eznews.inIndia is actively negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) with various global partners, including the US and the European Union, as part of efforts to strengthen economic ties, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Speaking at the Ficci annual general meeting, Goyal highlighted the importance of collaborating with "trusted" partners amid rising global trade tensions, particularly following the US's recent imposition of a 50% import duty on Indian goods. Currently, India is in discussions with around 50 countries and groups, including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which comprises six Gulf nations. India has already established a comprehensive trade agreement with the UAE and is nearing completion of talks with Oman. Additionally, negotiations are ongoing with Canada for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) aimed at boosting bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030, while reviews of existing pacts with ASEAN and Korea are also underway. 
Published: Nov 28 2025, 12 pmeznews.inIndia is set to extend the tax holiday for aircraft leasing firms at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) from 10 to 15 years, aiming to capture a larger share of the global leasing market, currently dominated by Ireland. This extension is expected to attract more lessors, as profits typically surge in the later years of an aircraft's leasing cycle, where depreciation costs are minimal. As of January 31, 2023, GIFT City had registered 33 aircraft lessors, facilitating the leasing of over 60 aircraft and engines. The proposed policy change, part of India's upcoming budget proposals, seeks to enhance GIFT City's competitiveness against established financial hubs like Singapore and Hong Kong. The initiative is also expected to benefit local carriers, including IndiGo and Air India, as well as global subsidiaries like Rolls-Royce and Willis Lease Finance.
Published: Nov 28 2025, 12 pmeznews.inMoody's Ratings announced on Friday that India is set to lead economic growth among emerging markets and the Asia Pacific region, projecting a GDP expansion of 7% in 2025 and 6.4% in 2026. The agency highlighted that India's robust domestic growth drivers contribute to its economic resilience amid global uncertainties. Despite a continued weakening of the Indian rupee against the dollar, many rated companies have effective currency risk management strategies and strong financial buffers, allowing investment-grade entities to access international capital markets. Moody's also noted that the average GDP growth in the Asia-Pacific region is expected to remain stable at 3.4% in 2026, slightly up from 3.3% in 2024, while emerging markets will collectively achieve an average growth of 5.6%, significantly outpacing the 1.3% growth anticipated for advanced markets.
Published: Nov 28 2025, 12 pmeznews.inFerocious thunderstorms generated by Cyclone Ditwah are currently affecting Kaveripattinam, Thanjavur, Karaikudi, and Rameswaram along the southeast coast of Tamil Nadu. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'orange message' for north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and parts of south Andhra Pradesh, as the cyclone is located 440 km south-southeast of Puducherry and 540 km south of Chennai. Currently hovering over coastal Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, Ditwah is expected to move north-northwest and may reach the coastal waters off north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry by early Sunday. While the cyclone is forecasted to weaken into a deep depression by Monday, heavy rainfall and high winds are anticipated across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and coastal Andhra Pradesh, with alerts for extremely heavy rain in isolated areas. Rainfall intensity is expected to gradually decrease after the weekend.
Published: Nov 28 2025, 10 ameznews.inDemand for loose tea is expected to surge at Kochi auctions during the ongoing Sabarimala pilgrim season, which has already attracted nearly 1 million devotees since November 16. Traders anticipate a 5-10% increase in tea sales as pilgrims often purchase packet teas on their return journeys. Auctioneers Forbes, Ewart & Figgis reported a robust CTC dust market in Sale 48, with 95% of the 590,741 kg offered sold, primarily to blenders. While primary grades of orthodox dust remained steady, secondary grades saw a decline, attributed to reduced purchases from Iraqi buyers. The CTC leaf market also performed well, achieving a 90% sales rate from 35,000 kg offered. Anil George, Chairman of the Tea Trade Association of Cochin, noted that the heightened demand for both loose and packet teas is expected to continue through mid-January, despite cautious buyer sentiment.
