tariff policies

US courts have again blocked Trump's 10% global tariffs, deeming them unauthorized. This ruling, following earlier tariff invalidations, signals a return to WTO's MFN rates. For India, this policy instability raises concerns, prompting advice to pause Free Trade Agreement talks until US trade systems stabilize, preventing one-sided deals.

A US federal trade court ruled against President Trump's 10% global tariffs, deeming them invalid and unauthorized by law. The court found the administration's justification under a 1974 trade law insufficient, a setback for a key trade policy. This decision offers stability to businesses reliant on global supply chains.

US President Donald Trump announced the removal of tariffs and restrictions on whiskey trade between Scotland and Kentucky. This decision, influenced by the recent visit of King Charles and Queen Camilla, aims to bolster long-standing trade ties, particularly concerning wooden barrel exchanges.

Odisha has launched a new policy to transform used water into a valuable resource, aiming for 100% treatment of urban wastewater by 2047. The state targets reusing 20% of treated water by 2030, scaling to 50% by 2036. Innovative pricing and incentives will encourage adoption across sectors, reducing freshwater dependency and addressing water stress.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leaders and workers protested LPG price hikes in Ranchi, citing financial strain on hotels and public hardship. They criticized the Union government's policies, comparing the situation to demonetization. The BJP countered, calling the protest a political stunt and urging the JMM to reduce state VAT on fuel, highlighting issues like electricity tariff hikes in Jharkhand.

Rajasthan's top energy official cautioned against lengthy power purchase agreements for battery storage, warning that rigid, long-term contracts could undermine the technology's inherent flexibility and burden consumers. He emphasized that battery systems offer multiple revenue streams beyond just selling electricity, and fixed tariffs for decades might hinder operators from capitalizing on market opportunities and technological advancements.

Donald Trump has warned the UK of significant tariffs if Prime Minister Keir Starmer does not withdraw the country's digital services tax. Trump views the 2% tax on digital platforms as discriminatory towards American companies, signaling potential retaliation if the policy persists. This threat escalates trade tensions between the two allies.

Washington isn’t interested in being a guarantor of anything, including energy supplies. New Delhi’s strategic response must centre around the one energy source it has in abundance

Market analysts have shifted from the 'TACO' nickname for President Trump to 'NACHO' amid escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. This new label reflects growing skepticism that the crucial global energy route will reopen soon, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts and trade disputes.

India and New Zealand have signed a 'once-in-a-generation' trade pact, granting Indian exporters duty-free access to New Zealand. The agreement aims to double bilateral trade to $5 billion in five years and includes a $20 billion investment commitment from New Zealand. Both nations are optimistic about the pact's potential to boost economic growth and cooperation across various sectors.

The Indian rupee is facing significant pressure, weakening against the US dollar due to soaring crude oil prices driven by Middle East geopolitical tensions and persistent foreign fund outflows. Despite India's robust economic growth, the currency's slide continues as the Reserve Bank of India intervenes to curb volatility rather than target a specific exchange rate.

Donald Trump has threatened to impose significant tariffs on the UK if the government under Keir Starmer does not scrap its digital services tax. Trump stated the levy unfairly targets American tech companies, warning of retaliatory measures if the tax is not withdrawn. He also commented on Starmer's chances of recovery, linking it to immigration policies.

Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam's manifesto, spanning 94 pages, outlines comprehensive promises for Tamil Nadu voters. Key pledges include monthly financial aid for women, free bus rides, and healthcare initiatives. The party also committed to youth development, farmer support, police reforms, and economic revival for MSMEs and weavers.

RBI is not alone in repatriating its gold reserves. Several central banks like France’s Banque de France, Germany’s Deutsche Bundesbank, Serbia’s National Bank have done the same - buy why?

India and the US are nearing a bilateral trade agreement, with negotiators reporting significant progress and only a few issues remaining. Discussions are described as positive and productive, focusing on market access and tariff alignment. This potential deal, aimed at boosting trade between the two nations, is expected to be a win-win, marking a key milestone in economic ties.

Donald Trump believes King Charles III's upcoming US visit will mend frayed Washington-London ties, despite trade, security, and policy disagreements. He praised the King as a "fantastic man" and "brave." While the royal tour aims to strengthen historic bonds, underlying tensions persist over immigration, energy, and foreign policy, with the US also eyeing tariffs on digital services.

Indian exporters anticipate recovering discounts offered on goods previously hit by a 50% US tariff. Following a court order, US importers will receive refunds, with buyers expected to pass them on to Indian sellers.

The US government has launched a tool to refund over $166 billion in tariffs imposed by former President Trump, following a Supreme Court ruling. Importers can now submit documentation to recover payments, with electronic refunds for approximately $127 billion in duties available initially. The extent of consumer repayment hinges on companies sharing recovered funds.

1,781 rooftop solar panels have been installed in NPCL's licensed area, of which 1,162 are under PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana