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The United States has clarified to the World Trade Organization (WTO) that its tariffs on steel and aluminium, imposed in March 2018, are based on national security grounds rather than as safeguard measures. This response follows India's request for consultations under the WTO's Safeguards Agreement, which the US contends lacks merit since the tariffs were enacted under Section 232, a national security statute. The US maintains that these tariffs, set at 25% for steel and 10% for aluminium, are not subject to the safeguards provisions of the Trade Act of 1974, and thus, India's request for consultations is unfounded. Despite this, the US expressed willingness to engage in discussions with India on the matter. The tariffs were revised in February 2025, extending their duration indefinitely, and are justified under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994 security exception. 
Published: Apr 18 2025, 10 ameznews.inIndia has made a significant advancement in agricultural exports by shipping 14 tonnes of pomegranates to the United States via sea for the first time, as announced by the commerce ministry on Saturday. This move marks a departure from the traditional air freight method, with the industry now opting for a more cost-effective and sustainable sea-freight option. The shipment, which consisted of 4,620 boxes of pomegranates, successfully reached the US East Coast last month. This development follows the US granting market access for Indian pomegranates during the 2023 season, highlighting a growing trend in agricultural trade between the two nations. The shift to sea transport not only reduces costs but also aligns with global sustainability efforts in food logistics.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 12 pmeznews.inIn a significant development for commuters in Chennai, the Southern Railway's Chennai Division launched its first air-conditioned suburban train service on Saturday, connecting Chennai Beach to Chengalpattu. This new AC EMU service is anticipated to attract a high number of passengers, particularly during peak hours and in the sweltering heat. Following the successful model established in Mumbai, the service aims to cater to office-goers and women travelers, offering modern amenities such as automatic doors, passenger information systems, and CCTV surveillance. The inaugural train departed Chennai Beach at 7 am, with services running in both directions, except on Sundays. The fare for the journey between Chennai Beach and Chengalpattu is set at ₹105, marking a welcome addition to the city's public transport options.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 12 pmeznews.inIndia's E5-D programme aims to enhance sustainability in diesel usage by initiating a nationwide 5% ethanol-diesel blending initiative, particularly leveraging the existing infrastructure of the struggling sugar sector. With over 500 sugar mills capable of ethanol production, the government seeks to alleviate financial distress caused by stagnant ethanol prices while promoting biofuel adoption and reducing reliance on costly fossil fuel imports. The programme will begin with pilot phases in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, allowing for real-world testing of blending standards and fuel performance. This initiative aligns with India's broader energy goals, including a roadmap for 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025 and a commitment to net-zero emissions by 2070. By integrating ethanol into diesel, the government not only addresses a significant emission source but also supports rural economies and farmer welfare, positioning the sugar industry as a key player in India's transition to a bioenergy-based economy.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 10 ameznews.inAt the 15th BRICS Agriculture Ministers meeting in Brazil, Indian Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the critical need to prioritize small and marginal farmers in global agricultural strategies. He warned that these farmers cannot tackle challenges such as climate change, price volatility, and resource scarcity without substantial policy support. Chouhan highlighted that agriculture is not just an economic activity but a vital source of livelihood and dignity for millions. He proposed cluster-based farming, farmer producer organizations, and cooperative models as effective means to empower small farmers and enhance their market access. The meeting also saw the launch of the "BRICS Land Restoration Partnership" to combat land degradation and soil fertility loss. In their Joint Declaration, BRICS nations pledged to create a fair and sustainable global agri-food system, focusing on food security and the empowerment of women and youth. Chouhan invited BRICS countries to engage in upcoming global events to foster innovation and collaboration.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 10 ameznews.inThe Indian agricultural sector, vital for food security and livelihoods, faces significant challenges, including climate change and market volatility. To address these issues, leveraging technological innovations is crucial, particularly through the Digital Public Infrastructure known as AgriStack. This framework aims to enhance agricultural data management, enabling better research, policymaking, and resource allocation. AgriStack fosters collaborative partnerships between public and private sectors, improving access to financial services for farmers, including credit and insurance products. By integrating advanced technologies like blockchain and AI, AgriStack can streamline financial processes and enhance transparency. However, successful implementation requires effective change management, including building trust with farmers and improving financial literacy. The anticipated impact of AgriStack is expected to be transformative, akin to the Aadhaar initiative, as it empowers the agricultural community and drives innovation in financial services tailored to their needs.