Category Archives: trade

British PM Keir Starmer Joins His Business Delegation For Photo At London’s Heathrow Airport Ahead Of India Visit – VIDEO

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**London:** In a special gesture, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stood with his business delegation for a photo at London’s Heathrow Airport before departing for India on a two-day visit, with economic ties as a key focus area. This will be Prime Minister Starmer’s first official visit to India.

During the visit, on October 9 in Mumbai, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart will take stock of progress in diverse aspects of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in line with ‘Vision 2035’. This vision is a focused and time-bound 10-year roadmap of programmes and initiatives covering key pillars such as trade and investment, technology and innovation, defence and security, climate and energy, health, education, and people-to-people relations.

Both leaders will engage with businesses and industry leaders to explore opportunities presented by the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), a central pillar of the future India-UK economic partnership. They will also exchange views on issues of regional and global importance.

The two Prime Ministers are scheduled to attend the 6th edition of the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai, where they will deliver keynote addresses and engage with industry experts, policymakers, and innovators.

This visit aims to build on the momentum generated by Prime Minister Modi’s trip to the UK in July. It provides a valuable opportunity to reaffirm the shared vision of India and the United Kingdom to build a forward-looking partnership.

In July this year, India and the United Kingdom signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), a bilateral free trade agreement marking a major milestone in their longstanding partnership. The agreement was signed by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds in the presence of PM Modi and PM Starmer. It reflects the shared ambition of two major economies to deepen economic ties.

Bilateral trade between India and the UK has already reached USD 56 billion, with a target to double this figure by 2030.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/british-pm-keir-starmer-joins-his-business-delegation-for-photo-at-londons-heathrow-airport-ahead-of-india-visit-video

India-Singapore: Piyush Goyal Holds Discussions With Prime Minister Wong On Strengthening Trade & Investment Ties

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New Delhi: Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal on Friday held a series of important discussions with Singapore’s leadership to strengthen trade and investment linkages between India and Singapore. The talks focused on enhancing cooperation in innovation, digital connectivity, and exploring new opportunities in sustainable development.

According to an official statement, Goyal met with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

“Delighted to call on H.E. @LawrenceWongST, Prime Minister of Singapore. Discussions reaffirmed our commitment to further strengthen our comprehensive strategic partnership, building on the strong momentum and vast potential for future growth,” Goyal said in a post on X.

In response, Prime Minister Wong posted: “Strengthening Ties with India. Met India’s Commerce & Industry Minister @PiyushGoyal. We had a good discussion on deepening our economic partnership from industrial park development to emerging tech like AI.”

Goyal also held a productive bilateral meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong. “Had a fruitful bilateral meeting with Gan Kim Yong, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Trade & Industry, Singapore. There are immense avenues for our nations to collaborate across sectors such as advanced manufacturing, skilling, infrastructure, and digital connectivity, among others. Look forward to building on these opportunities, strengthening investment ties, and further deepening the India-Singapore partnership,” Goyal added in another post.

During this meeting, both sides discussed in detail ways to further deepen industrial and trade cooperation between the two countries.

As part of his three-day official visit to Singapore, Goyal also met Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan. The meeting reaffirmed strategic trust and alignment on regional and global economic priorities.

The visit highlighted India’s strong growth trajectory and its commitment to investment-led reforms, showcasing vast opportunities available for global partners across manufacturing, infrastructure, financial services, and the green economy.

A major highlight of the visit was the Business Roundtable on Foreign Direct Investment in the Manufacturing Sector, attended by key decision-makers from AmCham, EuroCham, the German Chamber of Industry & Commerce, and other leading business figures.

Delivering the keynote address, Goyal emphasised India’s robust economic growth, pro-investment policies, and strategic initiatives aimed at positioning India as a global manufacturing hub.

In addition to leadership engagements, Goyal held strategic business meetings with top corporates and institutional investors in Singapore.

At SIA Engineering Company (SIAEC), discussions focused on India’s fast-growing Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) sector and the need to fast-track the India–Singapore Skilling Centre for MRO professionals, in collaboration with Indian universities.

Capital Land Investment expressed its commitment to expanding renewable energy solutions for data centres in Maharashtra, while exploring opportunities in industrial parks, worker housing models, and potential entry into credit financing.

Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) shared updates on its tissue and pulp operations in India, discussed operational challenges, and showed interest in knowledge exchange on sustainable forestry and reforestation practices.

The Indian minister also met with Bryan Yeo, CEO-Designate of GIC, and Dilhan Pillay, CEO of Temasek. Discussions focused on scaling up India-focused portfolios across infrastructure, hospitality, renewable energy, financial services, and urban development.

The visit reaffirmed the strong and growing strategic and economic partnership between India and Singapore, with both sides agreeing to deepen cooperation in manufacturing, infrastructure, the green transition, digital economy, and financial investments, the official statement added.

*Disclaimer: This story is from the syndicated feed. Nothing has changed except the headline.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/india-singapore-piyush-goyal-holds-discussions-with-prime-minister-wong-on-strengthening-trade-investment-ties

‘Dependence mustn’t turn into compulsion’: RSS chief amid US tariffs

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**‘Dependence mustn’t turn into compulsion’: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat on US Tariffs**

*By Chanshimla Varah | Oct 02, 2025, 10:46 AM*

At the Vijayadashami event in Nagpur, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat addressed the recent tariff policy imposed by the United States on Indian goods. He stated that the US’s move was primarily “done keeping in mind the interest of their own.”

Bhagwat emphasized the reality of global interdependence but cautioned that it should never turn into compulsion. He urged India to focus on *swadeshi* (self-reliance) as the only viable path forward. “Our harmony must be our own,” he remarked, underlining the importance of national self-sufficiency.

**Regional Stability: Concerns Over Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh**

The RSS chief also commented on the recent unrest in neighboring countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. He warned that such violent disturbances could invite foreign interference and lead to chaos.

“Violent uprisings only lead to anarchy,” Bhagwat said, adding that forces intent on creating disorder in Bharat are active both inside and outside the country. He distinguished between democratic movements, which bring change, and violent revolts, which do not. Reflecting on history, he noted, “France rose against its king and Napoleon became emperor. So many so-called socialist movements happened; all these socialist countries are now capitalist.”

**National Harmony: Response to the Recent Attack in Pahalgam**

Addressing India’s rich diversity, Mohan Bhagwat stressed the need to embrace differences within the framework of law. He condemned actions that provoke communities and called for fair administration.

“The administration must act fairly, but the youth must also stay alert and intervene if needed. The grammar of anarchy needs to be stopped,” he asserted. He further emphasized that an “us” versus “them” mentality is unacceptable in a united India.

**Economic Focus: Supporting Swadeshi and Prime Minister Modi’s Push for Local Products**

The call for self-reliance echoes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeals encouraging Indians to buy products made in India. Modi highlighted the importance of recognizing and supporting locally crafted goods produced through the hard work of the country’s youth.

“Often, we don’t even know if the comb in our pocket is made in India or abroad. We should buy products that are Made in India, crafted through the hard work of our country’s sons and daughters,” Modi said in one of his speeches.

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As India navigates international economic challenges and regional uncertainties, leaders continue to stress the importance of self-reliance, national harmony, and democratic change driven by peaceful means.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/dependence-mustn-t-turn-into-compulsion-rss-chief-amid-us-tariffs/story

‘Dependence mustn’t turn into compulsion’: RSS chief amid US tariffs

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**‘Dependence Mustn’t Turn into Compulsion’: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat on US Tariffs**

*By Chanshimla Varah | October 2, 2025*

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has responded to the recent tariff policies imposed by the United States on Indian goods. Speaking at the Vijayadashami event in Nagpur, Bhagwat remarked that the US tariff measures are primarily designed to safeguard their own national interests.

He emphasized the reality of global interdependence but cautioned that such reliance should never amount to compulsion. “We must move towards swadeshi and self-reliance; there is no alternative. Our harmony must be our own,” he stated.

**Regional Stability: Concerns Over Neighboring Countries**

Addressing recent unrest in neighboring nations such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, Bhagwat warned that such disturbances could invite foreign interference. He stressed that violent uprisings only lead to anarchy and instability.

“Those who seek to create disturbances in Bharat are active both inside and outside our country,” he said. Highlighting the distinction between democratic movements and violent revolts, Bhagwat recalled historical examples: “Democratic movements bring change; violent uprisings don’t. France rose against its king and Napoleon became emperor. So many so-called socialist movements happened, and all these socialist countries are now capitalist.”

**National Harmony: Embracing Diversity and Fair Administration**

Speaking on India’s diverse social fabric, the RSS chief underlined the importance of embracing differences within the bounds of law. He condemned acts that provoke communal tensions and urged for fair and impartial administration.

“The administration must act fairly, but the youth must also stay alert and intervene if needed. The grammar of anarchy needs to be stopped,” he added, condemning the ‘us vs them’ mentality as unacceptable.

**Economic Focus: The Drive Towards ‘Make in India’**

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent calls to promote swadeshi products and self-sufficiency align with Bhagwat’s message. Modi has urged Indians to reduce dependency on foreign-made goods and consciously choose products made in India.

“Often, we don’t even know if the comb in our pocket is made in India or abroad. We should buy products that are made in India, crafted through the hard work of our country’s youth—products that carry the sweat of our sons and daughters,” the Prime Minister said in one of his speeches.

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The emphasis on self-reliance and indigenous production by both the RSS chief and the Prime Minister underscores a growing national narrative that advocates economic independence and cultural harmony amid global challenges.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/dependence-mustn-t-turn-into-compulsion-rss-chief-amid-us-tariffs/story

Russian President Putin set to visit India in early December

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Ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is scheduled to travel to New Delhi next month to finalize the finer details of the presidential trip. Putin last visited India in 2021, and preparations are now underway for the next summit between the two nations.

Sources indicate that prior to Putin’s arrival, India and Russia are expected to hold a meeting under the framework of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC). This meeting will focus on advancing the various dimensions of bilateral cooperation.

At the annual India-Russia summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin are anticipated to deliberate on further expanding the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” that defines the close ties between the two countries. While official dates for Putin’s visit have not yet been announced, the discussions are likely to emphasize deepening collaboration in key sectors such as defense and security, trade, and energy.

India and Russia have a longstanding mechanism where their leaders meet annually to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations. To date, 22 annual summit meetings have taken place, alternately hosted in India and Russia. The most recent summit was held in Moscow in July last year, when PM Modi visited for the annual meeting.

Russia has been a steadfast and time-tested partner for India, serving as a cornerstone of New Delhi’s foreign policy. Reports suggest that India is considering procuring additional batches of the S-400 air defense missile systems from Russia, especially after these weapons played a significant role during Operation Sindoor.

In October 2018, India signed a USD 5 billion deal with Russia for five units of the S-400 missile system, despite warnings from the US administration at the time about potential sanctions. So far, Russia has supplied three of the five ordered S-400 regiments, with the remaining two expected to be delivered by 2026. However, the delivery schedule has faced delays due to Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

Just a month ago, PM Modi and President Putin held talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) annual summit in Tianjin, China. During this meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic ties. This encounter occurred shortly after the US doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, including a 25% additional duty linked specifically to India’s purchase of Russian crude oil.

India has defended its procurement of Russian crude, maintaining that its energy strategy is driven by national interest and prevailing market dynamics.

In his televised opening remarks at the summit meeting, PM Modi welcomed President Putin warmly, saying, “140 crore Indians are eagerly waiting to welcome you in India this December.” He emphasized that this anticipation reflects the depth and scope of the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two nations.

Modi further noted, “India and Russia have always stood shoulder-to-shoulder even in the most difficult situations.” He underlined that close cooperation between the two countries remains important not only for their own people but also for fostering global peace, stability, and prosperity.

In their forthcoming summit talks, both leaders are also expected to deliberate on the ongoing Ukraine conflict, reflecting the significance of this issue in their bilateral discussions.

Stay tuned for updates on the official dates and outcomes of the India-Russia annual summit.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/russian-president-putin-set-to-visit-india-in-early-december-23596836

South Korea and US to form joint working group to improve visa system

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South Korea and the United States are set to launch a joint working group this week aimed at improving the US visa system for South Korean workers, Yonhap News Agency reported.

The move comes in response to the recent detention of more than 300 Korean nationals during a US immigration raid in Georgia, diplomatic sources said Sunday. The first meeting of the new working group will take place in Washington on Tuesday, just weeks after the high-profile raid on a factory construction site that drew international attention, according to Yonhap News Agency.

