July 24, 2025
New 2025 Vegetable Oil Order to Boost Transparency with Digital Monitoring and Industry Reporting
The government will issue a new Vegetable Oil Products, Production and Availability Regulation Order in 2025 to replace the 2011 order, introducing advanced digital monitoring of edible oil imports, production, stocks, and sales. The order mandates industry reporting of production, sales, and pricing data to enhance transparency and compliance. Customs duty cuts on crude edible oils have been implemented to mitigate global price fluctuations and ensure affordability, with ongoing inspections to ensure these benefits reach consumers. Despite low overall food inflation, edible oil prices remain high, prompting government stock releases and initiatives to boost domestic oilseed production through research, infrastructure, and modern agricultural practices. The government's efforts include schemes aimed at increasing yields and production, while industry stakeholders highlight the importance of data-driven market analysis amid global supply volatility and geopolitical tensions.
July 24, 2025
UK-India Free Trade Agreement Enables Zero Import Duty on Smartphones, Optical Fibre Cables, and IT Services
The United Kingdom will import smartphones, optical fibre cables, and inverters from India at zero import duty under a newly signed Free Trade Agreement. This agreement also includes IT and IT-enabled services, enhancing export opportunities for Indian software companies. The zero-duty provision aims to boost India's electronics sector and expand its market presence in the UK.
July 24, 2025
Gold and silver prices drop sharply amid easing trade tensions and new US trade deals
Gold prices in the national capital fell by Rs 1,400 to Rs 99,620 per 10 grams due to profit-booking and subdued global trends, with 99.5% purity gold dropping Rs 1,200 to Rs 99,250 per 10 grams. Silver prices also declined sharply by Rs 3,000 to Rs 1,15,000 per kilogram after reaching a record high the previous day. The decreases followed optimism over new US trade agreements with Japan and the Philippines, which reduced demand for safe-haven assets like gold and silver. Internationally, spot gold and silver prices also declined amid expectations of easing trade tensions. Market analysts noted that upcoming US economic data and central bank decisions could influence future price volatility.
July 24, 2025
Minister rebuts influencer claims with data showing strong tourism growth and high hotel occupancy rates
A state minister addressed the legislative assembly to refute claims made by social media influencers alleging a decline in tourism, presenting official data showing a significant increase in tourist arrivals. The data indicated a rise in both domestic and international tourists compared to pre-pandemic levels, with hotel occupancy rates between 70% and 100%. The minister challenged influencers to provide evidence supporting their claims and highlighted efforts by state and central governments to boost tourism, including expanding into new international markets. The statement emphasized transparency and the accuracy of official tourism statistics, asserting that the sector is experiencing robust growth and recovery.
July 24, 2025
$6 Billion Investment Deals in 47 Sectors to Support Reconstruction and Job Creation Amid Conflict
Two Middle Eastern countries entered into 47 investment agreements valued at over $6 billion to support reconstruction efforts in a war-affected nation. The deals span sectors such as real estate, telecommunications, finance, housing, tourism, medical facilities, entertainment, and manufacturing. The agreements aim to generate approximately 50,000 direct and 150,000 indirect jobs. This investment initiative coincides with ongoing political instability and sectarian violence in the country, including clashes between religious minority groups and security forces, resulting in significant casualties and displacement. The investments serve as political support for the interim government amid these challenges.
July 24, 2025
Cybersecurity Firm Launches Mumbai Office and Adaptive Security Service for Wealth Management Sector
A cybersecurity firm expanded its operations in India by opening a new office in Mumbai and securing a strategic engagement with a leading wealth management company. The engagement involves deploying an adaptive managed detection and response service designed to enhance security operations through proactive threat detection, continuous risk assessment, and automated responses. This move marks the firm's transition from research and development to direct customer-facing services in India's financial sector. The solution aims to address regulatory compliance requirements from key Indian authorities by providing contextual threat monitoring and compliance-ready reporting. The Mumbai office will serve as a hub for sales, engineering, and client engagement, supporting the firm's broader regional growth strategy and collaboration with cloud providers and compliance experts.
July 24, 2025
India-UK Free Trade Deal Boosts Market Access, Tariff Cuts, and Security Cooperation Under Vision 2035
India and the UK signed a comprehensive free trade agreement aimed at doubling bilateral trade by 2030 through increased market access and tariff reductions on key goods such as British whisky, cars, Indian textiles, footwear, seafood, and engineering products. The pact benefits 99% of Indian exports and is hailed as the UK's most significant trade deal post-Brexit. Both countries emphasized enhanced cooperation on security, including extradition of economic offenders, and condemned terrorism without double standards. The agreement also supports India's agricultural and MSME sectors and aligns with a broader strategic partnership under a "Vision 2035" roadmap. Discussions included regional stability in the Indo-Pacific and global issues, underscoring respect for sovereignty and opposition to expansionism. The leaders also expressed condolences for recent aviation fatalities involving British citizens.
July 24, 2025
US-Japan Tariff Deal Lowers Duties to 15%, Boosting Global Markets and Trade Talks
Global financial markets experienced gains following the announcement of a US-Japan tariff agreement, which set US import duties on most Japanese exports at 15 percent, lower than the previously threatened 25 percent. This development raised hopes for additional trade agreements involving other countries, including the European Union, which is negotiating to reduce proposed US tariffs from 30 percent to potentially 10 percent. Meanwhile, European leaders sought progress on trade imbalances with China. Despite concerns that US tariffs could increase inflation and slow economic growth, many tariffs remain paused to facilitate negotiations. Regional markets mostly advanced, although some economies face risks from high tariff rates, such as Indonesia and the Philippines, where growth forecasts may be negatively impacted. Overall, the trade developments have contributed to market optimism and record highs in US stock indices, reflecting cautious confidence in the global economic outlook amid ongoing tariff discussions.
