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Category: Business Trends

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India–UAE CEPA Doubles Bilateral Trade in Just Three Years

The India–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed on February 18, 2022 and enforced from May 1, 2022, has emerged as a strategic game-changer in India’s global trade policy.
In just three years, bilateral trade between the two nations has doubled, reaffirming the CEPA as one of India’s most impactful free trade agreements to date — and a blueprint for future economic partnerships in the Middle East and beyond.

Why It Matters for Trade & Logistics:

  • Bilateral non-oil trade has surged, putting India on track to hit the USD 100 billion target well ahead of schedule.
  • Tariff and non-tariff barriers have been substantially reduced, simplifying customs clearance and expediting cargo movement.
  • Easier market access for Indian exporters, especially in sectors like textiles, gems & jewellery, engineering goods, and food products.
  • UAE serves as a strategic gateway for Indian businesses to enter Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), African, and European markets.
  • UAE investments are flowing into Indian infrastructure, logistics, fintech, and renewable energy — powering India’s domestic growth engine.
  • Job creation opportunities in logistics, warehousing, and shipping are expected to rise on both sides as trade volume increases.
  • Enhanced cooperation in services includes cross-border fintech, education, health, and e-commerce.

Strategic Takeaway:

The CEPA is more than a trade agreement — it’s a catalyst for regional integration, global supply chain diversification, and economic diplomacy. For logistics professionals, it opens up new corridors of opportunity and efficiency, particularly in cross-border freight, port partnerships, and trade facilitation tech.
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India’s Palm Oil Imports Surge 87% in May — Biggest Jump in Six Months!

India’s demand for palm oil roared back to life in May 2025, with imports skyrocketing 87% compared to April, hitting 600,000 metric tons — the highest monthly volume since November 2024.
The reason? Lower inventories at home and palm oil’s newly regained price edge over soy and sunflower oils,prompting Indian refiners to ramp up their buying sharply.
This surge could have ripple effects beyond India — possibly boosting Malaysian palm oil prices and supporting U.S. soy oil futures, say market watchers.

Why the Sudden Spike?

  • Palm oil turned cheaper than soy oil after months of trading at a premium.
  • Part of Odisha’s plan to become a global agri-export hub
  • Competitive pricing brought Indian buyers back to palm oil in a big way.

“Palm oil’s discount changed everything — buyers have switched back fast,” says Rajesh Patel of GGN Research.

Other Edible Oil Movements

  • Soy oil imports climbed 10% month-on-month to 398,000 tons — the highest since January.
  • Sunflower oil imports inched up 2% to 184,000 tons.
Combined, these lifted India’s total edible oil imports by 37% to 1.18 million tons in May — the highest volume since December 2024.

Key Highlights at a Glance

  • Palm Oil Imports: 600,000 tons (+87%) — 6-month high
  • Soy Oil Imports: 398,000 tons (+10%) — 5-month high
  • Sunflower Oil Imports: 184,000 tons (+2%)
  • Total Edible Oil Imports: 1.18 million tons (+37%) — highest since Dec 2024
  • India’s Edible Oil Stocks: Down to 1.35 million tons — lowest since July 2020
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India & Japan Chart New Course in Maritime Collaboration: Focus on Shipyards, Green Ports & Digitisation

In a landmark step to strengthen maritime ties, India and Japan have opened fresh chapters of cooperation spanning shipbuilding, port digitisation, and green port initiatives. The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, met with Mr. Terada Yoshimichi, Japan’s Vice Minister for International Affairs (MLITT), during the ongoing Oslo meet, aiming to unlock mutual opportunities in the fast-evolving maritime sector.

What’s on the table?

  • Japanese Investment in Indian Shipyards:

India has invited top Japanese shipbuilding giants like Imabari Shipbuilding, JMUC, Kanagawa Dockyard, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to explore investments and JVs with Indian yards—including potential greenfield projects such as Imabari’s planned presence in Andhra Pradesh.

