US, China reach ‘framework’ of trade deal, Bessent says

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Sunday that the U.S. and China will likely avoid 100 percent American tariffs on Chinese goods after negotiators settled on a plan for a possible trade agreement.

Bessent told NBC News’ Kristen Welker that “after two days of negotiations” with Chinese International Trade Representative Li Chenggang in Malaysia, a “framework” has been established to move forward. This development suggests progress in easing trade tensions between the two nations.

The proposed framework aims to reduce the likelihood of full tariffs being imposed, which could have significant impacts on both economies. Further details are expected as discussions continue.
https://thehill.com/policy/international/5573659-us-china-trade-agreement-bessent/

DTI readies safeguard duty on imported cement

**DTI to Impose Safeguard Duty on Cement Imports to Protect Local Industry**

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced its intention to impose a safeguard duty on cement imports to ensure a level playing field for local manufacturers and protect the domestic industry.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the DTI confirmed that imported cement will be subject to a safeguard duty of ₱14 per 40-kilogram bag of Ordinary Portland Cement. This measure aims to address the surge in cement imports that may adversely affect local producers.

The DTI emphasized that the safeguard duty is necessary to maintain fair competition and support the growth and sustainability of the Philippine cement industry. Further details regarding the implementation and duration of the duty are expected to be provided in the coming days.
https://business.inquirer.net/552581/dti-readies-safeguard-duty-on-imported-cement

US set to charge fees on Chinese ships in a bid to save shipyards

NEW YORK, United States – An escalating trade war between China and the United States faces another flashpoint Tuesday when Chinese ships will be required to start paying a special fee to dock at US ports.

The move, announced by the US Trade Representative (USTR) in April, triggered reciprocal measures from Beijing, which will impose similar fees on American vessels.

https://business.inquirer.net/552352/us-set-to-charge-fees-on-chinese-ships-in-a-bid-to-save-shipyards

Ford reconsidering plans for Tamil Nadu plant amid Trump tariffs

**Ford Reconsidering Plans for Tamil Nadu Plant Amid Trump Tariffs**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 11, 2025, 02:27 pm*

US auto giant Ford is re-evaluating its plans for the Maraimalai Nagar plant near Chennai, according to The Economic Times. This reconsideration comes in response to the tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump, which have compelled the company to reassess its financial strategy relating to the facility. A meeting of top executives from Ford’s Michigan headquarters is slated to further discuss the matter.

**Facility Status**

The Maraimalai Nagar plant has been non-operational since mid-2022 after Ford ceased vehicle production in India. Previously, the company had explored repurposing the facility for engine production. However, Trump-era tariff policies have increased costs for American companies exporting to the US, complicating investment plans for the plant.

**Strategic Shift: Focus Moves from India to Europe**

Amid shifting global economic conditions and rising political challenges, Ford is pivoting its focus away from India towards Europe. The company has made substantial investments in its European operations, including a $4.4 billion project in Germany, an electric vehicle initiative in Cologne, a parts manufacturing plant in the UK, and a series of electric vehicle launches supported by extensive battery research.

**Ford’s Continued Commitment to Chennai**

Despite the uncertainties, a Ford spokesperson reiterated the company’s ongoing commitment to its Chennai manufacturing facility. “Our position in relation to our Chennai manufacturing facility has not changed since we confirmed our intention to utilize the plant for manufacturing for export,” the spokesperson stated.

The spokesperson also highlighted that Ford maintains a strong presence in Chennai through its 12,000-strong Ford Business Services team based in the city.

**Government Dialogue**

The Tamil Nadu government continues to engage in regular discussions with Ford representatives concerning the plant’s future. The state government is keen to secure a decision on the plant’s use as part of its broader initiative to bolster Tamil Nadu’s position as a key auto manufacturing hub.

As the situation develops, both Ford and the Tamil Nadu government remain in talks to navigate the challenges and explore viable options for the Maraimalai Nagar facility.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/ford-re-evaluates-tamil-nadu-plant-plans-amid-trump-s-tariffs/story

米国とブラジル外相が電話会談 50%関税、対話継続で合意

経済
米国とブラジル外相が電話会談
50%関税、対話継続で合意

2025年10月10日 3:35 更新 3:38
※本記事は有料会員限定です。

【サンパウロ、ワシントン共同】

ブラジルのビエイラ外相は9日、ルビオ米国務長官と電話会談を行いました。

会談では、米国がブラジルに課した50%の関税措置について協議。両国は経済や貿易に関する対話を継続することで合意しました。

今後も両国間の協議が注目されます。

<ご案内>
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この記事は有料会員限定のため、続きは会員登録後にご覧いただけます。
7日間無料トライアルを実施中。1日あたり37円で読み放題です。年払いならさらにお得にご利用いただけます。
https://www.nishinippon.co.jp/item/1409651/

