1.   

Anand Sharma meets export bodies to firm up steps to boost trade

Ahead of the next Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma today held consultations with exporters to firm up steps to boost exports which have been impacted by global slowdown. "We have had three rounds with CII, with FICCI and now with FIEO over this (FTP). All the exports council's recommendations are with us. We will look at them seriously and take the best possible way forward," Sharma told reporters after the meeting.

2.   

Malaysia keen on exploring trade relations with India

Malaysia today expressed keen interest in exploring bilateral trade relations with India. Newly appointed Consul-General of Malaysia in Chennai, Chitra Devi Ramiah, who called on Tamil Nadu Governor K Rosaiah, said she looked forward for promotion of cultural exchange, exploring more avenues in trade and investments between the two countries. In her brief interaction with the Governor at the Raj Bhavan, Ramiah said students from Malaysia were keen on pursuing medical and dentistry education in India.

3.   

Govt rules out banning onion export

Government today ruled out banning export of onion saying the spurt in domestic prices was "temporary" caused by unseasonable rains and mandi closures. "We have adequate stocks (of onion). We have no shortage and position is as such comfortable," commerce minister Anand Sharma said during Question Hour in Rajya Sabha. Only surplus production after taking into account all of domestic consumption, is allowed to be exported, he said, adding domestic production of onion at 17 million tons is more than the demand of about 15 million tons.

4.   

India-Africa conclave to focus on trade and investment

The 9th edition of the India-Africa conclave, organised by CII & Exim Bank, is being held in Delhi between 17 & 19 March and is focussed on creating a partnership for south-south co-operation that can act as a catalyst for enhanced partnership in the areas of trade and investment between India and the African nations. Some of the high profile participants this year include Philemon Yang, Prime Minister, Cameroon; Guy Scott, vice president, Zambia; Daniel Kablan Duncan, Prime Minister, Cote d'Ivoire and Y Museveni, President of Uganda.