Published: Nov 28 2025, 11 ameznews.inThe Supreme Court of India has raised concerns regarding the disparity in accident insurance coverage for railway passengers, questioning why only those who purchase tickets online are provided with such protection. During a hearing on November 25, Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and K Vinod Chandran directed Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee to clarify the rationale behind this distinction. The court emphasized the need for the Indian Railways to prioritize safety at tracks and crossings, as highlighted in a report submitted by the national transporter. The justices underscored the importance of a comprehensive improvement plan for the railway system. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on January 13, 2026, with the railways required to respond regarding the insurance issue.
Published: Nov 28 2025, 10 ameznews.inA recent survey by consumer finance company Home Credit reveals a significant shift in India's borrowing culture, with individuals increasingly seeking loans to fulfill aspirations rather than merely addressing needs. The study, which surveyed over 3,500 borrowers aged 18-55 across 17 major cities, found that 46% of loans are now taken for purchasing smartphones and home appliances, while 34% are aimed at starting or expanding businesses. The trend towards digital lending is notable, with 51% of respondents preferring online loans, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. Chief Marketing Officer Ashish Tiwari highlighted that this reflects a broader transition towards using credit for success, with women leading in digital financial adoption. However, concerns about data privacy remain, as 56% of borrowers express worries over excessive data collection. Overall, 65% view loans as essential for achieving significant life goals, underscoring the evolving landscape of credit in India.
Published: Nov 28 2025, 10 ameznews.inThe Tamil Nadu government has taken a significant step towards establishing a greenfield international airport in Hosur, identifying approximately 2,300 acres of land in Krishnagiri District for the project. The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Ltd (TIDCO) has issued a call for proposals from consultants to prepare a Detailed Techno Economic Report, which will include an analysis of historical passenger and cargo traffic trends from airports within a 150 km radius over the past 15 years. The proposed airport aims to handle up to 30 million passengers annually and will feature a single runway, dual parallel taxiways, and essential aviation facilities. The consultant will also evaluate the impact of nearby airports, including Bengaluru International Airport, and assist in obtaining necessary statutory clearances. This initiative aligns with the Tamil Nadu government's vision to enhance air connectivity in Tier-2 cities and support regional industrial growth.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 9 pmeznews.inTin prices are projected to remain elevated in 2026, driven by ongoing supply challenges and robust demand from the semiconductor sector, according to analysts. Freddie Mitchell from the International Tin Association noted that while demand is softening towards year-end, supply concerns are paramount. Fitch Solutions' BMI has revised its 2026 price forecast to $35,000 per tonne, up from $32,000, citing tightening ore supplies in China's Yunnan province. Despite a dip in traditional electronics demand, growth in AI computing and semiconductor production is expected to sustain demand. Current three-month tin contracts on the London Metal Exchange are priced at $38,125 per tonne, reflecting a 30% increase this year. However, supply remains precarious due to political instability in Myanmar and Indonesia's export restrictions. While some recovery in Indonesian exports has been noted, the market is advised to adopt a cautious approach amid ongoing uncertainties.
Published: Nov 28 2025, 9 ameznews.inAir India is gearing up for significant fleet and network expansion starting in 2027, with the delivery of 570 new aircraft expected to accelerate. The airline's CEO, Campbell Wilson, revealed that while several domestic and international carriers have expressed interest in utilizing Air India's new training academy, the airline is prioritizing its own operational needs before considering external partnerships. The academy offers a range of training programs, including a cadet pilot course costing around ₹1 crore, which is competitively priced compared to similar facilities abroad. Additionally, the academy provides comprehensive training for cabin crew, ground staff, and management, with a focus on practical applications. Recently, Air India inaugurated an advanced pilot training centre in collaboration with Airbus, featuring two operational simulators for A320 aircraft, with plans to expand to ten. The facility aims to train over 5,000 pilots in the next decade, supporting the airline's future growth.
Published: Nov 27 2025, 8 pm
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