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 9 ameznews.inIn India, where 98% of coffee farms are smallholder-run, the coffee industry is undergoing a significant transformation amid a volatile global market. While India contributes only 3% to global coffee production, it is increasingly recognized for its specialty coffee, particularly from estates like Poomaale in Kodagu. Global coffee consumption reached 170 million 60-kg bags in 2023, with rising demand for sustainably sourced products. However, price fluctuations—ranging from $1.00/lb in 2020 to $2.25/lb in 2022—pose challenges for small farmers, who often lack control over pricing. Poomaale's regenerative farming practices, which focus on biodiversity and soil health, allow it to process and market its own specialty-grade Robusta, insulating it from market volatility. As urban Indian consumers seek ethically sourced coffee, this model not only enhances economic resilience but also fosters community connections, illustrating a shift from commodity to community in the coffee sector.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 9 ameznews.inThe Income Tax Department announced on Friday that startups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) are eligible for various tax exemptions and deductions under the Income Tax Act, 1961. Investments in these compliant startups, which must file a declaration in Form-2, will not be subject to scrutiny, according to a post on X. However, investments in companies that do not meet the required conditions may be examined based on the department's risk management strategy. This announcement follows the government's 2019 decision to relax the definition of startups, allowing them to benefit from full angel tax concessions on investments up to ₹25 crore. The department emphasized that these measures aim to encourage investment in recognized startups while ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
Published: Apr 19 2025, 9 ameznews.inIndia's goods exports remained stagnant at $437.4 billion in FY2025, impacted by a global economic slowdown and reciprocal tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump. In response, the Commerce Department is expediting the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) clearance for a new export promotion mission, backed by an annual budget of ₹2,240 crore. This initiative aims to support exporters, particularly in the MSME sector, through schemes like interest equalisation and market promotion funds. The mission seeks a five-year term to ensure stability amid global uncertainties, with plans to reinstate the popular interest equalisation scheme, which was discontinued in December. Exporters are advocating for a 5% interest subvention, up from the previous 3%, to level the playing field. Additionally, the mission will address collateral challenges faced by MSMEs and will incorporate the Market Access Initiative to enhance export opportunities.
Published: Apr 18 2025, 9 pmeznews.inTruJet, formerly known as Turbo Megha Airways, has applied to the Indian government for permission to resume operations after ceasing flights in February 2022 due to financial difficulties stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic. The regional low-cost airline, which operated from Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport from 2015 to 2022, is seeking to renew its No Objection Certificate from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and plans to restart services with ATR turboprop aircraft by August-September 2025. TruJet aims to participate in the government's UDAN scheme to enhance regional connectivity and is also considering the acquisition of second-hand Airbus A320 aircraft to expand its domestic network. The airline has reportedly secured financial backing from new investors and plans to invest ₹100 crore to support its initial operations, which will create around 600 jobs. India's domestic passenger traffic has shown significant growth, further encouraging TruJet's revival efforts.
Published: Apr 18 2025, 7 pmeznews.inIndia's e-commerce sector stands to gain from the US decision to end duty-free imports of goods valued under $800 from China and Hong Kong, effective May 2. This change, which has previously bolstered Chinese companies like Shein and Temu, may create opportunities for Indian exporters, particularly in customized products such as handicrafts and fashion. Amazon's Global Selling program aims to help Indian MSMEs reach global markets, with projections indicating that e-commerce exports could exceed $13 billion by the end of 2024. However, challenges remain, as India's trade infrastructure primarily supports larger exporters, leaving small online sellers facing bureaucratic hurdles. Experts emphasize the need for better education and support for Indian exporters, akin to the assistance provided to Chinese sellers. While the long-term outlook is optimistic, immediate competition with China's established e-commerce giants may prove difficult due to scale and operational expertise disparities.
Published: Apr 18 2025, 7 pm
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