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Government Vows Unwavering Support for Exporters
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has assured that the Indian government will deploy "every policy tool and the export promotion mission" to aid exporters navigating the escalating crisis in West Asia. This commitment comes as geopolitical tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran trigger significant disruptions for global trade routes.
Exporters Face Mounting Logistics Challenges
Exporters have reported substantial challenges, including soaring freight rates, increased demurrage charges, extended shipping routes, and a scarcity of containers. These issues stem directly from the ongoing conflict, placing immense pressure on logistics costs and supply chain reliability. The government has responded by establishing a dedicated help desk and an inter-ministerial group that engages with exporters daily to gather feedback and assess the situation.
Dialogue for Resolution
Minister Goyal indicated that the commerce ministry is actively engaged in dialogue with the Ministry of Shipping and various shipping companies. The goal is to find resolutions for the immediate concerns, particularly regarding cargo ships currently held up in the Persian Gulf. Goyal expressed hope for a swift resolution to these logistical bottlenecks.
Maintaining Global Commitments
Despite the current volatility, India remains committed to fulfilling its international obligations. Goyal underscored India's proven track record, citing its ability to meet all commitments even during the Covid-19 pandemic. This reliability, he noted, has earned India the designation of a trusted partner, a status the government intends to maintain. Official data indicates India imported goods worth approximately $157 billion from the West Asian region in 2025, while its exports to these economies stood at around $67 billion.