The government says milk procurement, processing, and supply across India have stayed uninterrupted during the ongoing West Asia crisis. Officials report milk and milk product prices are stable, with no market supply disruptions. They also say payments to dairy farmers have continued throughout the crisis period, including during an inter-ministerial briefing.
India and Qatar held talks focused on boosting trade and strengthening supply chains after West Asia shipping disruptions. Bilateral trade reached about $14 billion in 2024-25, and both sides aim to double it by 2030. They also discussed exploring a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement as India pursues a free trade deal with GCC members.
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India’s economic growth is projected to hold near 6.5% this year, Gita Gopinath says, even as global uncertainty—especially the West Asia crisis—directly weighs on activity. She warns inflation may look contained only because firms are absorbing costs. That cushion could fade, pushing food prices higher. Oil shocks could spread across multiple sectors and even delay rate cuts.
Gita Gopinath says India is among the worst hit by the West Asia conflict, with disruption spreading beyond prices to supply chains for oil and gas. She warns fertiliser shortages could translate into lower farm output, lifting food inflation later. Growth is still projected around 6.5%, helped by tariff relief, while solar energy could cushion future shocks.
India’s pharmaceutical exports fell 23.17% in March, a sharp reversal attributed to the West Asia conflict disrupting both shipping routes and air transit hubs. With Dubai and Abu Dhabi impacted, freight costs rose and losses are estimated at ₹2,500–₹5,000 crore. The hit threatens the smooth flow of essential medicines to global markets despite earlier FY26 growth.
Facing the West Asia crisis and supply pressures, the government is considering policy changes to improve access to induction cooktops. Officials are reportedly discussing a cut in customs duties on key components and a possible reduction in GST, aiming to lower prices for consumers and boost uptake of energy-efficient cooking appliances.
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Indian engineering exports fell sharply in March, with shipments to the UAE down 66.8% and to Saudi Arabia dropping 45%. The downturn is linked to a West Asia crisis that disrupted cargo ship movements. Even with these regional shocks, engineering exports rose overall in March and across the 2025-26 fiscal year, while the US remains the top destination.
India’s MSME manufacturing sector expanded in the Jan–March period, but growth cooled as the West Asia crisis disrupted trade. Longer shipping times and higher costs affected momentum even as new orders and production rose. Hiring stayed largely steady, and businesses expect the next quarter to remain positive but cautious, hinging on timely policy support for sustained growth.
Indian ports have started listing stranded cargo eligible for concessions directly on their websites, aiming to boost transparency and ensure exporters receive benefits without middlemen. Jawaharlal Nehru Port has already issued concessions worth about Rs 22 crore. The government is consulting stakeholders to clear lingering issues, and shipping lines are warned against profiteering amid the West Asia crisis.
The RBI has reassured India that the West Asia conflict is unlikely to meaningfully disrupt remittances from Indians abroad. With remittance sources spread across multiple regions and channels, inflows are expected to stay strong. The central bank also pointed to services exports as a buffer to support external finances, even as inflation risks remain a concern.
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