The detained workers were held for about a week over what officials described as unclear visa violations before being released following diplomatic negotiations between Seoul and Washington.

According to diplomatic sources, South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US State Department will jointly lead the initiative. The US Department of Homeland Security and Commerce Department are also believed to be taking part in the group.

The two nations are widely expected to discuss how to improve the US visa system for South Korean workers at a time when Korean firms have been carrying out large manufacturing projects in the US.

Many of those who were detained in the Georgia raid had arrived in the US on a B1 visa, which is issued for business purposes such as attending meetings or signing contracts, or under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/south-korea-us-set-to-launch-joint-working-group-to-improve-visa-system-weeks-after-high-profile-raid-on-korean-nationals-23596280

In big push to fisheries sector, India eyes global certification for seafood

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**India Eyes Global Certification for Seafood to Counter US Tariffs**

**NEW DELHI:** In an effort to counter the impact of unilateral tariffs imposed by the United States, India is planning to seek global certification for its seafood products. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification, an internationally recognized sustainability standard, could help Indian seafood command premium prices—up to 30% higher than before.

The US, previously India’s largest seafood market valued at $7.38 billion (35% of exports), implemented a steep 59.73% tariff on Indian seafood. This move severely affected the seafood industry, leading to significant market challenges for exporters.

In response, the Union government intends to allocate special funds through the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) 2.0 scheme to support MSC certification for 10 key Indian fisheries. National institutes, such as the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), are providing technical assistance to drive this initiative.

The 10 priority fisheries include a variety of deep-sea and coastal species such as shrimps, squid, cuttlefish, Karikadi shrimp, threadfin breams, blue swimming crab, and octopus. These categories are currently in the final stages of addressing technical gaps before certification. India is expected to achieve full MSC certification for these fisheries by 2026.

“It has been a tedious five-year process, and now we are preparing to apply for MSC certification in 2026,” said Dr. Sunil Mohammad, a former principal scientist at CMFRI.

The certification process involves a cost of around Rs 20 lakh per category, with the government committing to bear half of the total expenses to support the seafood sector.

Currently, India has only one fishery—the Ashtamudi short-neck clam fishery from Kerala—certified under the MSC. With this new push for certification, India aims to regain its market share, particularly in Europe, and strengthen its position in the global seafood market.
https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2025/Sep/28/in-big-push-to-fisheries-sector-india-eyes-global-certification-for-seafood

India seeks US tariff relief, offers corn and energy imports

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**India Seeks US Tariff Relief, Offers Corn and Energy Imports**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 05:21 PM*

India and the United States are currently engaged in negotiations for a bilateral trade deal. As part of these discussions, India has proposed increasing its imports of corn from the US for ethanol production, along with expanding energy purchases. This proposal arrives amid India’s request for the removal of the 25% penal tariffs imposed by Washington on its Russian oil imports.

These tariffs were introduced by the US in response to India’s purchases of Russian oil, which Washington alleges have indirectly funded Russia’s war against Ukraine.

**Exploring Corn Imports for Ethanol Production**

The US has been encouraging India to boost its purchases of American soybeans and corn. However, India has shown hesitation due to concerns surrounding genetically modified (GM) crop varieties. Despite these challenges, officials confirmed that “fresh offers have been made” and discussions are underway to buy corn specifically for ethanol production.

This development indicates India’s willingness to explore new avenues within the ongoing trade negotiations.

**Negotiation Strategy and Agricultural Market Access**

While talks continue, India remains firm on protecting its agricultural sector. The country has set clear red lines regarding market access, aiming to safeguard its farmers and prevent the entry of GM products into its food supply.

An official involved in the talks stated, “The talks are on track, and we are trying to meet the fall deadline, but the date and venue of the next round of negotiations is yet to be finalized.”

**Diplomatic Discussions: First In-Person Meeting Since Tariffs Announcement**

The Indian delegation, led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, recently met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and US Ambassador-Designate to India, Sergio Gor. This marked the first face-to-face meeting since the August 27 announcement of the 25% penal tariffs.

The two sides are working toward concluding a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), originally targeted for completion by this fall. To date, five rounds of negotiations have taken place.

**Engaging US Businesses and Investors**

In addition to government-level talks, the Indian delegation engaged with key US-based businesses and investors to promote trade and investment ties between the two countries.