  • Port Digitisation & Smart Infrastructure:
Plans include joint efforts in port automation, digitisation, and smart logistics platforms, which will boost efficiency and transparency across the Indo-Japanese maritime corridor.
  • Green Port & Clean Energy Hubs:
Both nations are exploring co-development of clean energy maritime clusters, including sustainable port infrastructure and disaster-resilient technologies to transform the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands into Smart Islands.
  • Seafarer Training & Human Resource Upskilling:
Japan expressed keen interest in training and employing Indian seafarers, while India emphasised the importance of bilateral cooperation in maritime education and R&D.
  • Research & Development Collaboration:
The meeting also focused on setting up an MoU framework involving Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Indian universities, and public agencies to develop next-generation ship designs and sustainable marine technologies.

Why it matters:

“Japan’s global expertise in shipbuilding and repair, coupled with India’s fast-growing maritime sector, presents a win-win scenario for both nations. This collaboration will not only drive investments but also make our port infrastructure greener, smarter, and future-ready,” said Mr. Sonowal.

Meanwhile, Mr. Yoshimichi reaffirmed Japan’s interest in expanding its long-standing railway cooperation with India into the maritime space—laying the groundwork for a broader Indo-Japanese economic partnership.

Quick Highlights:

  • Japanese shipyard investments eyed for Andhra Pradesh & beyond
  • Smart Port Digitisation collaboration underway
  • Plans for Green Port & clean energy industrial hubs
  • Mutual interest in seafarer training, R&D, and next-gen ship design
  • Possibility of Cochin Shipyard-led innovation partnerships
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India-UK FTA to Boost Gem & Jewellery Exports from $400 Mn to $1 Bn: GJEPC

India’s gem and jewellery sector is set for a major boost as the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) nears finalization. The deal aims to scrap 99% of tariffs on Indian goods, unlocking new growth potential in one of India’s key export markets.

According to the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), exports to the UK are expected to grow from $400 million to $1 billion, with total exports likely to reach $2.5 billion within two years post-FTA.

Why This Matters:

  • Tariff barriers removed: 99% of duties on Indian jewellery exports to be eliminated.
  • Gold & Diamond jewellery will lead the surge — UK market demand remains strong in these categories.
  • Silver jewellery & coloured gemstones emerge as new growth segments for exporters.
  • Big win for emerging brands and start-ups — offering a gateway into the UK market.
  • Exporters are intensifying market research and product alignment to match UK consumer tastes.

Challenges to Watch:

  • Stringent UK hallmarking and documentation standards remain a barrier for first-time exporters.
  • New and small players will need advisory support, certifications, and distribution partnerships to compete effectively.
  • Without strong industry backing, regulatory complexity may slow adoption for fresh market entrants.

Quick Snapshot:

Metric

Current

Post-FTA Target

India’s Jewellery Exports to UK

$400 Mn

$1 Bn

Total Gem & Jewellery Exports

–

$2.5 Bn (2 years)

Industry Takeaway:

A golden opportunity — but only for those prepared to meet the UK’s high standards. Indian exporters must blend creativity with compliance to unlock this market’s full potential.

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India-UK Free Trade Deal to Slash Textile Export Duties, Unlocking New Growth Opportunities

A landmark shift is on the horizon for Indian textile exporters as the proposed India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to eliminate import duties—currently as high as 12%—on textile shipments to the UK. According to a report by India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra), this move is expected to unlock major growth opportunities for India’s textile sector, especially in apparel and home furnishings.

Why It Matters:

With zero-duty access to the UK market, Indian exporters will gain a competitive edge over rivals like China and Bangladesh, particularly as these countries continue to face trade barriers, including U.S. tariffs.

