Import Export Industry News - Gems and Jewellery News

Pro-India Trade Policy – I

2008-08-04T10:24:00.001+05:30

The first Trade Policy-2008-09 of the PPP government has been announced without mentioning import target. According to the policy, imports cannot be quantified due to continuous instability in the oil and food prices in international markets. This means all previous commerce ministers of Pakistan as well as world were fool to make import targets. However, the export target was fixed at $ 22.10 billion, representing an increase of 15 percent over the last year, the same rate achieved in 2007-08.

The policy said the government has tried to draw up a trade policy that has a new direction and vision and will have an impact on the lives of those who are the neediest. How it will impact positively the poor's lives was not indicated, presently it is impacting negatively.

Moreover, it seems that the government has unofficially given the status of 'Most Favoured Nation' (MFN) to India. Commerce Minister, Chaudhry Ahmed Mukhtar said India is our neighbour and we are gradually liberalising our bilateral trade. The composite dialogue process, especially on economic and commercial cooperation has been instrumental in addressing the bilateral issues. We are announcing to enlarge the list of importable items from India, which is based on the requests of our stakeholders, which stakeholder requested them was not mentioned. The whole business community, except a few, is opposing imports from India. They said commerce minister has announced a policy which only encouraged imports from India while exports to that country was totally ignored.

The policy said cheaper raw material sourced from India would make exports more competitive in international markets. Import of diesel and fuel oil from India allowed, because it will be cheaper due to the difference in transportation cost. This will also help us to address our global trade deficit. How it will reduce the global trade deficit is not known.

Customs duty on the import of CNG buses was already reduced from 15 percent to zero in the budget 2008-09. Moreover, in case any Indian manufacturer of CNG buses makes a firm commitment to establish manufacturing of such buses in Pakistan, the Ministry of Commerce may provide special dispensation for import of 10 buses via Wahga from each possible investor as test consignment.

The policy expanded the list of importable items from India, not expected to be reciprocated. The Indian import policy allowed only a small number of imports from Pakistan. The Commerce Minister also restricted trade with India to Wahga border and sea route; but it is expected that it may open trade through railways as well as along other border check posts.

The ministry of commerce notifies amendments in the trade policy and also issued a list of importable goods from India, in which 136 more tariff lines had been added, enhancing the list from 1802 to 1938. Pakistan has diverted its global trade worth $ 4.132 billion towards India following inclusion of 438 new importable items in the positive list during the past 10 months.

Ahmad Mukhtar also announced a new scheme designed to improve exports. The over and above three existing schemes, namely duty and tax remission and export scheme (DTREs) - allowed to even those Indian imports that are not included in the 1938 total tariff lines - to those items that are manufactured locally and then exported, temporary import scheme as well as manufacturing bond scheme.

It is to be noted that the DTREs have been considerably misused in the past and, over and above what is available under DTREs, raises duty drawback by one percent of the FOB value for 14 traditional products, including carpets, surgical instruments and sports goods. It is hoped that the loopholes for abuse would be well plugged in the new scheme.

Chaudhry Mukhtar has not mentioned of research and development (R&D) for export industry in general and the textile sector in particular. It was proposed that the government would make necessary adjustments for the textile sector's gas bills. Thus the policy ignored the textile sector at least for the time being. Due to persistent crisis in the sector and the high cost of doing business, the import of the textile machinery has declined by 13 percent. However, the government has extended the six percent R&D support programme for the apparel sector up to June 30, 2009.

Enumerating the factors on the external front he said the international oil prices have been doubled, from around $ 68 to $ 145 per barrel. The increase in the international prices of food items, especially wheat and edible oil, the depressed US economy and turmoil in the international financial markets has reduced external demand for our exports.

In spite of the challenges, on the internal and external fronts that made it difficult for exporters to fulfil their export orders on time and at competitive prices, the export sector has registered a growth of 13.23 percent during 2007-08.

On the internal front power shortages, resulted in load-shedding of electricity and gas impacted our economy. Monetary and exchange rate policies, rising costs of salary bills and raw material, were other factors. While the government itself has increased salaries for Rs 4,000 to Rs 6,000, therefore, no one can be blamed for higher salary bills. Blaming increasing competition in export markets cannot be justified because it is not only for Pakistan but all countries are facing the same problem.

The large-scale manufacturing registered a growth of only 4.8 percent as compared to 8.6 percent last year. Last year the export target was $ 19.22 billion, which was $ 2.2 billion higher than the $ 17 billion achieved in 2006-07. During the year the exports of services were $ 2.9 billion and defence-related exports amounted to $ 63.9 million. Performance of textile group was not satisfactory as the exports were $ 9591.9 million i.e., $ 245.8 million or 2.5 percent less than last year. In spite of this decrease the overall exports growth was 13 percent.

Pakistan exports a few categories such as cotton manufactures and synthetic textiles, leather, rice and sports goods, concentrating on seven products only to seven countries. They collectively accounted for around 72.4 percent of the total exports. In terms of markets also, traditionally 50 percent of exports go to seven countries namely the US, Germany, Japan, UK, Hong Kong, Dubai and Saudi Arabia. The trend from 2003-04 to 2006-07 shows that the growth of exports during this period was around 114 percent in Latin America, 81 percent in Africa and 60 percent in the European group of countries.

The policy said it would help reduce costs of doing business, enhancing competitiveness of exports, but what measures are being taken was not indicated while gas, electricity and oil prices increase making products more costlier. The minister said in order to reduce cost of manufacturing and to make our exports more competitive, it has been decided that:

Plant, machinery and equipment imported to set up a unit in DTRE scheme will be exempted from duty and taxes. Inputs in DTRE will also be allowed to be imported from India.