According to the Indian Ministry of Commerce, these meetings received a positive response. Business leaders expressed confidence in India’s growth story and showed strong interest in expanding their activities within the Indian market.

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The ongoing negotiations reflect a complex but promising phase in India-US trade relations, as both nations seek mutually beneficial solutions amid geopolitical challenges and market sensitivities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/india-seeks-us-tariff-relief-offers-corn-and-energy-imports/story

High US tariffs pose risk to India’s growth: Crisil

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**High US Tariffs Pose Risk to India’s Growth: Crisil**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 05:01 PM*

A recent report by Crisil Intelligence has highlighted significant risks to India’s economic growth due to the high tariffs imposed by the US on Indian goods. These tariffs are expected to impact both Indian exports and investments adversely. However, the report also notes that domestic consumption is likely to remain a key driver of growth, supported by low inflation and prospective rate cuts.

**GDP Growth and Inflation Projections**

India’s GDP growth reached a five-quarter high of 7.8% in the first quarter of FY25-26, up from 7.4% during the same period last year. Despite this positive momentum, nominal GDP growth slowed to 8.8% compared to 10.8% in the previous year, according to Crisil Intelligence.

On the inflation front, the report forecasts that the consumer price index (CPI) inflation will ease to 3.5% in the current fiscal year, down from 4.6% last year. This moderation in inflation is expected to provide further support to economic stability.

**Factors Influencing Inflation Control**

Robust agricultural growth is anticipated to keep food inflation under control, although the full impact of recent excess rainfall is yet to be assessed. Additionally, lower crude oil prices and stable global commodity prices are expected to help contain non-food inflation. These factors combined are likely to play a crucial role in managing India’s inflation rates over the coming months.

**Policy Outlook: RBI Rate Cut Expected**

On the monetary policy front, Crisil Intelligence predicts that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will implement one more rate cut during this fiscal year, followed by a pause to assess the effects. Between February and June 2025, the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee had already cut the repo rate by 100 basis points. The central bank is currently awaiting the full transmission of these previous cuts before making further adjustments to interest rates.

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*In summary, while high US tariffs present challenges for India’s growth through their impact on trade and investment, domestic factors such as controlled inflation and accommodative monetary policy are expected to sustain economic momentum in the near term.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/us-tariffs-could-impact-india-s-growth-crisil/story

High US tariffs pose risk to India’s growth: Crisil

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**High US Tariffs Pose Risk to India’s Growth: Crisil**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 27, 2025, 05:01 PM*

A recent report by Crisil Intelligence has highlighted that the high tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian goods could pose a significant risk to India’s economic growth. The September 2025 report emphasizes that these tariffs are likely to affect both Indian exports and investments negatively.

However, despite these challenges, domestic consumption is expected to remain the key driver of growth, supported by low inflation levels and anticipated rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

**Economic Indicators: GDP Growth and Inflation Projections**

India’s GDP growth reached a five-quarter high of 7.8% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025-26, up from 7.4% in the same quarter last year. Meanwhile, nominal GDP growth slowed to 8.8% compared to 10.8% during the corresponding period in the previous fiscal year, according to Crisil Intelligence.

On the inflation front, the report projects consumer price index (CPI) inflation to ease to 3.5% this fiscal year, down from 4.6% last year.

**Inflation Control: Factors Influencing Rates**

Robust agricultural growth is expected to help keep food inflation under control. However, the full impact of recent excess rainfall on agricultural output remains to be seen. Additionally, declining crude oil prices and stable global commodity prices are anticipated to contain non-food inflation, further aiding in the moderation of overall inflation rates in the coming months.

**Policy Outlook: RBI Likely to Implement One More Rate Cut**

On the monetary policy front, Crisil Intelligence forecasts that the RBI will introduce one more rate cut during the current fiscal year, followed by a pause. The central bank’s monetary policy committee had already reduced the repo rate by 100 basis points between February and June 2025. The RBI is now expected to await the complete transmission of these cuts before deciding on any further interest rate adjustments.

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*In summary, while high US tariffs present challenges to India’s export and investment sectors, strong domestic consumption, controlled inflation, and accommodative monetary policy are likely to support the country’s economic growth in the near term.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/us-tariffs-could-impact-india-s-growth-crisil/story