Key Takeaways :

  • Zero Import Duty: Indian textile products will no longer face up to 12% tariffs in the UK, making them more price-competitive.
  • Potential Market Gain : India could capture an additional ₹45–70 billion (USD 500–800 million) in exports if it increases its UK market share by just 2–3%.
  • Current Export Snapshot :
  • India’s total textile exports (FY24): USD 35 billion
  • Exports to the UK: USD 1.9 billion (5th largest destination)
  • Sectoral Boost:
  • Apparel and home textiles are expected to benefit the most.
  • Apparel alone accounts for over 70% of China’s and 98% of Bangladesh’s textile exports to the UK, categories India is now poised to compete more effectively.
  • Limited Drawbacks : UK imports into India are minimal, so domestic manufacturers are unlikely to be adversely affected.
  • Strategic Advantage : India’s improved access comes as global rivals face trade restrictions, enhancing India’s appeal in international sourcing strategies.

What This Means for the Industry:

The FTA could be a game-changer, positioning India not just as a cost-effective supplier but as a reliable, duty-free source for high-quality textiles. It strengthens India’s global trade footprint and supports long-term growth by breaking down critical trade barriers.
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Russia Targets Long-Term Coal Partnership with India Amid Massive Reserve Expansion

Russia is positioning itself as a long-term coal supplier to India, backed by an astonishing reserve capacity that could sustain global demand for over 500 years, according to Russian Energy Ministry officials.
Speaking on the future of the coal industry, Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Alexander Novak highlighted that Russia is rapidly developing next-generation, eco-friendly coal mining hubs. These advanced facilities are expected to add 250 million tonnes of production capacity by 2025 alone.
“Russia sees India as a key strategic partner in energy cooperation,” Novak said in the latest issue of Energy Policy magazine. “Our countries can build a strong, reliable energy corridor that benefits both economies.”
In 2024, Russia produced 443.5 million tonnes of coal, with nearly 196.2 million tonnes destined for export, making it one of the top coal exporters to India by volume.
Looking ahead, Novak envisions a coal sector transformed by innovation. “By 2050, the industry will consist of high-tech, environmentally compliant enterprises that meet the demands of a sustainable future,” he noted.
With vast reserves and modern infrastructure investments, Russia’s energy ambitions could play a key role in powering India’s growing energy needs.
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South African Citrus Exports to India Triple to 30,000 Tons

South Africa’s seedless citrus fruits—especially oranges and mandarins—are enjoying a surge in popularity in India, with exports tripling over the past five years. Backed by smart logistics strategies and growing consumer demand, the Indo-African fruit trade is entering a juicy new chapter.
South Africa exported 30,000 tons of citrus to India in 2024, up from 10,000 tons in 2019, capitalizing on demand for easy-peel, vitamin-rich fruits during India’s offseason.
However, challenges remain—from steep tariffs to cold treatment regulations. Yet, logistics players are rising to the occasion, creating efficient supply chains and unlocking the potential of the India–South Africa fresh produce corridor.

Key Highlights:

  • Export Growth:
Citrus exports from South Africa to India surged from 10,000 tons in 2019 to 30,000 tons in 2024.
  • Peak Season Advantage:
South Africa’s citrus season (June–October) avoids direct competition with India’s (November–March).
  • Consumer Demand:
Rising middle-class income and a focus on health drive demand for premium, seedless citrus rich in vitamin C.
  • Price Challenges:
A 30% import duty and restrictions on in-transit cold treatment inflate costs and risk product quality.
  • Regulatory Developments:
India and South Africa are in talks to harmonize cold treatment protocols, potentially allowing in-transit processes and reducing spoilage.
  • Logistics Response:
Providers are investing in:
  • Temperature-controlled shipping
  • Fast customs clearance
  • Domestic distribution networks via key ports (Nhava Sheva, Chennai)
  • Urban Demand Centers:
Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru are driving the trend toward high-quality imported fruits.
  • Future Outlook:
With improved policies and logistics innovations, exports could exceed 50,000 tons in the next few years.
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Steel on the Move: India’s April Exports Climb 12% YoY Amid EU Surge

India’s steel exports saw a strong year-on-year rise in April 2025, even as month-on-month figures showed slight softness. Here’s a quick snapshot of the developments:

Key Highlights:

