India Plans Export Support Measures Amid West Asia Trade Disruptions

The Indian government is formulating a set of measures to support exporters facing trade disruptions due to tensions in West Asia, with details expected later this week. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal highlighted that logistical challenges, especially in shipping and air cargo, are affecting both exports to and imports from the region. An inter-ministerial group under the DGFT is meeting daily to monitor the situation and address exporter concerns. While exports may still grow this fiscal year, Agrawal noted the disruptions will prevent the country from reaching its full export potential, prompting efforts to increase shipments to other markets to compensate.

Key Points: India to Announce Export Support Amid West Asia Tensions

  • Govt measures for exporters
  • West Asia trade disruptions
  • Logistical challenges for ships & air cargo
  • Inter-ministerial group monitoring
  • Aim to offset losses via other markets
2 min read

Govt working on measures to support exporters amid West Asia tensions: Commerce Secy

Commerce Secretary says govt working on measures to help exporters facing logistical disruptions from West Asia tensions. Details expected this week.

"The ongoing tensions in the region could affect India's exports. At the same time, imports from those markets may also see disruptions. - Rajesh Agrawal"

New Delhi, March 16

The government is working on a set of measures to support Indian exporters who are facing disruptions in trade with West Asia, according to Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal on Monday.

He said that the details of these steps are likely to be announced later this week.

"The ongoing tensions in the region could affect India's exports. At the same time, imports from those markets may also see disruptions," Agrawal stated.

He explained that logistical challenges are creating difficulties for traders. Movement of ships has been affected, while air cargo operations are also facing problems.

"There are logistical challenges, especially in the movement of ships, while air cargoes are also facing certain issues. If you look at Indian exports to the region, they will suffer, but their imports will also," he said.

He added that both sides are in discussions to find solutions that can reduce the impact of the disruptions.

To deal with the situation, the government has formed an inter-ministerial group under the Directorate General of Foreign Trade.

The group is closely monitoring the situation and addressing the concerns raised by exporters.

Agrawal said the group meets every day at 10 a.m. to review the challenges faced by exporters sending goods to the affected region.

"The aim is to gather feedback and find quick solutions to reduce the difficulties faced by businesses," he mentioned.

He also noted that while India's exports may still grow during the current financial year, the disruptions could prevent the country from reaching its full export potential.

"Overall export numbers, there will be some impact on the potential exports. Maybe my number will be higher than last year, but I could have done much better," he said.

Agrawal said the government will try to increase exports to other markets to make up for the losses caused by disruptions in West Asia.

"Whatever exports we lose from that part of the world, we will try and make up with more exports to other markets," he said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the intent is good, I hope these measures go beyond just forming committees. We need concrete support like faster GST refunds for affected exporters and maybe some temporary freight subsidies. The 'inter-ministerial group' needs to deliver actionable help, not just daily reviews.
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Arjun K
This is a major concern. West Asia is a crucial market for our spices, gems, and engineering goods. Diversifying to other markets is the right long-term strategy, but it takes time. In the short term, logistical support is key. Jai Hind!
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Priya S
The air cargo issue is a big one. Many perishable goods and high-value items go by air. Hope they are working with airlines to find alternative routes or charter solutions. The exporters' feedback must be heard.
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Vikram M
"We will try and make up with more exports to other markets" – easier said than done, Sir. Building new trade channels isn't overnight. Focus should be on insulating our existing trade first. Speed is of the essence.
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Kavya N
A positive step. At least they are acknowledging the problem openly and meeting daily. Many small businesses depend on this trade. Let's hope for good news by the end of the week. 🤞

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