Paper and paperboard imports rise 37% in Apr-Dec FY23

Imports of paper and paperboards have surged by 37% to approximately 1.47 million tonnes in April-December of the current fiscal year, impacting local paper mills, according to the Indian Paper Manufacturers Association (IPMA). This marks a significant increase from around 1.07 million tonnes during the same period last fiscal year.

The WTO ministerial conference in Abu Dhabi has sparked discussions on reforms to agriculture and fisheries subsidies. Developed countries aim to reshape the institution to favor their interests, impacting dispute resolution, decision-making, and negotiations. Developing countries must safeguard their interests and prevent the dominance of plurilateral agreements.

“Implementation of proposals in the WTO is challenging. The previous agreement to temporarily remove intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines and discuss extending the waiver to diagnostics and therapeutics appears unlikely to be implemented

Albania, a Western Balkans country with a growing economy and a reputation for Mother Teresa, is aiming to become India’s gateway to the region where countries are negotiating to join the European Union. Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani believes Albania offers an opportunity to deepen and strengthen its relationship with India, focusing […]

India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, stated that at the upcoming meeting in Abu Dhabi, India will advocate for upholding the guiding principles of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Goyal also mentioned plans to address the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) both at the WTO and through bilateral discussions with the EU.

India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, emphasizes that India does not rush into Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) unless they are equitable, balanced, and fair for the country. He highlights the changed ground realities in India and stresses the importance of thorough negotiations. Current FTA negotiations include the UK, Oman, and the European Free Trade […]

India hopes for a positive outcome at the upcoming WTO meeting in Abu Dhabi, urging other countries to listen to the concerns of developing nations. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the WTO’s role in setting trade rules but also acknowledged significant problems within the organization. The meeting will discuss various issues including agriculture, fisheries subsidies, […]

A global semiconductor consortium, including industry giants like Qualcomm and Intel, urges India to reconsider its plan for duties on cross-border digital e-commerce and data transfers. The World Semiconductor Council warns that such a stance could hinder India’s chip design industry and impact the global semiconductor workforce. The semiconductor sector is crucial for India’s economic […]

Smaller steelmakers in India seek a ban on iron ore exports after a 170% surge in sales to Chinese mills inflated local prices. Fearing industry shutdowns, lobby groups from major manufacturing states request government restrictions. Second-tier producers, constituting 40% of national output, face higher input costs than top mills. Any export limits could support iron […]

The government granted permission for traders to export 54,760 tonnes of onion to Bangladesh, Mauritius, Bahrain, and Bhutan until March 31st. The specified quantity can be exported within this timeframe, with the details currently being finalized. As of now, there is a ban on onion exports till March 31.