eznews.inMarina Beach in Chennai presents a stark and "desolate look" as Cyclone Ditwah, now weakened to a deep depression, continues to impact the region with rough sea conditions and strong winds. Official closures have been enforced along the coast, affecting popular areas such as Chennai, Thiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, and Ranipet, which are experiencing moderate rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the system, moving northward at 10 km/h, is currently situated about 90 km south-southeast of Chennai and is expected to remain stationary for the next 24 hours. The deep depression, located approximately 50 km from the north Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts, is forecasted to gradually weaken further into a depression by noon on December 1. Residents are advised to remain cautious as the remnants of the storm continue to affect local weather conditions. 
Published: Dec 01 2025, 10 ameznews.inIndian buyers have made significant forward purchases of soybean oil, securing over 150,000 tons monthly from April to July 2026, in anticipation of rising palm oil prices. This unusual buying trend, driven by soybean oil's $20- to $30-a-ton discount compared to palm oil, reflects concerns over potential shortages due to Indonesia's plans to increase its biodiesel blend from 40% to 50% in late 2026. Traders are hedging against this policy, which could tighten global supplies and elevate prices. Additionally, expectations of reduced sunflower oil availability from the Black Sea region are influencing market dynamics. Despite the current price disparity, with palm oil being $90–$100 cheaper per ton than soybean oil, demand for soybean imports has been subdued, as some buyers have canceled orders due to lower domestic prices. This shift highlights the complexities of the vegetable oil market as traders navigate fluctuating supply and demand conditions.
Published: Dec 01 2025, 10 ameznews.inIn a rapidly evolving business landscape, technology is transforming supply chains from mere cost centres into proactive growth enablers, according to a recent McKinsey report. Automated warehousing systems, for instance, can boost storage capacity by up to 25% while enhancing productivity by 30-40% and reducing picking errors by over 50%. AI-driven tools are revolutionising demand forecasting and logistics, enabling companies to respond swiftly to market changes and reduce inventory levels by up to 30%. India's warehousing market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10-12% over the next five years, with government initiatives like Gati Shakti and the National Logistics Policy paving the way for digital integration. With the right infrastructure and policy support, India could significantly lower logistics costs, enhancing global competitiveness for its businesses.
Published: Dec 01 2025, 6 ameznews.inThe New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA) recently marked its golden jubilee by launching and laying the foundation for projects exceeding ₹1,200 crore, primarily aimed at enhancing its oil, gas, petrochemicals, and edible oil sectors. Key developments include the inauguration of a ₹500-crore oil and gas storage facility by Aegis Vopak, capable of handling 2 million tonnes of cargo annually, and the establishment of a ₹70-crore LPG evacuation terminal. Additionally, two significant storage terminals for bitumen and edible oils were dedicated, each valued at ₹100 crore. A ₹72.6 crore roofing project over rail lines at the marshalling yard aims to mitigate operational disruptions during monsoons. PB Ahmed Mudassar, President of the Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the need for improved handling of less-than-container-load cargo and container freight stations to attract consolidators and enhance the port's logistics capabilities, reinforcing Mangaluru's strategic national importance.
Published: Dec 01 2025, 6 ameznews.inSingapore has been recognized as the world's leading container port in the inaugural 'Leading Container Ports of the World' report, published by DNV and Menon Economics, with Shanghai and Ningbo-Zhoushan following in second and third place, respectively. The report highlights the critical role of maritime transport, which accounts for nearly 90% of global trade by volume, with container ports managing over 80% of non-bulk merchandise. In related news, Bangladesh has signed a significant agreement to develop the Laldia container terminal in Chattogram, a project valued at over $550 million, aimed at enhancing port capacity and efficiency while incorporating sustainable practices. Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported a 4.1% rise in global air cargo demand in October, marking eight consecutive months of growth, alongside a slight increase in global manufacturing sentiment, despite ongoing concerns over new export orders amid tariff uncertainties.
