Trade & Tariffs

Trump orders naval blockade of sanctioned oil tankers to and from Venezuela

Trump ordered a naval blockade on sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers, accusing Maduro's regime of terrorism and drug smuggling, intensifying US-Venezuela tensions over oil and sanctions.

India's Russian Oil Imports Remain Strong Despite Western Sanctions

India's Russian oil imports are rising in December despite sanctions, sustained by discounted pricing and non-sanctioned suppliers.

US military kills 8 in attacks on vessels near Venezuela amid increasing regional presence

The US killed eight in strikes on vessels near Venezuela, citing drug trafficking. This follows a regional military buildup, intensifying tensions with Venezuela over oil and sovereignty.

Oil tanker rates to remain high into 2026 amid fleet aging and sanctions

Oil tanker rates have surged due to sanctions removing ships and an aging fleet; high costs will likely persist into early 2026.

Rupee Depreciation Impact: 9% Real Decline Could Reshape India's Economy

The rupee's real depreciation around 9% in 2025 impacts inflation, trade balance, and corporate margins amid capital flow strain and trade deal uncertainty with the US.

France urges delay of EU-Mercosur trade deal vote over agricultural safeguards

France demands stronger safeguards before EU votes on Mercosur trade deal, aiming to protect European agriculture.

India approves 100% FDI in insurance, opens atomic energy sector to private firms, reforms higher education and trade

India's cabinet approved full foreign ownership in insurance, liberalized atomic energy for private firms, unified education regulators, and signed a trade pact with Oman to enhance economic growth.

Belarus releases 123 prisoners including Ales Bialiatski as US lifts potash sanctions

Belarus freed 123 prisoners and gained US potash sanctions relief after diplomatic talks.

Belarus frees 123 prisoners as the US lifts potash sanctions

Belarus released prisoners as the US lifted potash sanctions, signaling a thaw despite EU non-recognition of Lukashenko.

India Cabinet Approves Major Economic Reforms Including 100% FDI in Insurance and Atomic Energy Liberalisation

India's Union Cabinet approved reforms including 100% FDI in insurance, private involvement in atomic energy, a new higher education regulator, and a Free Trade Agreement with Oman.

Russian Oil Exports Plummet in November Amid US Sanctions Concerns: IEA

Russian oil exports dropped considerably in November due to US sanctions fears, causing revenue declines and lower global oil supply, while demand is forecasted to grow in 2025 and 2026.

US Sanctions Six More Ships Following Seizure of Venezuelan Oil Tanker

The US has seized a Venezuelan oil tanker and sanctioned six more ships carrying oil, targeting President Maduro's regime amid allegations of drug trafficking and illegal oil shipments.