July 24, 2025
Global Auto Venture Launches Luxury Experience Centre with Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
A joint venture between a global automotive company and an Indian conglomerate inaugurated a luxury automotive experience centre in the national capital, aiming to redefine car ownership through personalized services and innovative technology. The centre, designed to evoke exclusivity and artistic expression, is part of a planned network of 14 centres across key Indian cities by the end of 2025. The venture focuses on sustainability, advanced automotive technology, and extensive localization to boost manufacturing and employment. The brand, with a century-long heritage, has introduced several automotive innovations in India, including electric and autonomous vehicles, and seeks to enhance the luxury car market by offering exclusive products and immersive customer experiences.
July 24, 2025
Free Trade Agreement Removes Tariffs on Most Products, Boosting Exports and Professional Mobility
A free trade agreement between two countries eliminates or reduces tariffs on nearly all tariff lines, providing duty-free access for a wide range of agricultural, marine, textile, engineering, pharmaceutical, chemical, plastic, sports goods, gems and jewelry, and leather products. The agreement enhances market access for emerging products, streamlines certification and standards compliance, and supports export growth across multiple sectors, including services and innovation. It also facilitates easier mobility for professionals offering contractual and independent services. Tariff eliminations address previous disadvantages compared to competitors, aiming to increase export shares significantly within a few years. The pact includes provisions to support innovation and joint activities in emerging technologies, fostering trade and development. Overall, the agreement is expected to substantially boost exports, improve competitiveness, and expand bilateral trade in goods and services.
July 24, 2025
Government facilities boost industrial growth and GST collections under new development projects worth Rs 358.37 crore
The Gujarat government announced that government-provided facilities and incentives have contributed to industrial growth and increased Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections. The Chief Minister stated that taxpayers are more willing to pay taxes as they see the revenue being used for public welfare. Development projects worth Rs 358.37 crore, including infrastructure improvements such as bus stops, school classrooms, and power substations, were inaugurated. The government emphasized that improved industrial facilities enhance business performance, leading to higher tax payments. The increase in GST revenue reflects public trust in government schemes and administration. The government also highlighted initiatives to ensure comprehensive beneficiary coverage under welfare schemes and sustainable resource management for future generations.
July 24, 2025
India-UK Free Trade Deal Excludes Some Foods but Opens 95% Agri Exports Duty-Free to Boost Farmers and Trade
A recent free trade agreement between India and the UK excludes dairy products, edible oils, apples, and oats to protect domestic farmers, while granting zero tariffs on 95% of agricultural and processed food exports. Indian staples like spices, pulses, and marine products will enter the UK market duty-free, enhancing export opportunities and farmer incomes. The agreement aims to boost agricultural exports by over 20% in three years, supporting India's goal of $100 billion in agri-exports by 2030. It also provides zero-duty access for 99% of marine exports, including shrimp and tuna, and offers Geographical Indication protection for select Indian craft drinks. Key agricultural states in India are expected to benefit significantly, while the food processing sector gains increased access to the UK market. The FTA addresses existing trade imbalances by opening premium UK markets to Indian products, promoting growth in emerging sectors like organic herbs and millets.
July 24, 2025
Indian airlines report 183 technical aircraft defects in 2025, down from previous years, under DGCA safety rules
Five Indian airlines reported a total of 183 technical defects in their aircraft to the aviation regulator DGCA from January to July 21, 2025. The largest number of defects, 85, were reported by the Air India Group. Other airlines reported 62, 28, and 8 defects respectively. The figures represent a decrease compared to previous years, with 421 defects reported in 2024 and 448 in 2023. The civil aviation ministry stated that all reported defects must be investigated promptly by the airlines in coordination with the DGCA to ensure timely corrective and preventive measures. Major defects receive particular attention through joint investigations to maintain aviation safety standards.
July 24, 2025
Four Arrested in Rs 3.77 Crore Illegal Gutka Seizure Under Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
Authorities seized banned gutka valued at approximately Rs 3.77 crore in Maharashtra and arrested four individuals connected to its illegal possession and transport. The Anti-Narcotics Cell conducted raids following a tip-off, initially apprehending one suspect with gutka worth Rs 22.40 lakh. Subsequent investigation led to a larger seizure of goods valued at Rs 3.54 crore in another location, with additional arrests of truck drivers involved in the transport. The operation was supported by the Food and Drug Administration and involved charges under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Law enforcement continues to investigate the source and intended recipients of the banned product.
July 24, 2025
Company Approves Expansion into Organic Waste Management with Strategic Investment Offer at 100% Premium
A company based in Ahmedabad has approved a plan to enter the organic waste management and recycling sector as part of its diversification strategy. The industry is expected to grow at an annual rate of 10-12% over the next five years. The company views this expansion as a commitment to sustainable business models and long-term stakeholder value. Additionally, a Singapore-based firm has proposed acquiring up to 12% equity in the company through a strategic investment at a 100% premium over the current share price.