Trending Economy

Listen as Radio

June's heavy rain threatens Indian coffee crops, growers warn

Coffee growers in Karnataka's Kodagu region are facing significant challenges due to the early onset of black rot disease in Arabica coffee, attributed to excessive rainfall during June, the first month of the monsoon season. Continuous precipitation has hindered timely plant protection measures, raising concerns about potential crop losses for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The Indian Meteorological Department has forecasted above-normal monsoon conditions, with Karnataka experiencing a 10% increase in rainfall from June 1 to July 1. While Chikmagaluru saw a 41% surplus, other districts like Hassan reported deficits. Additionally, the robusta variety is also affected by fruit rot. The United States Department of Agriculture has projected a 2.4% decline in India's coffee production for the 2025-26 season, estimating output at 6.05 million bags, down from 6.2 million bags in the previous year. Local authorities are urged to assess the damage as the rainy season continues. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 8 am

India's tyre exports grow 9% to ₹25,051 cr in FY25

In a press conference in Kochi, Arun Mammen, Chairman of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA), announced a 9% increase in India's tyre exports, reaching ₹25,051 crore in FY25, up from ₹23,073 crore the previous year. This growth is attributed to significant investments, robust manufacturing, and focused research and development, despite challenges such as trade policy uncertainties and global supply chain disruptions. Mammen highlighted that the tyre industry has invested approximately ₹27,000 crore in recent years, reflecting confidence in India's economic future. He noted that Indian tyres are exported to over 170 countries, with a strong presence in the US and Europe. However, the industry faces challenges, including reliance on imported natural rubber, which constitutes 40% of its requirements. To address this, ATMA has launched Project INROAD, aiming to cultivate 2 lakh hectares of rubber plantations with ₹1,100 crore in funding from member companies. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 5 pm

Global avocado exports could exceed 3 million tonnes by 2027

The global avocado market has surpassed $20 billion, with exports projected to exceed 3 million tonnes by 2026-27, a significant increase from 1 million tonnes in 2012-13, according to Rabobank's ‘Global Avocado Update 2025’. This growth is largely attributed to Mexico, Peru, and Colombia, which together account for nearly two-thirds of exports. However, rising competition from new avocado-producing nations is pressuring profit margins. The US remains the largest importer, with strong demand expected to continue, although proposed tariffs could impact prices. Meanwhile, South American exports are anticipated to exceed 1 million tonnes, led by Peru, while Europe maintains robust demand despite price pressures from increased shipments. Australia and New Zealand are also set to boost production. Experts highlight the need for strategic marketing and consumer education to sustain growth and tap into emerging markets in Asia and beyond. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 5 pm

South Central Railway achieves ₹5,219 cr revenue in Q1 FY26

Freight loading for the South Central Railway (SCR) reached a record 37.41 million tonnes in the first quarter of the 2025-26 financial year, marking a 4% increase from 35.89 million tonnes in the same period last year. This surge was driven by heightened transport of coal, cement, and iron ore. Additionally, SCR reported gross originating revenue of ₹5,219 crore, a 1.2% rise from ₹5,156 crore in the previous year, with freight revenue contributing ₹3,457.33 crore and passenger revenue at ₹1,485.21 crore, up 2% from ₹1,455.15 crore. The zone has focused on diversifying its freight offerings and enhancing passenger services, operating 865 special train trips that served over 1.1 million passengers. General Manager Sandeep Mathur praised the team's efforts and urged continued excellence to sustain this momentum throughout the financial year. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 4 pm

India's June transport fuel use declines; jet fuel down 5.5%

India's consumption of key transport fuels—diesel, petrol, and jet fuel—experienced a decline in June 2025 following record highs in May, primarily due to early monsoon rains that affected mobility, particularly in the latter half of the month. According to the Petroleum Planning & Analysis Cell (PPAC), diesel consumption fell by 5.72% month-on-month to approximately 8.08 million tonnes, although it rose 1.24% year-on-year. Petrol usage dropped 6.88% to around 3.51 million tonnes, yet increased by 6.43% compared to the previous year. Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) saw a 5.55% month-on-month decline to 732,000 tonnes, but was up 3.54% year-on-year. Analysts noted that despite the dip, fuel consumption remained robust, driven by industrial activity, personal vehicle purchases, and pre-monsoon stocking. A report from the PHDCCI projected a 5.37% annual growth rate in demand for refined petroleum products in India through 2030, largely fueled by the manufacturing and transportation sectors. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 3 pm