Pakistani seafood is facing difficulty in exports, therefore it has been decided to undertake following measures to support the sea food sector:

Consultancy services will be arranged through FAO/INFOFISH for aquaculture; peeling shed at Karachi Fish Harbour will be set up in coordination with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and Sindh government. Funding will be arranged through the Public Sector Development Programme. Training programme for fishermen in catching of fish will be arranged by the Sindh government. Initial programme of training for trainers will be arranged in collaboration with TDAP. It is expected that these steps will help the fishers sector to enhance exports.

Gems and jewellery is one of the non-traditional items and to encourage the exports and investment all anti-export biases, gold, silver, platinum, palladium, diamond and precious stones has been exempted from levy of customs duties and sales tax. Mining industry is facing serious problems of availability of good quality stones for further processing due to old style blasting which creates wastage of precious resources. It has been decided that the import of machinery/equipment for mining/quarrying and grinding of minerals (along with spares) would be allowed from India. However, it is difficult to hope that this industry would develop as a consequence of this policy.
Source-thepost.com.pk

Hundreds ‘dig in dirt’ at Herkimer Diamond Mines

2008-08-04T10:18:00.000+05:30

HERKIMER —Hundreds of local and out-of-state residents looking for something to do over the weekend found their way to the Gems Festival at the Herkimer Diamond Mines.

Andy Hall, of Morgantown, W.Va., toured the mines’ museum Sunday with his children and girlfriend. He said he was impressed by the large display of Herkimer diamonds, and he was taken aback by how they can be found in the mines.

“It just kind of blows my mind – like how come we don’t have these back home?” he said.

The three-day Gems Festival wrapped up Sunday, after more than 500 people attended the primary day of the festival Saturday, Herkimer Diamond Mines associate Mike Hinman said.

“There were a lot of people,” he said. “Even though the weather was bad, it was still pretty good.”

Visitors Saturday were able to bring in gems to be appraised, participate in jewelry classes and hunt for gems. On Sunday, the museum and shop were busy, while people outside sifted through bags of rock and dirt in search of their own treasures.

Much can be found in a $10 bag, said Bill Bath and Jeanne Krull of Andover, N.J., as they added to their large collection that included Herkimer diamonds — quartz crystals that mimic diamonds — and an arrow head.

“I’m halfway through it, and I found all this,” Bath said.

Krull said they wanted to go camping, and the mines were a big draw that added to their decision to visit Herkimer.

“Who doesn’t like a little digging in the dirt or playing in the water every now and then?” she said.

Bath and Krull said they planned to buy souvenirs for their friends and pass along a good word about the area.

“It’s nice up here,” Bath said.

Michael Christian and his son, Judah, 10, also rummaged through rocks Sunday. They used a sluice box to hold the larger findings while water pushed away the dirt and smaller rocks.

They just moved to Skaneateles from Seattle in March, and Sunday was already their second visit to the mines, Michael Christian said.

“He’s pretty astute in it,” Michael Christian said of his son. “He can name the rocks; I can’t.”

Shortly after, it proved to be true.

“I found another one,” Judah Christian said as he grabbed a clear, pinkish gem. After his father asked what it was, Judah said he thought it was a rose quartz.

As they continued to look, Michael Christian raised his head and smiled.

“It’s just cool to do this kind of stuff with your kids,” he said.

Source-uticaod.com

Govt mulls ban on soda ash export to hold prices

2008-08-02T10:28:00.000+05:30

NEW DELHI: Taking the war on inflation to new frontiers, the government is considering a proposal to ban exports of soda ash and encourage imports of the commodity that goes into construction material such as glass and bricks.

This is in addition to the proposals currently under consideration of the chemicals and fertilisers ministry. The ministry is examining slashing excise duty on major petrochemical inputs.

The idea is also to ease the raw material constraint faced by small manufacturers of glass and magnesium carbonate. Soda ash or sodium carbonate is also used by the brick industry as a wetting agent to reduce the amount of water needed to process clay.

According to the user industry, prices have moved up by at least a third in the last eight months. Prices are on an upward spiral globally too. The world’s largest soda ash maker Brussels-based Solvay SA said on Thursday it is considering to raise prices by 50%, according to overseas news reports.

In the domestic market, the material which used to cost Rs 10,000 a metric tonne in March last year, is sold at about Rs 14,750 a metric tonne now. Chemical companies are contemplating further increase in prices now. They claim that banning exports and pressurising producing companies to lower prices would address their raw material shortage. The government is likely to take a call on the issue shortly. It has asked industry associations like Alkali Manufacturers Association of India to give its feedback on the issue.

Inflation based on wholesale prices is now at an alarmingly high level of 11.98%. With polls in six states later this year and general elections early next year, the government is determined not to leave any possible measure in its efforts to cool prices.
Source-indiatimes.com

Mid-Atlantic Animal Import Center Feasibility Study Released

2008-08-02T10:26:00.000+05:30

The Maryland Department of Agriculture's Maryland Horse Industry Board today released the Mid-Atlantic Animal Import Center Feasibility Study, which identified the Midfield Cargo Complex of the Thurgood Marshall Baltimore Washington International Airport as the best potential site for the Center.

"The time it takes to ship a horse overseas begins from the time that animal leaves the barn to the time it plants its hoof in the soil of its new home. Adding a five to 15 hour van ride on top of the time in flight is not cost effective and causes additional stress on the animals being shipped," said Agriculture Secretary Roger Richardson. "A permanent Mid-Atlantic Animal Import and Export Center could reduce the cost of shipment for horse owners and buyers, and reduce the stress on transported horses thereby increasing the overall condition and productivity of animals shipped overseas."

The study also detailed the process of importing and exporting live equine to and from the United States. Currently, only three permanent centers accept horses for importation in the United States.

The center was deemed feasible if coupled with another entity such as a state laboratory or animal health center. Due to the seasonality of the shipment of horses, with the strongest peaks occurring between the months of December and January operating the facility jointly with another entity could better utilize staff, optimize operations, and create new jobs and economic impact for the region.

The study was funded by a combination of public and private, federal, and state entities, including the USDA through the Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program, the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Maryland Horse Industry Board, the Maryland Horse Industry Foundation, and the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development.

The study was conducted by the private firm Owl Creek Consulting of Berlin, Md., in cooperation with the Business, Economic, and Community Outreach Network of the Franklin P. Perdue School of Business at Salisbury University.

Export sector strengthening: Ricketts

2008-08-01T09:59:00.000+05:30

The significance of strengthening the country exports is clearly reflected through the interim Governments creation of new policies to boost the export industry, says interim Minister for Trade and industry, Tom Ricketts.

Interim Government policies such as the National Export Strategy and its continuing emphasis on the private sector development road map and the Fiji Export council are some of the creations.

Mr Ricketts, speaking at the launching of the Fiji Island Trade and Investment Bureau organised 2008 DHL Exporters of the Year Award, said the theme of "Exports Enhancement: The path to economic growth", couldnt have arrived at a better timing when present challengers faced our exporters.

Meanwhile, the interim Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry had earlier stated that the exports sector has seen steady growth and the economy is benefiting from its re-exports of mineral fuels given the dramatic increase in the global fuel price.

"Exports for the first 5 months of 2008 totalled $507 million- up 24.2 per cent over the same period in 2007, a much improved performance compared to 2005 and 2006," he said.

Source-fijitimes.com

Tyre industry demands duty-free import

2008-08-01T09:54:00.000+05:30

Kochi: With a serious crunch operating in the availability of natural rubber (NR), the tyre industry has reiterated its demand for duty-free import of 1 lakh tonnes of NR without any further delay.

The tyre industry, that consumes 57 per cent of the natural rubber produced in the country, is facing the worst ever raw material availability crisis. Over the last few days, the availability of sheet rubber has been woefully inadequate to meet the requirement of the industry that is already bearing the brunt of high rubber prices, Rajiv Budhraja, Director General, and Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association, said. Currently, domestic NR prices are ruling at a higher level than even international prices. Natural rubber accounts for 41 per cent of the raw material cost in the tyre industry, he said.

“It has never happened that the very availability of sheet rubber becomes an issue despite the fact that the natural rubber prices have touched a historic high. The average landed price of NR was Rs 134 during July, which is 51 per cent higher than the average price in September last year,” he said.

Anticipating price

Despite the fact that the production of natural rubber has gone up by almost 30 per cent during April-July this year, the industry is facing the crunch. On the contrary, consumption has gone up by only 21 per cent in the said period. It is believed that rubber growers and traders are holding on to the stock in anticipation of further rise in the prices of rubber, he alleged.

“The supply crunch, if continued, is likely to seriously disrupt production schedules of tyre companies. We therefore urge the government for immediate intervention by way of allowing the duty-free import of 1 lakh tonnes of natural rubber to tide over the current crisis,” Budhraja said.

A demand-supply imbalance is unfortunate for a commodity where a fine balance can be achieved if producing and consuming interests work in tandem. The production-consumption gap, which was 49 per cent during April-July 2007, has narrowed down to 22 per cent in April-July 2008.

The industry will, unfortunately, need to look for increased imports if the existing availability crisis does not subside, he added.

Source-sify.com

India's Gems & Jewellery Exports Likely To Grow By 15%-20%

2008-07-31T11:16:00.000+05:30

India's gems and jewellery exports are expected to grow by 15%-20% in the current financial year, according to the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council's-GJEPC estimates, reported the media.

The overall exports of gems and jewellery for the first quarter ended June 30, 2008 rose 22.7% to Rs. 21,602 crores, from Rs.18, 050 crores in the year ago period. The overall exports of cut and polished diamonds was Rs.15, 402 crores for the June quarter, revealing a 31% growth from the comparable period last year. Imports of rough diamonds were up 27.6% at Rs.13, 172 crores.

Data from GJEPC however, showed that trade in cut and polished diamonds has declined 5.5%. This is because the imports of polished diamonds have grown much faster than exports. Gold jewellery exports decreased 4.1% in the first quarter ended June 30, 2008.

The Chairman of GJEPC, Sanjay Kothari reportedly attributed the high commodity prices and global economic slowdown to the sluggish business and said that he expects the international trade show in India would help boost interest, added the report.
Source-rttnews.com

Dubai to Host Diamond & Jewellery Summit

2008-07-31T11:02:00.000+05:30

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) announced Tuesday that it will organise the first Dubai Diamond and Jewellery Summit, with the objective of providing the international jewellery trade with a forum to initiate relationships in the Middle East - the fastest growing market for diamonds.

The inaugural two-day summit will focus on Middle East-China diamond and jewellery trade, and will be held from November 8 - 9, 2008 at the Atlantis Hotel, Palm Jumeirah.

The summit builds on a visit to China by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, and reinforces ongoing efforts to further strengthen trade relations between both countries. It also follows two strategic agreements signed earlier this year by DMCC with the Government of Panyu, China and with the Gems & Jewellery Trade Association of China, for increased cooperation towards mutual growth and promotion of diamond and jewellery trade.