Maharashtra Introduces Digital ‘E-Bond’ System To Modernise Import-Export Trade

**Maharashtra Introduces Historic ‘E-Bond’ System to Modernise Trade**

The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step towards modernising trade by replacing traditional paper bonds with a fully digital ‘E-Bond’ system for import-export transactions. With this reform, Maharashtra becomes the sixteenth state in India to introduce this facility, aimed at easing business operations and enhancing transparency in financial dealings.

### Boost for Trade and Industry

Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule highlighted the initiative as a major relief for the state’s business and industrial sectors. Currently, Maharashtra issues nearly 3,000 to 4,000 bonds monthly, amounting to over 40,000 bonds annually for import-export activities.

“Introducing e-bonds will transform these large-scale financial transactions. While this may appear as a small procedural change, it represents an important turning point for Maharashtra’s economy,” said Bawankule.

### Simplifying Transactions and Strengthening Transparency

The new system was launched at Mantralaya, where Inspector General of Registration and Stamps, Ravindra Binwade, explained the e-bond mechanism. Officials noted that this move will simplify bond issuance at customs offices, increase efficiency in international trade, and eliminate the need for paper stamp bonds previously issued in denominations such as Rs 500.

The shift to digital bonds is expected to:

– Reduce paper usage and contribute to environmental protection
– Strengthen transparency and reduce revenue leakage
– Ensure more funds flow into the state treasury

### Maharashtra’s Push for Ease of Doing Business

The government expressed confidence that adopting a digital-first approach in revenue administration will improve Maharashtra’s Ease of Doing Business rankings.

“This initiative will accelerate trade processes and push Maharashtra’s economy forward. It is not just about convenience but also about transparency and modernisation,” added Bawankule.

With the introduction of the e-bond system, Maharashtra is poised to lead in digital trade facilitation, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-introduces-digital-e-bond-system-to-modernise-import-export-trade

Mumbai To Host Global Women’s Trade Summit This Weekend

Mumbai to Host Global Women’s Trade Summit on October 4-5 at The Westin, Powai

Mumbai is gearing up to host the Global Women’s Trade Summit on October 4 and 5 at The Westin, Powai. Organized by the International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI) India National Chapter, the event is supported by the World Trade Centre, Mumbai, and the All India Association of Industries as knowledge partners.

A pre-summit meeting took place on Friday evening at the World Trade Center, Cuffe Parade, setting the stage for the main event.

**Theme and Objectives**

Under the theme “Women as Catalysts for Global Trade and Economic Growth,” the summit aims to highlight the pivotal role women play in driving international trade and fostering inclusive economic progress.

The platform will feature an engaging lineup of panel discussions, interactive workshops, B2B meetings, and networking opportunities designed to empower women entrepreneurs and professionals.

**Key Highlights**

One of the summit’s standout features will be sessions with women leaders who have excelled in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as mining, minerals, oil, and gas. These trailblazers will share their inspiring journeys of resilience, innovation, and leadership.

Additionally, discussions will focus on how technology and AI-driven tools are transforming businesses to be more sustainable and competitive in the global marketplace.

**Words from Dr Daphne Pillai**

Dr Daphne Pillai, President of IWFCI India, emphasized the significance of the summit:

“The summit is not just a conference; it is a movement to recognize and amplify women’s voices in global trade and enterprise. Through this summit, we aim to provide a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation, enabling women entrepreneurs and professionals to expand their horizons and contribute meaningfully to global economic growth.”

**International Participation and Industry Representation**

Delegates from countries including Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Uzbekistan, South Africa, India, and the USA will attend the summit. They represent diverse industries such as supply chains, insurance, real estate, hospitality, IT services, law, and finance.

**Commitment to Empowerment**

IWFCI India reiterated that the summit reaffirms its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs and professionals as vital contributors to global trade and innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates as Mumbai prepares to welcome women leaders from across the globe to this landmark event.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-to-host-global-womens-trade-summit-this-weekend

RBI should opt for 25bps repo rate cut, says SBI

**RBI Should Opt for 25bps Repo Rate Cut, Says SBI**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 28, 2025, 04:49 PM*

A recent report by the State Bank of India (SBI) has recommended a 25 basis points (bps) cut in the repo rate ahead of the upcoming Reserve Bank of India (RBI) monetary policy meeting. This suggestion comes amid expectations of benign inflation in the near term.

