market access and customs procedures. The FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on the majority of exports from both regions. Both parties are working towards the proposed signing and full ratification of the agreement.
Govt to meet liquor firms as domestic giants join foreign peers in Scotch dispute
India's government is holding talks with liquor companies regarding tariff reductions on bulk Scotch imports. Major firms, including Diageo and Pernod, are expressing alarm about the investigation. Approximately 80% of Scotch imports from Britain arrive in bulk for local manufacturing. The Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies has warned of adverse effects on domestic production. Companies seek urgent intervention from the government to avoid disruption caused by the tariff issue.
India's FTAs to open new export opportunities as country eyes $1 trillion milestone: IIFT VC
India's trade deficit is likely to persist as long as the country remains dependent on oil imports, although rising exports of value-added petroleum products are helping narrow the gap, K. Rangarajan, Vice-Chancellor of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), said on Friday.
India is addressing Wall Street’s favourite ‘elephant’ in the room to its own advantage
The Indian government has identified 762 potential applications of artificial intelligence across 62 ministries and departments, spanning farming, railway safety, tax compliance, public grievances, customs and healthcare. While some tools are already in use, others remain in pilot or development stages.
US midterm elections 2026: What's at stake for Trump, his opponents and 2028 White House race
On November 3, the midterm elections will play a crucial role in determining the future of Trump's presidency. All 435 House seats and 35 Senate seats are up for grabs, with control of Congress in the balance. Democrats hope to gain the upper hand, countering Trump’s agenda, while Republicans strive to hold onto their majorities.
India, Mexico begin talks for trade pact; aim to boost commerce, investments
India and Mexico have initiated negotiations for a preferential trade agreement to enhance bilateral trade and investment. The agreement aims to create new economic opportunities while addressing market access, customs procedures, and trade facilitation. Discussions included organising a Mexican business mission to India in early 2027 to improve commercial ties. India had a trade surplus with Mexico, largely due to exports in autos and pharmaceuticals.
India's gold import route changing course for a benefit all jewellers want
India is diversifying its gold import sources as expanding domestic refining capacity, tax incentives and the India-UAE trade pact reshape supply chains. Switzerland’s share of India’s bullion imports fell to 21.9% in FY26 from 42.4% five years earlier, while the UAE’s share rose to 16.5% from 10.8%, according to Crisil Intelligence.
Research: Navigating the Business Risks of Changing Pro-America Sentiment
U.S. firms increasingly operate in a marketplace where “Made in USA” is no longer a neutral provenance claim but a charged political signal. A new study analyzing 5,355 companies over twenty years found that pro-America marketing has increasingly shifted from pride-based patriotism to grievance-fueled, us‑versus‑them nationalism. While this can create upsides—new customers, loyalty, pricing power—it also exposes companies to narrative capture, boycotts, and legal scrutiny. To avoid risk, companies must examine their exposure along two axes: domestic embeddedness and symbolic intensity. Leaders must align operations and symbolism, set clear guardrails, and proactively manage meaning drift before others define their loyalties.
Gap apparel supplier Gokaldas eyes doubling Europe exports share to cut US reliance
Gokaldas Exports, a prominent Indian apparel supplier, expects to increase its export share to Europe significantly. The company currently derives 15% of its exports from Europe, anticipating this to rise to around 25%-30% in three to five years. This change is expected due to a proposed trade agreement between India and the European Union.
Lula beats Trump-aligned Bolsonaro in Brazil Presidential election: What happens next for US ties and the Amazon
In a decisive victory, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has clinched the presidency of Brazil for the fourth time, signaling a potential shift in the nation’s diplomatic ties with the United States under Donald Trump. Lula's agenda includes combatting Amazon deforestation, a stark departure from Bolsonaro's environmental stance. Meanwhile, Flávio Bolsonaro seeks to uphold his father's political legacy.
India's Scotch probe of Diageo, Pernod undermining India-UK pact benefits, trade group says
The British government said "iconic UK products" like whiskies would benefit from the pact. Indian investigators, however, have privately told companies the reduced rate does not apply to bulk Scotch concentrates, creating the first significant dispute over the free trade agreement since it took effect.
Trump says US will 'take care of Cuba' on its way back from Iran
President Donald Trump mentioned plans to deal with Cuba following discussions about Iran. He expressed confidence that the US would reach an agreement with Cuba. The Trump administration aims to alter the current communist government in Cuba. Recently imposed oil blockades have triggered severe energy shortages in Cuba. Cuba's foreign minister indicated an openness to dialogue with the United States amidst these tensions.
US Treasury proposes a rule to crack down on high-tech investments in China, other adversaries
The U.S. Treasury Department plans to enforce a rule limiting high-tech investments in China and Russia. This initiative aims to curb investments that may boost military capabilities in identified countries. The proposed restrictions will apply specifically to investments exceeding $50,000 and exclude many financial options. Treasury will review public comments before finalizing the rule, indicating a longer compliance process. Additionally, the ongoing tech rivalry between the U.S.
From $6 Diesel to Immigration Raids: What Michigan and Kansas Senate candidates told voters before Election Day
Candidates in Michigan and Kansas addressed pressing issues such as rising fuel costs and immigration enforcement. As the midterm elections approach, these topics influence voters' concerns about household finances and national security. Economic arguments varied between the two states, reflecting local priorities and the candidates' positions. The outcome of these Senate races may affect control of the Senate and federal policy directions.
India has huge scope to expand processed food exports to UK after trade pact: TPCI
India's processed food exports to the UK represent significant growth potential with only a 0.6 percent share. The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement eliminates tariffs on various food products. As a result, Indian producers gain immediate competitive advantages in these markets. Trade missions, market intelligence sharing, and SME growth opportunities are key focuses of the TPCI-UKIBC partnership.
High-voltage reality: ‘Data hubs need stable grids more than sops’
As states roll out the red carpet to attract private investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure, delivering uninterrupted power to project sites from day one would be crucial for their success, they said.
Ahead of COP31, UN sees higher global warming, even in best-case scenario
Global warming is now projected to exceed previous estimates, with average temperatures expected to rise significantly. Urgent and stringent cuts in greenhouse gas emissions are crucial to achieve best-case outcomes by mid-century. Current national emissions reduction plans fall far short of the necessary targets outlined in the recent UN report. As countries prepare for COP31 in Turkey, the need for decisive action becomes increasingly urgent.
India-New Zealand FTA comes into effect today
The FTA will provide Indian exporters with 100% duty-free access to the New Zealand market, opening opportunities for MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, farmers and artisans. This is expected to facilitate $20 billion in investments into India in 15 years that would create opportunities across manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and innovation.
Tread carefully on trade: India must hold its ground as Trump’s tariff stick loses its bite
India is navigating complex trade negotiations with the United States, focusing on tariffs and energy imports. Though a trade deal is pending, India prioritizes solid assurances to protect its interests. Indian exports to the US have increased notably, contributing to a reduced trade deficit recently. Additionally, India seeks to maintain stable energy supplies amid fluctuating global oil dynamics.
India-New Zealand FTA kicks in October 20, gives all Indian goods zero-duty access
India's free trade agreement with New Zealand will begin on October 20 and provide duty-free access for Indian goods. This agreement aims to boost bilateral trade significantly by 2030, increasing it from $2.4 billion to nearly ₹35,000 crore. New Zealand will grant 100% market access, while India will provide tariff concessions on 70% of its tariff lines. Customs clearance timelines will be expedited, enhancing trade efficiency and reducing costs.
Load More
