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Indian Railways reported a 1.68% increase in freight transportation for the fiscal year 2025, reaching 1,617.38 million tonnes (mt), up from 1,590.68 mt in the previous year. This rise in loading has translated into improved earnings, with revenues climbing to ₹1,75,302.37 crore, a 1.76% increase from ₹1,72,269.83 crore last year. Coal continues to dominate the freight sector, contributing 723.85 mt, including 98.933 mt of imported coal. Other significant commodities include iron ore at 178.121 mt, cement at 86.708 mt, and clinker at 62.635 mt. Additionally, food grains, fertilizers, and mineral oil accounted for 49.77 mt, 59.92 mt, and 50.798 mt, respectively. Container traffic also showed robust performance, with domestic containers at 24.70 mt and export-import (EXIM) containers at 64.03 mt, alongside miscellaneous goods totaling 120.425 mt. 
Published: Apr 01 2025, 9 pmeznews.inIndia's jewellery exports, primarily to the US, are facing significant challenges as the US imposes retaliatory tariffs, exacerbating a 23% decline in exports this fiscal year. The US accounts for nearly 30% of India's $11 billion annual jewellery exports, and the new tariffs could lead to further job losses in this labour-intensive sector. Currently, India imposes a 20% import duty on US jewellery, while the US levies a 10% tariff on Indian imports, creating an uneven playing field compared to competitors like Turkey and the UAE. Industry experts, including Colin Shah of Kama Jewelry, warn that the sector is particularly vulnerable, urging the Indian government to consider lowering tariffs on US goods to balance trade. As gold prices approach $3,200 amid these uncertainties, the future of India's gems and jewellery industry remains precarious until new tariff negotiations are clarified.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 10 ameznews.inThe India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA) has raised concerns over the 26% tariffs imposed by the United States, warning that they could adversely affect domestic industries, particularly in the auto components and electronics sectors. IESA President Ashok Chandak emphasized the need for India to adopt a dual-track approach, balancing negotiations with countermeasures to protect its economic interests. He suggested that negotiating a bilateral trade deal could alleviate some pressure, while adjusting import tariffs on select US goods might address specific concerns. Despite the challenges posed by the tariffs, Chandak noted that India’s competitive tariff rate compared to rivals like Vietnam and China could enhance its position in the US market. He urged the government and industry stakeholders to act swiftly and strategically to navigate these challenges, highlighting the potential for a mutually beneficial agreement as both nations aim to expand bilateral trade to $500 billion.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 10 ameznews.inIn a recent statement, R Uday Bhaskar, former director general of the Pharmaceutical Exports Promotion Council (Pharmexcil), highlighted the ongoing negotiations regarding US tariff policies, suggesting that new decisions cannot be ruled out. Currently, India imposes a 10% tariff on US imports, while Indian pharmaceutical exports to the US enjoy a zero tariff. Although the exemption of Indian pharma from reciprocal tariffs is a positive development, Bhaskar emphasized the need for caution and long-term strategies to ensure the industry's growth. He advocated for diversifying export markets beyond the US to reduce reliance on the US generics market. As negotiations continue, stakeholders in the Indian pharmaceutical sector are urged to remain vigilant about potential changes in US tariff regulations that could impact trade dynamics.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 10 ameznews.inThe Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI) has warned that Indian seafood exports to the US will be significantly impacted by a new 26% reciprocal tariff announced by President Donald Trump, effective April 9, 2025. This places Indian exporters at a disadvantage compared to Ecuador, which will face a lower 10% tariff, potentially allowing it to overtake India as the largest supplier of shrimp to the US. Other countries like Vietnam and Indonesia will face even higher tariffs of 46% and 32%, respectively. Currently, the US accounts for 34% of India's seafood exports, valued at $2.55 billion in 2023-24. The SEAI noted that the increased tariffs could lead to higher global shrimp prices and may also affect Ecuador's supply to China, where 60% of its production is currently directed. The association has called for a waiver on the 30% customs duty on US shrimp imports to mitigate the impact on the Indian seafood industry.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 8 ameznews.inIndia's rice export market is poised for a rebound by June, as competitors like Vietnam and Pakistan deplete their stocks, despite a slow start in the first quarter of 2025. Recent price adjustments have made Indian rice more competitive, with offers for 5% broken white rice dropping over $20 per tonne, while parboiled rice prices fell by $14. Traders note that buyers are currently cautious, holding back on purchases amid fluctuating prices. Pakistan remains competitive for 25% broken rice, aided by a weaker currency and lower freight costs. Thailand anticipates a 30% decline in its rice exports this year, attributing this to India's re-entry into the global market. Following the lifting of export restrictions on broken rice in March, India is expected to solidify its position as a leading exporter, with production projected at 123.82 million tonnes for the 2024-25 season, supported by record stock levels.