1.   

India-China border trade begins with new hopes

After the Indian government included 12 more in the list of trade items, the trade between India and China is resuming with new hopes. "This year only 34 persons have applied for trade passes," Mohan Singh Negi, tehsildhar of Pooh in Kinnaur district, told HindustanTimes. Five days back, the first batch of five traders left for Shipki village in China-controlled Tibet.

2.   

India, New Zealand discuss ways to boost cooperation

India and New Zealand today discussed ways to give boost to bilateral cooperation in key areas, including trade and investment and science and technology. During the Foreign Office consultations in Wellington, New Zealand, the two sides also exchanged views on regional and global issues, a Ministry of External Affairs release said here.

3.   

State-run banks asked to settle bilateral trade deals in local currency

The government has directed state-run banks to encourage local currency payments for bilateral trade transactions, a move that will cut down transaction costs and help mitigate currency risks along with spurring regional trade. "The move is expected to curb the risk of exchange rate volatility and also ensure closer relations among the banking systems in the two countries," said a finance ministry official, requesting anonymity.

4.   

Indian firms partake in Saudi agri exhibition

Thirty-eight Indian companies, under the banner of India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), are participating in the four-day Saudi Agro Food 2012 exhibition that opens today (Sept. 24) at Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre. The Indian Ministry of Food Processing Industries, and the government’s Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) are taking part in the event.