Diamond trade in the UAE alone witnessed record growth in 2007, crossing the stellar $10 billion mark. Dubai's rough diamond trade alone witnessed a 32 percent growth in the first quarter of 2008 as compared witho 2007, standing at a total of $1.5 billion while polished diamond trade reached $2.7 billion. The Chinese jewellery industry has also achieved record sales in 2007, with a growth of 11 percent compared to 2006, to reach $26 billion.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, executive chairman, DMCC said: "Emerging economies such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Egypt are all set to become the centre of the fast-growing jewellery business in the next three years, with Dubai being the natural gateway for the wider region. In fact, the UAE and Hong Kong are among the prominent markets experiencing exponential growth. This summit will focus on the growing business potential between China and the Middle East, two major global trading blocs."

According to Peter Meeus, executive director - Diamonds, DMCC, the summit will serve as a platform for the manufacturing, trading and retail jewellery communities between both countries to mutually grow trade opportunities. He added that the event is poised to further boost the diamond trade industry, promote Dubai as a major diamond hub and present DMCC as the facilitator of the growing diamond trade in the region.

Many businesses in the area of precious metals and colored stones and gems are turning their attention to the Middle East which has become one of the fastest growing consumer markets. This is reflected in the exponential increase of polished diamond imports to Dubai by 69 percent in the first quarter of this year," said Meeus.

Commenting on the opportunities for the diamond industry, Meeus said: "Although diamonds are relatively new in the Chinese and Middle Eastern markets, leading retail jewellery companies have witnessed phenomenal growth in the past decade. DMCC's strategic objective in hosting this summit is to bring these companies together and create opportunities for them to further grow their business."
Source-diamonds.net

Gems & jewellery exports likely to grow by 15-20 pc

2008-07-30T09:48:00.000+05:30

MUMBAI: India's gems and jewellery exports is likely to grow by 15-20 per cent this fiscal, a top industry official said today.

"We are expecting the whole gems and jewellery basket to grow by 15-20 per cent this year with gold export forming the major chunk of total exports," Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) Vice-Chairman Vasant Mehta told reporters here.

Gold jewellery could contribute as much as 25-30 per cent in the total export growth, he said.

India accounts for almost 55-60 per cent of the world's total diamond production and its diamond export has reached an almost saturation point, Mehta said.

"The growth in diamond export is likely to remain in single digit, he said.

Gems and jewellery include cut and polished diamonds, gold jewellery, coloured gem stones among others.

The overall export growth of gems and jewellery has seen a 22.67 per cent jump to USD 5.3 billion in the first quarter of the current fiscal as against USD 4.3 billion in the same quarter, last fiscal.
Source-indiatimes.com

Export ban on steel bars, cement?

2008-07-30T09:42:00.000+05:30

KUALA LUMPUR: Is a temporary ban on export of steel bars and cement on the cards?

It looks like the Government may impose some kind of restrictions to help the construction industry overcome the rising prices of these and other raw materials.

Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said he had received lots of requests from developers and contractors that there should be restrictions to control the outflow of essential items.

Ong said his ministry was talking with the Finance Ministry on the matter and was mindful of the fact that priority should be given to meet local demand.

However, for the moment, he felt it would be better to allow the free market system to determine the supply and demand of steel bars and cement, while the Government closely monitors escalating prices and their supplies.

“But if the situation persists, I think the Government has to intervene. We have to make it our priority to the local industries rather than overseas market even if it (the raw material) fetches a better price,” he said.

Ong said this at a press conference after witnessing the signing of a mutual co-operation agreement between I-Bhd and Kompakar Group for the development of a Tier 4 Ready Data Centre in the RM2bil i-City integrated commercial-cum-residential development in Shah Alam.

Meanwhile, the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) has warned that many medium and small contractors from Class D, E and F may be forced to stop, delay or even abandon projects as a result of the steep price hike of essential building materials.

“The Government should act quickly. If the situation continues to worsen, it should step in and ban export of steel bars and clinkers to ensure building materials manufacturers would supply the needs of the local construction industry first,” said MBAM president Ng Kee Leen.

He said the 10% import tax for cement should be waived as well because contractors and developers were facing great pricing pressure and any form of import tax relief would be appreciated.

Although cement liberalisation was announced on June 5, Ng said the import of cement was still not in place due to logistics.

With liberalisation, cement price had continued to rise from RM10.90 during the government price control period to RM13.20 (22% up) immediately after liberalisation and now another increase by RM1, or 30%, per 50kg bag to RM14.25.

In the case of steel bars, he said, although it was liberalised on May 12, the liberalisation process was not well implemented.

“It was difficult to import steel bars and there are still cases of Customs Department officers demanding for approved permits and/or impose import duty on certain steel bars.

“MBAM hopes the Government would simplify (matters) by making clear the process to import steel bars for local construction use,” he added.

MBAM also requested cement and steel bar manufacturers to provide at least six months' lead time for any announcement on price increase to enable contractors to allocate provisions to mitigate their cost.

Ng said the Lafarge Malayan Cement Bhd's announcement on price increase for cement effective Aug 1 would hurt the construction industry.

Meanwhile, ready-mixed concrete operators in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur yesterday announced revised prices for ready-mixed concrete of various grades by 5.2% to 6.2% effective Aug 1.

Source-thestar.com.my

India FY09 gems, jewellery exports seen up 20 pct

2008-07-29T15:47:00.000+05:30

MUMBAI, July 29 (Reuters) - India's gems and jewellery exports are expected to rise by 15 to 20 percent in the current fiscal year, the top official of an exporters' body said on Tuesday. "Every year it has been growing around that rate... this year also it will grow by 15-20 percent," said Sanjay Kothari, chairman of The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council, at a press meet to announce a trade exhibition next month in Mumbai.

In fiscal 2007-08, net exports of gems and jewellery were at $20.9 billion, data from the Council showed.