  • Total steel exports (including stainless steel) reached 725.54 thousand tons in April — up 11.7% YoY, but down 2.7% MoM.
  • Exports to the EU surged by 33% MoM to over 358 thousand tons, the highest in 13 months, thanks to renewed EU import quotas.
  • Shipments to the US and Saudi Arabia fell, as Indian producers redirected supplies to the EU and other regions.
  • Flat steel products exports rose slightly to 556.5 thousand tons (+1% MoM), marking the highest since March 2024.
  • Semi-finished steel exports climbed by 30% MoM to 78.64 thousand tons.
  • Hot-rolled coil (non-stainless) exports dropped by 12% MoM, totaling 130.6 thousand tons.
  • Long product exports plunged by 32% MoM to 90.4 thousand tons.

Market Dynamics:

  • The EU import quota renewal in Q2 prompted Indian exporters to ramp up shipments to Europe
  • US-bound exports face headwinds from steel tariffs, although Q1 shipments saw a temporary spike as buyers front-loaded purchases.
  • China remains a dominant player, aggressively pricing its steel in global markets, influencing trade flows.
  • India introduced a temporary 12% safeguard duty on select steel imports from April 21, 2025 for 200 days, aimed at protecting domestic manufacturers from import surges.
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India Eyes Rapeseed Meal Export Revival to China Amid Widening Price Gap

India is positioning itself to reclaim its share in China’s rapeseed meal market, leveraging a significant price advantage over global competitors amid tightening supplies and rising international rates.
TheSolvent Extractors’ Association (SEA) has urged the Ministry of Commerce to engage Chinese authorities in relaxing import restrictions, which currently limit exports to just three Indian facilities approved by China’s customs administration.
With Indian rapeseed meal priced at $202/tonne (Ex-Kandla FAS) versus $308/tonne (Ex-Hamburg) internationally, Indian exporters see a strong opening to re-enter the Chinese market—especially as China faces supply constraints from its main suppliers, Canada and the EU.
However, the Indian oilmeal export sector is also contending with competition from Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), a protein-rich ethanol byproduct increasingly used in animal feed, which may impact traditional demand.
Despite record harvests in soybean and mustard crops boosting domestic meal supply, global price disparity continues to dampen export demand.

Key Takeaways :

  • Price Edge: Indian rapeseed meal at $202/tonne vs international rate of $308/tonne, creating strong export potential.
  • Limited Access: Only 3 Indian plants are currently approved by China for rapeseed meal exports.
  • SEA's Appeal: Industry body urges government to push for relaxed Chinese import norms.
  • Market Opportunity: Supply constraints in Canada and EU open doors for India in China’s animal feed market.
  • DDGS Disruption: Rise of ethanol byproduct DDGS is reshaping feed industry demand and competing with traditional oilmeals.
  • Production Boost: Record soybean and mustard harvests have increased meal availability in India.
  • Export Slowdown: Export demand remains weak due to uncompetitive international pricing.
  • April Export Stats:
  • Total oilmeal exports: 4,65,863 tonnes (up from 4,65,156 tonnes in April 2024)
  • Rapeseed meal exports: 2,13,023 tonnes
  • Soybean meal exports: 2,30,743 tonnes
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India–UK FTA Set to Double Apparel and Textile Trade by 2030

India’s apparel and home textiles exports to the UK are on track to see a major boost, with trade volumes expected to double over the next 5–6 years. This surge is attributed to the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations, according to a report by credit rating agency ICRA.

Key Highlights :

  • The India–UK FTA is projected to become operational in calendar year 2026, pending legal review.
  • In CY2024, the UK imported $1.4 billion worth of apparel and home textiles from India.
  • This accounted for a 6.6% share of the UK’s total textile imports.
  • Currently, UK imposes 8–12% duty on apparel and home textiles from India.
  • The FTA will eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian goods, including textiles.
  • To meet growing demand, new manufacturing capacities are expected to be added in 4–5 years
With zero tariffs and strategic capacity building, the FTA could unlock a new era of textile trade growth between India and the UK.
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