However, despite SBI’s recommendation, most economists anticipate that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will maintain the status quo when it announces its decision on October 1.

### Rate Reduction: The ‘Best Possible Option’

The SBI report describes a 25bps rate cut as the “best possible option” for the RBI at this stage. Earlier this year, the central bank had already slashed the key short-term lending rate (repo) by 100bps in three installments since February, responding to a decline in consumer price index (CPI)-based inflation.

Nevertheless, some experts believe the MPC may opt to hold the current rates steady during the upcoming policy review, weighing various economic factors.

### Upcoming MPC Meeting

The MPC, headed by RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra, will convene from October 1 to 3 to discuss the policy rate. This meeting takes place against a backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent US-imposed 50% tariffs on Indian shipments.

In its August bi-monthly monetary policy review, the central bank chose to keep rates unchanged, carefully assessing how these external factors might impact India’s economy.

### Expectations and Economic Outlook

Aditi Nayar, Chief Economist at ICRA, noted that GST rationalization could reduce headline CPI inflation by 25-50 basis points during Q3 FY2026 and Q2 FY2027. She also expects that October-November 2025 could mark a new low for CPI inflation, although an upward trend may resume afterward.

Meanwhile, Dharmakirti Joshi of Crisil Limited expects a repo rate cut as early as October, citing lower-than-expected inflation numbers and sustained strong demand.

As the MPC meeting approaches, all eyes will be on the RBI’s decision and its implications for India’s monetary policy trajectory.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/sbi-recommends-25bps-repo-rate-cut-for-upcoming-rbi-mpc/story

Turkmenistan spins textile export wins with gabardine, calico, and terry products

**State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan: Textile Enterprises Offer Large Consignments**

Several textile enterprises have presented large consignments of cotton yarn and fabrics through the State Commodity and Raw Materials Exchange of Turkmenistan. All lots are available under payment deferment terms, with FCA delivery from Ashgabat and Turkmenabat.

**Currency Rates:**

| Currency | Rate |
|———-|———|
| AZN | 40.00 |
| USD | 23.50 |
| EUR | 20.00 |
| RUB | 0.00 |

Buy orders are welcome. For more information and to place an order, please contact the exchange.
https://www.trend.az/business/4095956.html

US lawmakers seek to ‘break the ice’ in China visit amid trade, TikTok tensions

**US House Representatives Meet Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing to ‘Break the Ice’ Amid Tense US-China Relations**

A delegation of US House of Representatives members met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, expressing hopes to “break the ice” as the two global superpowers seek to stabilize their strained relationship.

This rare visit by US lawmakers comes amid a week marked by tense phone calls and high-stakes negotiations between Washington and Beijing. The trip underscores ongoing efforts to ease tensions that continue to revolve around trade disputes, the future of the popular app TikTok, and escalating military tensions in the South China Sea.

Just two days prior to the meeting, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first phone call in three months. While their discussion addressed several critical issues, including trade and security, there was no breakthrough regarding TikTok — the Chinese-owned app boasting 170 million users in the United States.

The White House reported on Saturday that a potential deal is taking shape which would place control of TikTok’s algorithm into the hands of US companies. Furthermore, US citizens would hold the majority of seats on a board overseeing TikTok’s US operations, with six out of seven board members being American.

TikTok’s algorithm is crucial as it determines the content users see, and US officials have repeatedly expressed concerns about its vulnerability to manipulation by Chinese authorities.

Despite these concerns, President Trump told reporters Saturday evening that “great American patriots” are preparing to acquire TikTok’s US operations. The app was originally slated for a ban in the US this January, but Trump has issued several orders to keep it operational while negotiations with ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company in China, continue.

“And they’re very smart technologically, and they will not let anything bad happen to TikTok,” Trump said.

Among the likely buyers of TikTok’s US operations is Oracle, the technology giant led by billionaire Larry Ellison, a longtime Trump supporter.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated in a Fox News interview on Saturday that the administration is “100 percent confident that a deal is done.” She added, “President Trump recognized the need to protect Americans’ privacy and data while also keeping this app open.”

Leavitt also emphasized TikTok’s importance, calling it “a vital part of our democratic process,” and predicted that the deal would be finalized “in the coming days.”

As both nations continue to navigate this complex relationship, the lawmakers’ visit and ongoing negotiations signal a cautious but hopeful step toward easing US-China tensions.
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/technology/us-lawmakers-seek-to-break-the-ice-in-china-visit-amid-trade-tiktok-tensions/articleshow/124036815.cms

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