News for 'Commerce and Industry Ministry'

Govt allows FDI in inventory-based e-commerce model only for export purposes

Govt allows FDI in inventory-based e-commerce model only for export purposes

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

The Indian government has permitted Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in an inventory-based e-commerce model exclusively for the export of domestically manufactured or produced goods, aiming to boost outbound shipments without affecting small local retailers.

Meghalaya 'Bans' Quick Commerce

Meghalaya 'Bans' Quick Commerce

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

At the heart of the decision is concern over the survival of Meghalaya's neighbourhood retailers.

Parliamentary Panel Pushes for Swift India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement

Parliamentary Panel Pushes for Swift India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement

Rediff.com1 days ago

A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce has urged the Indian government to swiftly conclude the proposed India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), while ensuring India's interests are protected, recommending complete exemption for key export products like generic medicines and smartphones from future US tariff increases.

Railways to take reforms path to boost share in freight transport

Railways to take reforms path to boost share in freight transport

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

"Indian Railways is now the world's second-largest cargo carrier by volume, up from fourth, even as its share of the country's total freight movement remains well below potential.'

India-UK FTA: Alcobev Industry Welcomes Tariff Cuts, Domestic Makers Seek Level Playing Field

India-UK FTA: Alcobev Industry Welcomes Tariff Cuts, Domestic Makers Seek Level Playing Field

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Industry bodies representing alcoholic beverage manufacturers have welcomed the India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which will see tariffs on UK whisky and gin reduced, boosting bilateral trade and supporting premiumisation. However, domestic manufacturers are calling for state governments to withdraw concessions currently enjoyed by imported liquor brands.

Handwoven heritage takes centre stage at President Murmu's I-Day reception

Handwoven heritage takes centre stage at President Murmu's I-Day reception

Rediff.com4 days ago

Guests at President Droupadi Murmu's Independence Day 'At Home' reception will be welcomed with handwoven Maheshwari stoles, celebrating the vibrant art traditions of Chhattisgarh, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, alongside an invitation package highlighting sustainable environmental practices.

India Rejects US 'Overcapacity' Claims in Steel, Textiles, Citing Low Per Capita Consumption

India Rejects US 'Overcapacity' Claims in Steel, Textiles, Citing Low Per Capita Consumption

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

India has strongly refuted claims by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) regarding excess capacity in its steel and textile sectors, arguing that the nation's significantly low per capita consumption of these products contradicts such assertions, according to Amitabh Kumar, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce.

Wholesale Price Inflation Climbs to 9.87% in June, Driven by Food and Mineral Costs

Wholesale Price Inflation Climbs to 9.87% in June, Driven by Food and Mineral Costs

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

India's wholesale price inflation (WPI) increased to 9.87 per cent in June, up from 9.68 per cent in May, primarily due to significant price increases in non-food and food products, with food inflation alone rising to 5.49 per cent.

Rajesh Exports probed over Rs 15.15 trillion financial misstatement

Rajesh Exports probed over Rs 15.15 trillion financial misstatement

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) has commenced an investigation into Rajesh Exports concerning a 15.15 trillion financial misstatement, following a referral from market regulator Sebi.

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

'We Need To Stop Coaching Classes'

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

'We can integrate AI and tech into education, but that is just a means and not an end.' 'Ultimately, we need to control what happens in a classroom and we need to let teachers innovate their teaching style to suit the needs of Gen Z and beyond.'

Will Trump Impose 100 Per Cent Tariffs On India?

Will Trump Impose 100 Per Cent Tariffs On India?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

It is plain to see that the US senate bill's real objective is to derail India's time-tested strategic partnership with Russia, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

India-EU FTA Legal Scrub to Conclude Soon, Pact Expected by December 31

India-EU FTA Legal Scrub to Conclude Soon, Pact Expected by December 31

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the legal scrubbing of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) text is expected to be completed within 10-12 days, with the final deal anticipated to be signed by December 31.

India initiates anti-dumping investigations against three Chinese products

India initiates anti-dumping investigations against three Chinese products

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

India has launched anti-dumping investigations into imports of thermal paper, Biaxially Oriented Polyamide (BOPA) Film, and certain antioxidants from China, following complaints from domestic manufacturers alleging material injury due to cheap imports.

