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India and Chile have taken a significant step towards enhancing their economic ties by signing terms of reference (ToRs) to negotiate a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA). This initiative builds on the existing preferential trade agreement (PTA) established in 2006, which was expanded in 2016. The CEPA aims to broaden the scope of cooperation to include sectors such as digital services, investment promotion, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Both nations are keen to unlock the full potential of their trade relationship, which is expected to boost employment and facilitate investment. The ToRs were signed by Chile's Ambassador to India, Juan Angulo, and Vimal Anand, Joint Secretary in India's Ministry of Commerce. The first round of negotiations is scheduled for May 26-30, 2025, in New Delhi, marking a pivotal moment in bilateral relations. 
Published: May 09 2025, 12 pmeznews.inThe Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) has urged Indian farmers to adopt pest and disease-resistant sugarcane varieties and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to combat rising infestations, particularly red rot and top borer attacks that have affected yields. In its recommendations for the 2025-26 sugarcane price policy, the CACP highlighted the need for awareness campaigns to promote these practices and address the significant gap in quality seed cane availability, which impacts productivity and profitability. The government has raised the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) for sugarcane to ₹355 per quintal, while the CACP also called for the establishment of Custom Hiring Centers to facilitate access to machinery for farmers. Additionally, it recommended discontinuing the State Advised Price (SAP) system, which distorts markets and burdens sugar mills, advocating instead for a shift to the FRP or Revenue Sharing Formula to ensure fair compensation for farmers.
Published: May 09 2025, 3 pmeznews.inIn 2024, the United States solidified its position as India's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $129 billion. In a bid to enhance trade relations, India has proposed reducing its tariff gap with the US from nearly 13% to below 4%, seeking an exemption from potential tariff hikes announced by President Trump. This significant reduction would lower the average tariff differential by 9 percentage points, marking a major shift in trade policy for the world's fifth-largest economy. India is also negotiating preferential access for nearly 90% of US imports, while requesting concessions in key sectors such as gems, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, India aims to align its treatment in critical technology sectors with that of other US allies. A delegation of Indian officials is expected to visit the US soon to advance these negotiations, although details remain confidential.
Published: May 09 2025, 3 pmeznews.inIn the latest tea auctions in Kochi, Kerala, the orthodox leaf market experienced a notable surge in demand, particularly from Iraqi buyers, leading to an average price increase of ₹5 per kg, reaching ₹205. The auction saw 86% of the 301,204 kg offered sold, as traders noted that rising prices in Sri Lanka prompted Iraqi buyers to seek more affordable South Indian varieties. Additionally, upcountry buyers increased their purchases due to higher second flush prices in Assam, while exporters targeted markets in CIS countries and the Middle East. However, concerns linger over potential shipment delays due to escalating tensions along the Indo-Pak border. In contrast, the CTC leaf market remained stable, though the CTC dust market saw a decline of ₹2 to ₹4, with a sales percentage of 77% from 716,204 kg offered. The orthodox dust market, however, remained robust, achieving 100% sales from 8,300 kg.
Published: May 09 2025, 3 pmeznews.inThe potential of green hydrogen in sectors like transport and steel is significant, yet its development is hindered by high costs, according to a report by SBI CAPS. The report highlights that while green hydrogen could see an incremental demand of 2-5 million tonnes by 2030, current production costs remain a barrier, with green hydrogen priced at approximately ₹300 per kg compared to ₹150 for grey hydrogen. The Indian government’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in 2023, aims to produce 5 million tonnes annually by 2030, supported by a budget of ₹19,744 crore and the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme, which seeks to reduce costs. However, achieving viability requires significant reductions in power costs and enhanced efficiency in electrolyser technology. With India's hydrogen demand primarily met by grey hydrogen, the mission also aims to reduce reliance on imported natural gas, as traditional sectors face limited growth.
Published: May 09 2025, 2 pmeznews.inIndia Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) is intensifying its focus on green financing, with Managing Director P.R. Jaishankar highlighting a significant influx of private investment in the sector. IIFCL has achieved record financial performance for five consecutive years, attributed to a robust strategy emphasizing risk management and cost-effective resource allocation. The company has introduced innovative financial products and advocated for policy improvements to enhance infrastructure financing. Currently, non-banking financial institutions dominate infrastructure lending, holding over 50% market share, while Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) are facilitating project monetization and liquidity. Despite the government's increased capital expenditure, private sector response remains lukewarm, partly due to the absence of a green premium for bonds. Jaishankar noted that evolving regulations and rating methodologies are expected to attract more investors. While IIFCL is exploring growth opportunities, plans for an IPO remain unconfirmed.
Published: May 09 2025, 12 pmeznews.inDeendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat, resumed operations on Friday morning after a five-hour shutdown due to heightened security concerns, as confirmed by officials from the Deendayal Port Authority (DPA). The port, strategically located near the Pakistan border and handling both liquid and bulk cargo, ceased operations at 1:30 am, coinciding with a temporary blackout. Currently operating under Level 2 security, officials warned that any further shutdowns could significantly delay vessel turnaround times. Nearby Mundra Port continued its operations without interruption, with a spokesperson affirming compliance with government directives. Gujarat's port infrastructure, including at least seven Single Point Moorings (SPMs) for crude oil handling, maintains a cumulative capacity of 104 million metric tonnes per year. The Gujarat Maritime Board has confirmed that all ports are functioning with heightened security measures in place.
Published: May 09 2025, 10 ameznews.inCivilian flight operations have been suspended at 24 airports across India, including Kishangarh, Bhuntar, and Ludhiana, following heightened tensions with Pakistan. This decision comes after the Indian armed forces launched missile strikes on terrorist targets in Pakistan on May 7, 2025, leading to the cancellation of over 400 flights as a precautionary measure. Airports affected include Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Chandigarh, with a revised Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued to cover the impacted Flight Information Regions. While Delhi's IGI Airport reported normal operations, some flights were still affected due to changing airspace conditions. The escalation in hostilities saw Pakistan launching missile and drone attacks on multiple sites in India, prompting a robust response from Indian air defense systems, which neutralized several incursions and downed two Pakistani jets. The situation remains tense along the international border and the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
Published: May 09 2025, 1 ameznews.inIn response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the central government has implemented heightened security measures at airports and heliports nationwide, effective from May 8 to May 18, 2025. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has mandated enhanced surveillance, full operational status of CCTV systems, and the deployment of in-flight security officers. Airports are required to conduct thorough checks of passenger and cargo manifests, perform comprehensive searches of aircraft, and implement strict monitoring of drones and microlight aircraft. Additionally, BCAS has prohibited visitor access to terminal buildings, allowing only government officials with operational needs. Air India has advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before their flights, while IndiGo has recommended allowing extra time for security procedures. These measures aim to bolster safety amid rising security concerns.
Published: May 09 2025, 2 ameznews.inIndia has raised the security level at all its ports, terminals, and ships from MARSEC Level 1 to Level 2 amid escalating tensions with Pakistan and increasing attacks from the neighboring country. This advisory, issued on May 8, 2025, mandates enhanced protective measures to address the heightened risk of security incidents, requiring compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. Key actions include increased surveillance, stricter access controls, and unannounced security drills to assess preparedness. Additionally, port facilities must review their IT and communication systems to mitigate the risk of cyberattacks, a growing concern for the maritime sector. The directive emphasizes the urgency of compliance, warning that breaches will be taken seriously. It has been circulated to various stakeholders, including Port Facility Security Officers and the Indian National Shipowners’ Association, for immediate implementation.
Published: May 09 2025, 8 am
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