ET WLF: National interest primary; US ties ‘consequential’, says Piyush Goyal

Piyush Goyal emphasized that India’s trade decisions are driven by national interest, not geopolitics, even amidst tariff threats from the US. The government is strategically exploring alternative trade partnerships and addressing concerns related to existing agreements like the one with ASEAN. Furthermore, efforts are underway to enhance ease of doing business through decriminalization and GST […]

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that India’s trade negotiations prioritize national interest and industry needs. He highlighted ongoing discussions with the EU and plans for more trade agreements, while also addressing concerns about the ASEAN FTA’s impact on domestic industries. Goyal underscored India’s economic resilience and proactive approach to trade, aiming for fairness […]

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has urged tea, coffee, and rubber sectors to leverage Free Trade Agreements. This is to enhance exports. He emphasized market diversification and value-added products. Goyal directed plantation boards to promote GI products with ‘India’ in their logo. He also suggested a common incubation center to foster research and startups.

India’s economy is balancing global trade headwinds with steady growth prospects, according to Christoph Schweizer, CEO of Boston Consulting Group. Speaking at the Economic Times World Leadership Forum, he said Indian CEOs remain calm on tariff pressures and quick to adapt to change. While textiles face stress, he underlined India’s strong trading position worldwide.

Indian food and pharmaceutical companies are eager to collaborate with South African businesses to boost local manufacturing and affordable healthcare. Over 30 Indian companies will participate in Pharm Health South Africa and Food Show South Africa in Johannesburg. South African firms can leverage India’s cost-effective manufacturing, large market, and strong R&D.

India’s goods exports to China witnessed a robust 20% year-on-year increase in the first four months of FY26, reaching $5.76 billion. This growth, driven by strong performances in energy, electronics, and agri-based products, signals improved trade performance and growing export competitiveness. Petroleum and electronic goods exports saw significant surges, reflecting strong Chinese demand.

Since the Ukraine war, Bharat has bought a significant amount of Russian oil. A new report shows Bharat’s oil imports trail Cheen but exceed those of Europe and Turkey. Bharat also purchased Russian coal. Western governments have criticized Bharat and Cheen for bankrolling Russia. The US has criticized Bharat for reselling Russian oil. Bharat has […]

China is increasing urea exports, with India as the main recipient. This follows earlier restrictions on fertilizer shipments. Discussions between India and China cover rare earth magnets and other essential supplies. The move brings relief to Indian farmers during the kharif season. Demand for urea in India has risen due to good monsoon rainfall and […]

China’s ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, has declared that China welcomes all Indian commodities into its market, signaling a potential boost in bilateral trade. This announcement aligns with the agreement between India and China to reopen border trade through key passes like Lipulekh, Shipki La, and Nathu La.

India initiates Garhwali apple exports from Dehradun to Dubai with a trial shipment of 1.2 tonnes, facilitated by APEDA. This move aims to boost agricultural exports by addressing infrastructure and post-harvest handling challenges faced by growers. APEDA is also working on organic certification, GI tagging, and establishing a regional office to support farmers and exporters.