India News: India's commerce and industry minister, Piyush Goyal, stated that India will strongly address the carbon tax issue with the European Union (EU). Goyal mentioned that India will respond in a free and fair manner within the rules of international trade, including retaliating, taking countermeasures, and having discussions. He highlighted the concern over the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and stated that India will address it bilaterally with the EU and within the rules of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
Most EU member states support the decision proposed by the European Commission regarding the export of Ukrainian grain and against the grain blockade. Source: European Pravda, citing RMF FM and Reuters Details: Spanish Agriculture Minister Luis Planas Puchades said that the European Commission has done a good job.
The European Commission called upon Poland, Hungary and Slovakia to be constructive after declaring a unilateral extension of the ban on Ukrainian grain imports. Source: Reuters Quote: "We are aware of some Member States' announcements in respect to unilateral measures.
The European Union said Friday it was ending an import ban on Ukrainian grain in five member states, but Poland, Hungary and Slovakia immediately announced they would defy the move. But despite the reassurances, Poland, Hungary and then Slovakia promptly announced they would extend the bans in their countries.
The WTO warns of growing fragmentation in international trade due to a ninefold increase in trade concerns raised in the last six years. Unilateral measures by countries such as export restrictions and green policies could lead to a more fragmented world dominated by regional trade blocs. The WTO urges a renewed drive towards integration to tackle security, poverty, and climate change. The rise of new industrial strategies and geopolitical tensions are also contributing to the decline of international trade.