India tightens safety norms to curb low-quality Chinese appliance imports, boost local manufacturing

The government is set to tighten import regulations on small consumer appliances and electronic lifestyle items, primarily from China, by enforcing stricter product safety standards. A recent order mandates BIS certification for a range of electrical goods, including recliners, beauty products, and kitchen appliances, effective March 2026.

India’s GeM is set to introduce global tendering features this year, spurred by the FTA with the UK, which allows UK suppliers to bid for Indian tenders as Class II local suppliers. This move aims to tap into the UK market and facilitate transactions worth Rs 7 lakh crore in 2025-26.

India and the US are in talks for a trade agreement. The deal may happen in three stages. An initial agreement is expected before July. It will cover industrial goods and farm products. Piyush Goyal is in Washington for discussions. A broader deal is planned around September. The final agreement needs US Congress approval. Negotiations […]

India bans garment imports from Bangladesh via land routes. This decision aims to boost local textile manufacturing. The move could generate over ₹1,000 crore for Indian businesses. Some branded garments might face supply issues, potentially raising prices slightly. The industry anticipates reduced backdoor entry of Chinese fabrics. Supply chains will likely experience short-term disruptions.

India has restricted Bangladeshi exports to its North-Eastern states due to concerns over the interim regime’s threats and perceived anti-India stance. Allegations include potential disruption of NE states’ prosperity, territorial ambitions, and growing ties with Pakistan, raising fears of ISI activity and cross-border implications.

Union Bank of India’s report indicates India’s trade outlook faces uncertainty due to potential US reciprocal tariffs, projecting a wider current account deficit of 1.2% of GDP in FY26. April 2025 saw a significant widening of the merchandise trade deficit, driven by increased imports and a surge in the non-oil non-gold trade deficit, despite a […]

India has restricted Bangladeshi ready-made garment exports through land ports, citing unfair trade practices. This decision responds to Bangladesh’s barriers on Indian yarn and rice, aiming for reciprocal trade terms. The move impacts Bangladesh’s significant RMG exports, valued at $700 million annually, with 93% entering India via land ports.

India’s imposition of land port restrictions on specific Bangladeshi exports to the northeast aims to equalize trade relations, addressing Bangladesh’s previous restrictions on Indian transit and market access. This reciprocal measure, including limitations on RMG imports to select seaports, mirrors Bangladesh’s trade barriers on Indian goods.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has imposed immediate port restrictions on specific imports from Bangladesh. Ready-made garments can now only enter through Nhava Sheva and Kolkata seaports, excluding land ports. Furthermore, various goods like processed foods, plastics, and wooden furniture face restrictions, barring entry through Land Customs Stations and Integrated Check Posts in several […]

India has ascended to become the fourth-largest exporter of marine products, marking a significant rise from eighth position in 2014-15. Exports surged to 16.85 LMT in FY25, a substantial increase from 10.51 LMT a decade prior, with export value reaching $7.2 billion. This growth, driven by improved practices and infrastructure, reflects India’s enhanced global competitiveness.