Published: Dec 01 2025, 6 ameznews.inNavi Mumbai airport is set to launch on December 25, marking a significant addition to India's aviation infrastructure by facilitating simultaneous passenger and cargo operations. Located just 14 km from Jawaharlal Nehru Port, the airport aims to enhance multi-modal connectivity, crucial for exporters. The integrated cargo terminal, nearing completion, will initially handle 0.5 million tonnes annually, featuring advanced digital processes and a semi-automated material handling system. Industry experts highlight the need for seamless infrastructure and simplified customs to establish Navi Mumbai as a competitive sea-air hub against established regional players like Dubai and Singapore. While the airport's proximity to JNPA offers potential for efficient cargo movement, challenges such as limited air connectivity and the need for streamlined customs procedures remain. Future expansions include a fully automated terminal and increased freight capacity, positioning Navi Mumbai airport as a pivotal player in India's logistics landscape.
Published: Dec 01 2025, 6 ameznews.inCyclone Ditwah was situated approximately 100 km east-southeast of Cuddalore, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting its center was about 80 km from the North Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts as of Sunday morning. Despite its proximity to land, the cyclone has retained its status, although its lateral movement has slowed since departing Jaffna, Sri Lanka. The cyclone is expected to continue moving northward parallel to the coasts until Monday, with the distance to the storm center decreasing to 30 km. Heavy rainfall has been recorded across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal, particularly in the southern Delta region. The IMD forecasts isolated thunderstorms and rainfall across Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh for the coming days. Wind speeds along the southern Tamil Nadu coast are expected to decrease from gale-force to squally conditions by Monday morning.
Published: Nov 30 2025, 10 pmeznews.inFinance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to introduce the 'Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025' on Monday, aimed at enhancing funding for national security and public health. This new cess is expected to replace the soon-to-be-terminated compensation cess under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on tobacco products. The bill, one of two slated for introduction during the Winter Session, seeks to impose a levy on the manufacturing processes of specified goods, potentially maintaining the effective GST rate on tobacco. The move comes in response to increased funding needs following Operation Sindoor and recommendations from a Parliamentary Panel for a Future Warfare Fund. Additionally, the government is pushing for more health funding, with initiatives like the Ayushman Bharat scheme providing significant health coverage to economically vulnerable families. A second bill will amend the Central Excise Act, 1944, modernizing the law without expanding the tax base.
Published: Nov 30 2025, 8 pmeznews.inGujarat Pipavav Port Ltd. anticipates a year-end performance for container volumes between -2% and 0%, as it grapples with a decline in market share due to US tariff disruptions. The port's Managing Director, Girish Aggarwal, reported a 5% drop in container volumes during the first half of the financial year, with a notable 9% decline in the latest quarter attributed to reduced US-linked cargo. Despite these challenges, the port is experiencing growth in liquids, RoRo, and fertiliser segments, which are becoming key drivers for future expansion. While the Gujarat region saw a 6% growth in the July-September quarter, Pipavav's performance lagged due to its exposure to tariff-affected services. Aggarwal expressed optimism for a slight recovery in container volumes in the upcoming quarters, bolstered by improving sentiment regarding US tariff negotiations.
Published: Nov 30 2025, 6 pmeznews.inIn the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which devastated central Sri Lanka and resulted in nearly 200 fatalities, over 700 Indian passengers stranded in Colombo have begun their return home as flight operations normalize. On Sunday, two Indian Air Force aircraft transported 320 passengers to Hindon and Thiruvananthapuram, while Air India facilitated the return of another 398 to Delhi and Mumbai. Although IndiGo's flights resumed as scheduled, Sri Lankan Airlines expects to restore full operations by midnight. The Indian High Commission has established an emergency help desk at the airport to assist affected travelers. Despite the cyclone's impact, which may temporarily hinder tourism growth, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) is extending visas for affected tourists and ensuring that most tourist destinations remain operational. Hotels are also accommodating guests by waiving cancellation fees and extending stays as needed.
Published: Nov 30 2025, 7 pm
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