India's June palm oil imports soar 61%, reach 11-month peak

India's palm oil imports surged to an 11-month high in June, reaching 953,000 metric tons, a 61% increase from the previous month, driven by lower domestic stocks and competitive pricing compared to soy and sunflower oils. This rise in imports is expected to alleviate stock levels in major producers Indonesia and Malaysia, while also supporting Malaysian palm oil futures. Sandeep Bajoria, CEO of Sunvin Group, noted that palm oil is now nearly $100 per ton cheaper than its rivals, contributing to its regained market share. In contrast, soyoil imports fell by 9% to 363,000 tons, while sunflower oil imports rose by 18% to 216,000 tons. Overall, India's total edible oil imports climbed 30% in June to 1.53 million tons, the highest since November. Analysts predict continued strong demand for palm oil in the coming months due to favorable pricing and increased production in key exporting countries. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 3 pm

Containers boost APSEZ's cargo volume by 11% in Q1 FY26

In a recent stock market update, the SENSEX closed at 83,256.57, down by 440.72 points, while the NIFTY fell by 138.40 points to settle at 25,403.40. In commodities, crude oil prices saw a slight increase of 4.00, reaching 5,619.00, while silver prices dropped by 309.00 to 105,638.00. Meanwhile, Adani Port and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) reported a robust performance for the first quarter of the financial year 2025-26, with total cargo volumes hitting 120.6 million tonnes, an 11% year-on-year increase. The surge was primarily driven by a 19% rise in container volumes. In June alone, cargo volumes reached 41.3 million tonnes, marking a 12% growth, while logistics rail volumes also saw a 15% increase, totaling 179,479 TEUs. The company’s performance reflects a positive trend in the logistics sector amid fluctuating market conditions. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 2 pm

Government to sell 6-7 million tonnes of wheat in August

The Indian government is set to initiate wheat sales under the Open Market Sales Scheme (OMSS) from August, with plans to auction 6-7 million tonnes by March 31, 2026, at a reserve price of ₹2,550 per quintal, excluding transport costs. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) will determine the quantity and timing of sales, ensuring that sufficient stocks are reserved for the Public Distribution System (PDS) and buffer norms. Currently, the government has procured 300.35 lakh tonnes of wheat, surpassing last year's figures, resulting in a total stock of over 365 lakh tonnes. Despite a bumper harvest, demand for OMSS wheat may be lower this year, as many flour millers have adequate supplies for the next few months. Additionally, the committee of secretaries has restricted sales to private millers for retail, allowing only cooperatives and NGOs to purchase wheat at the fixed rate. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 2 pm

Gold's Bull Run Since 2019 Declared Over by Analysts

Gold prices have experienced a remarkable rally since 2019, with returns exceeding 30% in 2024 and 2025, but signs of "market fatigue" are emerging, according to Motilal Oswal Wealth Management (MOWM). The firm noted that the drivers behind the rally are now reflected in current prices, suggesting a potential end to the upward trend. BMI, a Fitch Solutions unit, echoed this sentiment, maintaining a 2025 gold price forecast of $3,100 per ounce while remaining neutral in the short term. JP Morgan Research predicts prices could rise to $3,675 by late 2025 and approach $4,000 by mid-2026, driven by recession fears and trade risks. Despite geopolitical tensions, gold prices have shown resilience, averaging $3,074 this year. Analysts suggest that fresh catalysts are needed for further price increases, with potential downside risks bringing prices closer to $3,000 in the near future. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 1 pm

SBI contributes 1.1% to India's 6.7% global growth share

A recent report by SBI Research highlights India's significant contribution to the global economy, noting that the country accounted for approximately 6.7% of the world's incremental GDP growth in FY25, adding $297 billion to the global total of $4,118 billion. The State Bank of India (SBI) played a crucial role in this achievement, contributing 1.1% of the global GDP increase, equivalent to $44 billion, and representing about 16% of India's GDP growth for the fiscal year. SBI's gross value added to the financial services sector reached ₹1,38,533 crore, reflecting a 5% year-on-year increase. This underscores SBI's pivotal position not only within India's economic framework but also in the broader global context, as its performance rivals that of some smaller economies. The report emphasizes India's rising importance as a key player in global economic growth. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 12 pm

Kharif Sowing Surge Signals Positive Inflation Outlook for 2025

Monsoon rainfall in India gained momentum in late June, following a deficit in the first half of the month, according to a report by ICICI Bank. The overall rainfall for June reached 109% of the Long Period Average (LPA), slightly exceeding the Indian Meteorological Department's forecast of 108%. This improvement has positively impacted Kharif sowing, which has seen an 11.3% year-on-year increase, driven primarily by a 47.3% rise in rice sowing and a 37.2% increase in pulses. While several key agricultural states, including Rajasthan and Gujarat, reported above-average rainfall, some regions like Bihar and Andhra Pradesh faced deficits. Notably, only 10 out of 36 meteorological subdivisions recorded deficient rainfall by the end of June, a significant improvement from last year. Looking ahead, July is expected to bring favorable rainfall, further supporting Kharif sowing and enhancing the agricultural outlook for the year. sources

Published:
Jul 02 2025, 11 am

For the fastest, latest, not so wokest news, 'experts say' you need to visit Eznews

End of news stories. Come back in an hour!