Wholesale Price Inflation Hits 9.68% in May, Driven by Fuel, Food Costs

Wholesale Price Inflation Hits 9.68% in May, Driven by Fuel, Food Costs

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

India's wholesale price index (WPI) inflation surged to 9.68 per cent in May, up from 8.26 per cent in April, primarily due to significant increases in the prices of fuel and power, manufactured goods, and food items.

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

'Why Should We Be Okay With 6.5% Growth Rate?'

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

'Why not aspire for 8 or 9 or even 10 per cent?'

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Private Sector Key To India-US Strategic Tech Outcomes

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Senior Indian officials highlight the indispensable role of the private sector in translating India-US cooperation in AI, semiconductors, quantum technologies, and critical minerals into tangible outcomes. The collaboration aims to build trusted, resilient technology ecosystems and position India as a global electronics and semiconductor hub.

India's PCB exports to China a rare success story

India's PCB exports to China a rare success story

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

India's exports of printed circuit boards (PCBs) to China dramatically increased over 40-fold to $1.5 billion in FY26, indicating a significant shift where China is increasingly importing simpler electronic assemblies from India as it focuses on higher-value manufacturing domestically.

No word on India-US interim trade deal as tariff deadline looms

No word on India-US interim trade deal as tariff deadline looms

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

India and the United States have reviewed progress on a proposed interim bilateral trade agreement, discussing market access, digital trade, and non-tariff barriers, as they race to finalise a deal before a temporary 10 per cent US tariff regime expires on July 24.

India-UK Trade Deal to Kick Off July 15, PM Modi Confirms

India-UK Trade Deal to Kick Off July 15, PM Modi Confirms

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will come into effect on July 15, 2026, anticipating a significant boost to bilateral trade and investment.

India may seek sunset clause in US trade pact

India may seek sunset clause in US trade pact

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

India may press for an automatic review mechanism in its proposed interim trade deal with the United States (US), mirroring a sunset clause introduced by the European Parliament in its trade agreement with Washington, people aware of the negotiations said. The European Parliament last week approved the EU-US trade deal but inserted a sunset clause requiring the arrangement to expire on December 31, 2029, unless both sides agree to extend it.

Gold Imports Fall After Duty Hike

Gold Imports Fall After Duty Hike

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Monthly gold imports have declined to 25-30 tonnes from 70-80 tonnes while recycling of old jewellery has increased following the recent hike in import duties.

Rupee Exchange Rate Is Not Just A Number

Rupee Exchange Rate Is Not Just A Number

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

If we really want to curb the further depreciation of the rupee and make the rupee appreciate, we want to come out of the mindset that the exchange rate is merely a number, bring policy corrections to help reduce the outflow of foreign exchange by imposing suitable tariffs to discourage imports and bring self reliance, discipline FPIs, and correcting rules governing royalty outflows, suggests Dr Ashwani Mahajan, National Co-Convenor, Swadeshi Jagaran Manch.

Govt Eyes Steps To Contain CAD

Govt Eyes Steps To Contain CAD

Rediff.com22 May 2026

'The situation globally is quite challenging, but we have the confidence and courage of conviction that we will come out winners even in this challenging time.'

Govt issues updated SOP for processing FDI applications

Govt issues updated SOP for processing FDI applications

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Indian government has issued an updated Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for processing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) applications, aiming to clear all proposals within 12 weeks, a two-week extension from the previous 10-week target, to ensure a fully paperless and transparent process.

Wholesale Price Inflation Spikes to 42-month high of 8.3%

Wholesale Price Inflation Spikes to 42-month high of 8.3%

Rediff.com14 May 2026

India's wholesale price inflation surged to 8.30 per cent in April, up from 3.88 per cent in March, primarily driven by a significant increase in the prices of fuel, power, and crude petroleum, according to data from the commerce and industry ministry.

India's exports cross $820 bn in 2024-25: Commerce ministry

India's exports cross $820 bn in 2024-25: Commerce ministry

Rediff.com9 Apr 2025

The country's goods and services exports have crossed $820 billion in 2024-25, marking a nearly 6 per cent increase over the previous fiscal year despite global economic uncertainties, the commerce ministry said on Wednesday. The exports stood at $778 billion in 2023-24.