Kothari said the global economic slowdown and high inflation would affect the business, but trade shows such as the one next month will "persuade people to increase their spending power." (Reporting by Ruchira Singh; Editing by Harish Nambiar)

Source by in.reuters.com

NDRC considering hike in export tax on coke

2008-07-29T10:08:00.000+05:30

It is reported that China’s National Development and Reform Commission held a foreign trade policy conference on July 22 to discuss import and export policies for some products. NDRC officials solicited opinions from related industry analysts and did not comment on coke export tariff rise.

A senior official from CCIA believes that export tariff on coke would rise in the second half of this year.

Mr Huang Jingan chairman of China Coking Industry Association also attended the conference. Mr Huang said earlier that China may raise export tariff on coke, in view of tight domestic supply and increasing exports.

Mr Gao Hucheng vice minister of Ministry of Commerce also iterated on July 22nd that the country should restricts exports of heavy polluting, energy intensive and resource intensive products.

Banning sugar export, allowing imports can hurt industry, farmers: PSMA

2008-07-29T10:05:00.000+05:30

The government’s decision of banning sugar export and allowing import will destroy the local industry and this will make the farmers prone to become the victims of the sugar-mafia, industry stakeholders told Daily Times Monday.

They lamented that it seems the decision is aimed to provide relief to Indian farmers at the expense of local industry and farmers.

Industry sources observed that the local stocks are already in surplus and there was no need of importing the commodity. They said that the decision would ultimately help the Indian farmers and the local farmers would be at losing end, as the sugar mills have already not paid the farmers for sugarcane.

“When imported sugar will land in the country, the stocks of sugar mills would not be sold and the millers would cut the payments of sugarcane growers,” the sources said. In the past India sent sugar to Afghanistan through transit trade but majority of stocks were dumped illegally in Pakistan. They said that around 200,000 tonnes of sugar landed in Peshawar market and it pushed the sugar industry towards crisis while the payments to sugarcane growers were delayed and in many cases no payment was made to the growers.

Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) Vice Chairman, Iskandar M Khan said that the government should have allowed import of raw sugar only, as it would have been more beneficial. “The raw sugar is cheaper in the international market while the refined sugar is expensive,” Khan said. Currently refined sugar costs $400 (freightage cost inclusive) while raw sugar is available for $200 only. He said calculating all the taxes one would find that imported sugar will be prices at Rs 30to Rs 31 per Kg. “There would be no price parity of local and imported sugar but it would create problems for the millers, who already have surplus sugar stocks,” he said.

“The refining of raw sugar also creates employment opportunities while having a downward impact on prices thereby providing much-needed relief for the consumers,” Khan said.

He decried that the decision would have negative impacts on the economy. He accused that India will send its “injurious to health” sugar to Pakistan.

He said that the PSMA has assured the government for selling the sugar at Rs 30 per Kg but no one paid any attention.

Farmers Association Pakistan Coordinator, Muhammad Idrees Khokhar, said that the sugarcane payments of farmers were already delayed and the decision would be a major set back for them. “The government, before taking any decision, should take all the stakeholders into confidence,” he demanded.

Source-dailytimes.com.pk

Indian imports to flood Pak markets New trade policy sets $22.10bn exports target

2008-07-28T18:26:00.000+05:30

The new trade policy sets the export target at $22.10 billion and limits the country’s imports bill to $30 billion as compared with the last year’s $39.97 billion. At the same time, the policy eases restrictions on import of various items from India.

Federal Commerce Minister, Ch Ahmed Mukhtar announcing the trade policy on the state TV said, “Cheaper raw material from India will make Pakistan’s exports more competitive in the international market. The trade policy will allow the import of diesel and fuel oil from India to also help address the growing trade deficit.”

The government has decided to allow the import of machinery or equipment for mining, quarrying and grinding of minerals from India, he said. In the new trade policy, importable items like CNG buses, stainless steel, cotton yarn, academic, scientific and professional books, specialised printers, laminators and rollers would be allowed from India.

The import of these items from India would also help address the trade deficit, said the policy. In order to enhance exports of minerals and rice, the new trade policy will also allow imports of mining and paddy machinery from India.

The minister said if we look at the performance of various export sectors in comparison with the available detailed figures for 11 months from July 2007 to May 2008 during the same period of the previous year, there was an overall increase of $1.755 billion.

The minister had earlier postponed his press briefing scheduled for Saturday on the direction of the prime minister in view of the prime minister’s first TV address to the nation. However, he asked the media men to attend the briefing soon after the PM’s address. Later, briefing the journalists at the Prime Minister Secretariat, the minister emphasized the need for effective measures to arrest the growing gap in trade deficit affecting the economy. He attributed a number of unavoidable factors, which contributed to the deficit gap to rise to $20.7 billion.

“We inherited a very difficult economic situation where the public is facing more hardships than it has in the recent history,” he said. This was due to external and internal factors of the past year, he added. Moreover, the commerce minister said the doubling of international oil prices from around $68 per barrel to $145 per barrel during the year and increase in international prices of food items Pakistan needed to import during the year, especially wheat and edible oil, enhanced the import bill.

“The total imports during the year 2007-08 amounted to $39.97 billion, raising the trade deficit of $20.7 billion”, he added. He emphasised the need for promotion of regional trade, which according to him, was the only way to reduce freight and trade deficit.

The new trade policy for 2008-09 enlarges the list of importable items from India, which is based on the requests of stakeholders. The list will be issued separately later. About giving Most Favour Nation (MFN) status to India, he said it did not suit Pakistan as India had technical and other trade barriers whereas Pakistan did not have such restrictions.

When asked about R&D scheme for textile, the minister who also has additional charge of commerce & textile ministries said that he would hold a meeting with the prime minister today (Saturday) and hopefully, the issue would be settled.

