Blackstone’s CEO sees the good thing about Trump tariffs, confident on India’s growth

Stephen Schwarzman, Blackstone’s CEO, believes the new US tariff regime could boost growth by attracting foreign investments and revitalizing US manufacturing. He anticipates significant economic expansion driven by increased manufacturing activity. Schwarzman also discussed Blackstone’s plans to double its India exposure to $100 billion, highlighting infrastructure investment opportunities.

India is in talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to sign an agreement securing critical minerals like cobalt and copper. These minerals are vital for India’s energy transition and growing industrial demands. India is looking to secure such supplies from resource-rich countries like Congo, Mongolia, and Zambia. The Indian mines ministry plans to […]

India risks widespread factory shutdowns and job losses due to upcoming quality control orders (QCOs) on steel fastener imports. The QCOs, to be implemented in phases, might lead to critical shortages and customs delays. Small firms may struggle with certification, potentially causing industrial stagnation.

India’s trade deficit likely narrowed to USD 21.5 billion in February from January’s USD 23 billion, driven by a moderation in the Non-Oil-Non-Gold segment. The oil trade deficit decreased due to lower global Brent crude prices and reduced oil imports from Russia. Rising geopolitical risks and tariffs could limit further trade balance recovery.

The US has strongly criticised high tariffs imposed by India, Canada, and Japan on American goods. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt cited India’s 150% tariff on American alcohol and 100% on agricultural products, saying the US seeks fair trade. President Donald Trump also suggested further tariff hikes, accusing nations of exploiting the US for […]

Indian steel companies are hesitant to announce new investments due to increasing imports, especially from China and South Korea, which may impact domestic prices and profit margins. The National Steel Policy aims for 300 mt capacity by 2030, but current conditions may slow expansions, with profitability expected to remain flat.

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations, along with the International Trade Centre and UK government support, launched the SheTrades India Initiative Hub. This initiative aims to empower women entrepreneurs by providing workshops, mentoring, business matchmaking events, and policy advocacy to help them access international markets and development opportunities.

India and the US are in negotiations for a mutually beneficial, multi-sector bilateral trade agreement focusing on market access, reducing import duties, and removing non-tariff barriers. Both countries aim to double their two-way trade to $500 billion by 2030, with the first part of the agreement expected by fall 2025.

India is considering offering new incentives to exporters to counter the decline in outbound shipments and potential impact of reciprocal tariffs by the US. The proposed ₹2,250 crore Export Promotion Mission aims to boost exports, despite a recent decline in India’s goods exports. The government hopes to achieve $800 billion in goods and services exports […]

New Delhi announced that the certificate of inspection requirement for rice exports from government bodies mainly applies to EU member states, including the UK, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The rule is exempt for other European countries for the next six months.