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 9 ameznews.inThe Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) expressed optimism regarding ongoing bilateral negotiations between India and the US, which they hope will yield a balanced resolution amid rising US automotive tariffs. Following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on April 2, which aims to boost domestic manufacturing, ACMA is awaiting a detailed list of auto components that will face a 25% import tariff. ACMA President Shradha Suri Marwah acknowledged the US administration's intent to address trade imbalances but emphasized the importance of maintaining strong trade relations, particularly in the auto components sector. Saurabh Agarwal, Partner and Automotive Tax Leader at EY India, highlighted the opportunity for India's electric vehicle sector to expand its share in the US market, especially in budget cars, and urged the Indian government to enhance the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to support this growth.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 9 ameznews.inIndia's tariff rate of 26% positions it favorably against competitors like Vietnam (46%), Sri Lanka (44%), Bangladesh (37%), and China (34%) in the US market, according to Prabhu Dhamodharan, Convenor of the Indian Texpreneurs Federation. The recent US reciprocal tariff structure aims to create a level playing field among trade partners, potentially boosting India's textile and apparel exports. With higher tariffs imposed on competing nations, India could enhance its market share in the US, particularly if ongoing trade negotiations yield sector-specific benefits, such as zero-duty imports of cotton. While the US remains India's largest trading partner, the impact of these tariffs on consumer sentiment and retail dynamics will be crucial in shaping export trends. The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) remains optimistic about the ongoing bilateral trade agreement negotiations, which may provide relief from the new tariffs.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 8 ameznews.inAgri Vestors Private Limited has successfully acquired 27.17 crore shares of Nagarjuna Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited (NFCL) from its promoting group, Amlika Mercantile Private Limited, in a transaction valued at ₹4.31 per share. The acquisition, executed on March 28, 2025, was conducted through an open market purchase, resulting in Amlika Mercantile divesting its entire stake in NFCL. Following this transaction, Amlika Mercantile no longer holds any shares in the company, which is publicly listed on both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE). This move marks a significant shift in ownership for NFCL, a key player in the agricultural sector.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 8 ameznews.inUS President Donald Trump has unveiled a new set of reciprocal tariffs, imposing a 26% levy on Indian exports, which could impact sectors like textiles and electronics. However, higher tariffs on competitors such as China (34%), Vietnam (46%), and Bangladesh (37%) may provide Indian exporters with a competitive advantage. Announced during a press conference in the White House Rose Garden, the tariffs are part of Trump's broader strategy to address perceived trade imbalances, with a baseline tariff of 10% on all imports. The US, India's largest trading partner, has a significant trade surplus with India, prompting ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement aimed at reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers. While India seeks to lower tariffs on sensitive items like agriculture, the US is pushing for broader concessions. The new tariffs, effective from April 3, threaten to disrupt global trade dynamics but may also create opportunities for Indian exporters.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 4 ameznews.inIn a significant move to reshape U.S. trade policy, President Donald Trump announced a 10% baseline tariff on imports from all countries, alongside higher rates for nations with trade surpluses with the U.S., during an event in the White House Rose Garden on April 2, 2025. This decision fulfills a key campaign promise aimed at addressing perceived unfair trade practices. Trump emphasized the principle of reciprocity, stating, “Reciprocal means they do it to us and we do it to them.” Economists, however, caution that such tariffs could lead to increased consumer prices, as importers typically pass on costs. The tariffs, set to impact countries like China and Europe, are intended to generate revenue to finance tax cuts, which critics argue disproportionately benefit the wealthy. While Congress retains the authority to regulate tariffs, Trump's administration has increasingly utilized emergency powers to impose these duties, raising concerns about the long-term implications for global trade relations.
Published: Apr 03 2025, 4 am
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