Imports measures: To any Indian manufacturer of CNG buses who makes a firm commitment to establish manufacturing unit of such buses in Pakistan, the commerce ministry may provide special dispensation for import of 10 buses by road via Wagah from each possible investor as test consignment.

Under TR scheme, import of buses not more than 10 years old are allowed. This facility will help the returning overseas Pakistanis with limited means to create an economic opportunity for themselves as well as ease the shortage of such buses on inter-city routes.

Imports of used cryogenic containers/cylinders by industrial consumers, cement trailers, without prime movers in second-hand/used condition, prime movers with age limit of 5 yeas and minimum fleet requirement of 5 prime movers were also allowed.

In order to reduce the cost of raw material imports and thereby make the country’s indigenous export products more competitive, the import of job lots and stock lots of raw material, which attracts duty up to 5pc would now be allowed.

Similarly, imports of old/used waste disposal trucks of municipal bodies (the imported trucks shall not be older than 10 years) will also be allowed. Stainless steel and cotton yarn is importable from India by train. In order to further reduce the cost of doing business, it has been decided to allow their import by trucks through Wagah as well.

Import of academic, scientific and reference books, specialised printers, laminators and laminator rolls used for printing visa stickers and passports by Nadra would be allowed from India. Only recognised manufacturers would be allowed to import crude palm oil for further processing and refining. Furthermore, manufacturers who import palm oil in crude form will not be allowed to sell it to non-manufacturers. However, commercial importers who have invested in large bulk storages will be allowed to continue importing crude palm oil subject to a safeguard mechanism to be drawn up by FBR.

Import of CFC-based compressors remains banned. The imports of rollers would be allowed, but not more than 10 years old, and the capacity should not exceed 12 tons. Export measures: As export enhancing measures, the new trade policy suggests the intensification of market intelligence, trade promotion, enhancing competitiveness, coordination with other public departments, improving physical infrastructure, discouraging subsidies, diversification and encouraging quality.

Plant, machinery and equipment imported to set up a unit in DTRE scheme will be exempt from duty and taxes. Import of inputs for DTRE will also be allowed from India, even if these are not included in the importable items from India, or manufactured locally.

To increase the exports of gem and jewellery and to encourage investment and remove all anti-export biases, gold, silver, platinum, palladium, diamond and precious stones would be exempted from levy of customs duties and sales tax.

Exporters are allowed to send $25,000 worth of samples to foreign buyers. Since automobiles have higher unit value therefore it has now been decided to increase the limit to $50,000 in the case of automobiles.

The TDAP with its revamping would also establish new clusters of surgical instruments, gloves and personal protective equipment, sports wear, leather & leather products in Sialkot and Charsadda, weaving and textile processing sector in Faisalabad, light engineering sector in Gujranwala, auto parts in Lahore, ceramics in Multan and Halla, ajrak and bangles in Hyderabad/Halla and embroidery in Balochistan.

APP adds: Earlier, the federal cabinet in a special meeting with Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani in chair approved the Export Policy 2008-09 emphasising increase in country’s exports.

The cabinet also approved in principle the establishment of NFC University of Engineering and Technology in Multan to cater for ever-increasing demand for higher education of students of Southern Punjab.

The prime minister had announced the up-gradation of the Institute of Engineering and Technology Multan in May. Presently the Institute of Engineering and Technology Multan is affiliated with Bahauddin Zakriya University and is conducting B.Sc courses in the disciplines of Chemical Engineering and Computer Engineering. The Higher Education Commission recommended the up-gradation of the institute to the status of university level as a degree awarding institution.

Source-paktribune.com

First Ever International Jewellery Fair in South India Comes to an End on a High Note

2008-07-28T18:21:00.000+05:30

HYDERABAD, India, July 28, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ ----The curtains finally came down on the much awaited Hyderabad Jewellery, Pearl & Gem Fair 2008 organised by CMP, which brought to an end 4 days of intense business interactions between exhibitors, trade visitors and buyers, both from India and overseas. 10,223 visitors attended the exhibition from throughout India.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080728/NYM067 )

The Hyderabad Jewellery, Pearl & Gem Fair 2008 was inaugurated on Thursday, 24 July by the Hon'ble Dr. (Mrs.) J Geeta Reddy, Minister for Major Industries, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh. Speaking to the presspersons after the inauguration she said the fair would provide an opportunity to entrepreneurs to learn about the global trends of the industry. She added that the state government was setting up an exclusive jewellery mall in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad with all modern amenities and requested the industry players to utilize this opportunity.

Leading exhibitors from India and overseas showcased the most exquisite fine finished jewellery, pearls, diamonds, gems and other precious stones at the HITEX Exhibition Centre. A vast range of international designs were on display at the fair including diamonds from Antwerp and diamond-studded jewellery from Thailand & Hong Kong. A jewellery encrusted car from an overseas exhibitor was a special attraction with crowds thronging to catch a glimpse of it. Another overseas exhibitor displaying wellness jewelry had such a fantastic response that they had booked all products on display and were only very happy to book further orders.

The first two days saw a steady stream of trade visitors and High Net Worth Individual's who were keen to know about the latest designs in fine jewellery crafted out of the finest diamonds, pearls, gold, gems, precious and semi precious stones. All the major Jewellery Associations from South India were there in full strength with their member delegations in large numbers and they were very impressed with the wide variety of jewellery on display, both form India and overseas. These delegations were very well received by the exhibitors who ensured that the delegations spent their time fruitfully.

