1.   

Centre to purge small hurdles in big export push

The finance ministry has suggested that small administrative and procedural changes rather than reforms can go a long way to boost exports. A working paper authored by senior economic advisor H A C Prasad in the ministry has listed poor port facilities, unwanted paperwork and multiple documentation as major hurdles. These can be rectified at no cost to the exchequer – and rectified forthwith.

2.   

Belarus seeks investments from India

Belarus Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich on Wednesday sought more Indian investments in his country, asking business leaders to increase cooperation in sectors like heavy engineering goods and fertiliser to boost economic ties. Accompanied by a business delegation, Myasnikovich, who is on a day-long trip, said both sides can increase engagement in sectors like pharmaceutical, biotechnology and information technology.

3.   

'I'll contribute to policy implementation in agriculture': Tariq Anwar

After taking charge as minister of state for agriculture and food processing industries, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Tariq Anwar said he would not only concentrate on mainline agriculture but also on allied sectors such as dairying and animal husbandry. During his felicitation programme in Mumbai on November 11, Anwar informed FnB news via telephone, “I am very thankful to Sharad Pawar, the agriculture minister, for showing interest in me and giving me an oppotunity to be a state agriculture and food processing minister.

4.   

World wheat trade higher this month

World wheat trade for the international 2012/13 July-June trade year is projected higher this month by 2.7 million tons, to 138.8 million. China’s imports are projected 1.0 million tons higher to 2.5 million, reflecting strong pace of imports in the past month and recent purchases from various major exporters. Wheat imports in the EU-27 are boosted 0.5 million tons, mainly on account of lower wheat availability in the United Kingdom, where there are reportedly shortages of milling-quality wheat.