India-US Trade Rift Deepens Over Section 301 Hearings

India-US Trade Rift Deepens Over Section 301 Hearings

Rediff.com22 May 2026

American industry groups sought punitive tariffs on Indian goods at USTR hearings, while Indian officials defended the country's manufacturing growth as demand-led and WTO-compliant.

India's Exports Hit 5-Month High in April, But Trade Deficit Expands

India's Exports Hit 5-Month High in April, But Trade Deficit Expands

Rediff.com15 May 2026

India's exports recorded a 13.78 per cent increase to USD 43.56 billion in April, marking the highest monthly outbound shipments in over four years, primarily driven by petroleum products. However, the trade deficit widened to a three-month high of USD 28.38 billion due to a 10 per cent rise in imports.

Be Prepared For Fuel Price Hike!

Be Prepared For Fuel Price Hike!

Rediff.com13 May 2026

'OMCs are incurring losses of Rs 1,000 crore per day due to the West Asia crisis.'

Eye on China: Quad ramps up Indo-Pacific surveillance

Eye on China: Quad ramps up Indo-Pacific surveillance

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Quad grouping has expanded cooperation in critical minerals and energy, while unveiling new measures to boost maritime surveillance and port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific. This move comes against the backdrop of China's growing military posturing in the region, with ministers reiterating strong opposition to destabilising actions and expressing serious concerns over militarisation of disputed features.

Core industries growth flat in October

Core industries growth flat in October

Rediff.com20 Nov 2025

Growth of eight key infrastructure sectors remained flat in October as expansion in output of petroleum refinery products, fertiliser and steel was offset by a contraction in coal and electricity production, according to official data released on Thursday.

Government Introduces Bill to Decriminalise Minor Offences

Government Introduces Bill to Decriminalise Minor Offences

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The Indian government has introduced the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha to decriminalise and rationalise minor offences, aiming to promote ease of doing business and living.

Bill Introduced to Promote Ease of Business and Living

Bill Introduced to Promote Ease of Business and Living

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The government has introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to amend provisions for decriminalising minor offences, aiming to promote ease of doing business and living.

FTAs, reviving exports to be commerce ministry's focus

FTAs, reviving exports to be commerce ministry's focus

Rediff.com18 Jun 2024

Another priority in the first 100 days could be the launch of an e-platform -- Trade Connect -- to help exporters connect with stakeholders of international trade.

Piyush Goyal rejects reports on India holding off US trade deal

Piyush Goyal rejects reports on India holding off US trade deal

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Piyush Goyal on Friday rejected reports suggesting that India is planning to hold off trade deal with the United States for several months.

India-US trade talks end, both sides agree to remain engaged

India-US trade talks end, both sides agree to remain engaged

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

India and the US have reported positive progress in recent trade talks in Washington, agreeing to maintain engagement to finalise a bilateral trade agreement, which now requires recalibration following new US tariffs.

India-China border trade via Lipulekh Pass to resume after 6 yrs

India-China border trade via Lipulekh Pass to resume after 6 yrs

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

Border trade between India and China through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district is set to resume this year after a six-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India Investigates Subsidised Paperboard Imports from China and Indonesia

India Investigates Subsidised Paperboard Imports from China and Indonesia

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

India has initiated a probe into imports of subsidised paperboard from China and Indonesia following complaints from domestic manufacturers. The investigation will assess the impact of these imports on the Indian paper industry and determine if anti-subsidy duties are warranted.

India Investigates Subsidised Paperboard Imports from China and Indonesia

India Investigates Subsidised Paperboard Imports from China and Indonesia

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

India has initiated a probe into imports of subsidised paperboard from China and Indonesia following complaints from domestic manufacturers. The investigation will assess the impact of these imports on the Indian paper industry and determine if anti-subsidy duties are warranted.

India, US chief negotiators to begin three-day trade pact talks in Washington from Apr 20

India, US chief negotiators to begin three-day trade pact talks in Washington from Apr 20

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Chief negotiators from India and the US are set to begin three-day talks in Washington to recalibrate the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) framework, following significant changes in the US tariff landscape, including a new 10 per cent tariff imposed on all countries.