Over the next 2 days, visitors came in large numbers and were very excited and impressed with the innumerable choices and a wide range of designer jewellery in fascinating styles that were on display at a single location. By the end of the closing day, many exhibitors went home with good business done and were very optimistic that the contacts made at the fair will translate into firm business deals. Cine and other celebrities also added sparkle to HJF'08 and left with lasting impressions of the high quality and wide variety of jewellery on display at the fair.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. M. Gandhi, Managing Director of CMP India, the organisers, said, "We definitely intend to make this an annual feature. Our intentions are very much to have a longstanding relationship with the jewellery fraternity here in India."

On day two, an evening of jewellery and beauty dazzled exhibitors and select invitees at a glittering fashion show at the HICC Convention Centre.

CMP organized HJF'08 with the support of the Twin Cities Jewellers Association, Hitech City Jewellery Manufacturers Association and A.P. Gold, Silver, Jewellery & Diamond Merchants Association and the Jewellery Manufacturers Association - Kerala.

Quotes from Exhibitors & Visitors

"This is the first time we are in South India. The response over the last four days has been fantastic. Customers here are well-informed and knowledgeable about diamonds and we are happy with the response we have had to our product line. We are sure that the business contacts we have made over the last 4 days will yield excellent business. We look forward to once again coming back next year." Smart Arts, Exhibitor from Thailand

"The visitor attendance has been overwhelming. The quality of visitors has been excellent and we have been able to establish contact with a lot of highly potential trade visitors from all over the country. We are sure that this will translate into meaningful business. Our sincere thanks and appreciation to CMP, the organizers, for putting together an excellent Show. Your credentials as a global leader in Jewellery fairs stands vindicated with the super success of HJF 2008. Keep up the good work!!!" Inder Prakash Agarwal, Proprietor, Ram Prasad & Sons, Exhibitor.

"Very impressed with the vast array of jewellery on display at the fair. Was happy to see for the first time a number of international jewellery houses showcasing their products in South India". Mr. Appa Rao, Jewellery Merchant Trichur

"Was happy for the opportunity to interact with an excellent cross section of jewellery manufacturers from both India and abroad. Closed some fruitful transactions and made a large number of networking contacts". R.K Raj, Jeweller, Bangalore

About CMP India

CMP India, a part of CMP Asia, is owned by United Business Media Limited, one of the world's leading global business information companies. The company's businesses include trade exhibitions across various sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food ingredients, hospitality, security, jewellery & technology sectors, conferences, online technology & print brands, health care communications and news distribution. Globally this translates into more than 200 newspapers, magazines and directories, 200 websites and 300 events around the world.

SOURCE CMP India

International Company MouraStarr Leads the World Luxury Furniture Industry: Now with New Showrooms in New York, Los Angeles and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

2008-07-26T17:36:00.000+05:30

MouraStarr didn't set out to be a sustainable company. We set out to be conscientious and respectful, and we evolved into a 100% sustainable company. Long before "being green" was trendy, MouraStarr created furniture with integrity, solid design principles, and knowledgeable engineering. By respecting nature and our limited natural resources, by making a product that is meant to last for generations, by creating classic designs you'll love for the rest of your life, by creating over three hundred, one of a kind pieces from a single fallen tree, MouraStarr evolved into one of the most sustainable luxury furniture companies in the world.

In contrast to today's throwaway economy, MouraStarr never wastes precious resources. We use only the resources that we are allowed to use, while always using the best and most beautiful natural materials possible. Our ability to work with specialized materials sets us apart from other manufacturers. For example, when we use lacquer, we are certified to perform a method in our factory that allows us to recycle every single chemical, so that pure water is returned and the chemicals are reused.

MouraStarr is a design company and manufacturer, not just a showroom of products made by other companies. Our collection of three hundred pieces can be drawn on to furnish every room in your house. And even though we have over 300 original designs, each one that is produced is unique do to the natural differences in the materials that we use or our client chooses, and because of the options that buyer's have to choose from regarding different woods, leathers, lacquers, lacquered crystals and other materials to customize their piece.

So much thought goes into every single prototype, all the intricate moving parts, the detailing of the bevel on each piece of crystal to avoid chipping, how each individual wood grain will actually read on a particular design, to the carbon steel tubing that runs through a dining table to give it is strength and power.

Every piece of furniture from MouraStarr is 100% designed and produced in our state of the art factory. And while we have a recognizable design aesthetic, we specialize in diversification. Our creativity is never limited by physical constraints. Our understanding of engineering is so powerful that nothing we can imagine is impossible.

In the meantime, let us tease you with our Iguatemi Coffee Table, made of imbuia wood, a tree that is 300 years old and requires very special machines just to cut and shade the logs, due to the density of the wood. Contrasting these gorgeous rustic logs are, sleek contemporary diamond guard crystal top.

Or notice the Tao Dining Table, sleek contemporary, bold, edgy, very architectural, unique and undefiably MouraStarr, yet perfectly at home in a classic Cape Cod cottage.

The Ramses Dining Table is classic, with a simple design that is easy to work in any environment, or it can be extremely contemporary because of its clean and simple lines. One Rameses dining table found a home in Vermont in a building that was once a barn.

The Kromus Home Theatre Cabinet fascinates one with all its moving elements, different modular units all working together. Sliding panels move to hide or reveal your electronic equipment, making a seamless connection between the elegant cabinet and your high quality home theatre components.

The Curio Cinema is flanked by two modules of rustic imbuia wood, juxtaposed with finely polished lacquer; so shiny it looks like crystal. The contrast highlights the beautiful natural grain of the wood (never stained) - valued even more because it's a natural limited resource, certified for our use by the government.

The wood pieces radiate with the lush, pure beauty of the specialized materials from which they are made: imbuia, scuipira, acai and cabreuva woods, each with its own individual and distinctive colors and grains. But even within the wood from a single tree, there are different tones and colors. No two pieces will ever be exactly the same. And none of the woods are every stained.

Custom-created, MouraStarr furniture is created with transition in mind. Just by changing materials, you get a completely different feel. Set your dining room with classic China one night, modern glass the next afternoon and it will always look like it was meant to be. Our designers always create with the idea of just how many different things a piece can be. And because we keep our lines very linear, clean and classic, our designs never go out of style. It's one thing to build something that's sustainable; it's another thing to be sustainable in your life. MouraStarr means timeless design you never grow tired of, never outgrow. Transitional means that every piece will be different yet mix beautifully. Change the wood, and you have an entirely different piece. And every piece has the individuality that comes with working with natural, unstained wood.

Transitional also means that we can create a diversity of styles and feels. From sleek and powerful, to raw and strong, from clean and classic, to dynamic and futuristic, all is possible within the MouraStarr portfolio. We work with you to find what's right for your home, for your life.

Moura Starr is an international furniture design and manufacturing company doing business in the US and around the world. Our luxury home furnishings can be viewed in our showrooms located in New York, Los Angeles, San Paulo and in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia or online at www.mourastarr.com.

The new Los Angeles Showroom is re-opening in a vast 11K square ft location on Fifth Floor of the PDC in the Blue Building. The exclusive showroom, open only to the trade, expresses the MouraStarr style with its use of luxurious construction and interior design materials: white porcelain floors, rich wood paneling, bright steel details, rich silks and linens, and exquisite leather walls, all of which will evoke the identity of MouraStarr. The showroom will highlight the diversity of the line - and it's applicability in many different styles of homes from traditional to ultra modern. Even 11K sq ft will not be enough to show the entire line, which will rotate every four months. The Los Angeles showroom is located at 8687 Melrose Ave. The phone number is 310-854-9100. The showroom is open Monday-Friday from 9AM to 5PM.

MouraStarr will continue to set new standards for the industry with the opening of its new showroom in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Founder Shelley Starr said, "We have a tremendous amount of international business throughout regions such as the Middle East, Europe, Russia and Asia. Jeddah happens to be the first of several places we are to open internationally, and this decision was based off of consumer requests." From here we plan to open in Dubai and Russia in the coming year. "Our company is unique in that it is completely vertical, which affords us the ability to control all of its aspects from the design, to the manufacturing, to the logistics of all our international shipments to our clients around the world, as well as to our final destination of the MouraStarr showrooms." The Jeddah Showroom is located at #6 Alghadi Plaza, Prince Sultan Street, P.O. Box 2529 Jeddah, 21461, Saudi Arabia, Tel: +96626980498, Fax: +96626980385 The showroom is open Monday-Saturday 9:30AM to PM. For more information, visit www.mourastarr.com.

The New York showroom which has only recently completed its expansion of adding an additional 5K square ft to its original 5,400 square ft, now totally an impressive 10,400 square ft and a complete face lift in the beautiful Soho district of Manhattan, which is located at 121 Wooster Street. The phone number is 212-219-1110. The showroom is open Monday-Friday from 10AM to 6:30PM and on Saturday from 11AM-7PM. For more information, visit www.mourastarr.com.

MouraStarr is the passionate work of the creative team Shelley B Starr and Graca Kazan, a trained interior designer, and Luiz Mario Moura, a sophisticated engineer and architect. All Moura Starr products are created in their newly complete 333,000 square ft. eco-friendly factory that has been awarded multiple green certifications.

The company has spent 14 years building a rock solid foundation from its factory to its import/export companies, to its showrooms to launch its product to the world. Moura Starr is the first of its kind to be so design driven, completely focused on their factory that is 100% green and all products being 100% sustainable. Moura Starr is the future of what businesses are striving for and a leader in setting new standards in the design and manufacturing of furniture.

Source-24-7pressrelease.com

Car, component exports accelerate

2008-07-26T17:34:00.000+05:30

South African car exports this year are expected to increase by 50% more than last year, with the component production for locally produced vehicles increasing in tandem, National Association of Automotive Components and Allied Manufacturer's (Naacam's) Executive Director, Roger Pitot tells Engineering News.

"Local car manufacturers like Toyota are growing their export programmes, and Mercedes Benz is increasing its C-class exports this year, enabling this growth in the automotive component sector. This is in the face of the local market showing a downward trend," he comments.

"The challenge is to remain competitive in the export market, because every year the Motor Industry Development Programme (MIDP) incentives are decreasing. The challenge to remain globally competitive is increasing, with countries like China and India making huge strides in the production quality, and thus taking their place in the automotive components industry."

Pitot says that there have been significant changes since the MIDP was established. "The MIDP was introduced in 1995, prior to which the automotive industry was very protected. When the markets were opened, with the advent of democracy in 1994, the industry had to compete in an open, global market, without many of the previous protections."

Put simply, the MIDP is an import/export complementation arrangement, whereby the local content value of components or built-up vehicles exported, earn credits that can be used to rebate import duties on components and vehicles. The arrangement is due to come to an end in 2012.

However, the industry is still facing significant cost-pressures, and this is not helping its global competitiveness.

Pitot explains that power cutbacks, power price hikes and fuel price hikes are all affecting the global competitiveness of the local automotive industry. "Naacam members are supplying parts to the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and they have to meet set target prices.

To be competitive on the global scale the local set-up has to be conducive to global pricing. In South Africa the infrastructure costs penalise the manufacturers and port costs are also very high. Cargo dues have to be paid on all imports and exports, and South Africa is the only country in the world that has this penalty payment. This makes it the most expensive automotive port in the world."

Another challenge to cost competitiveness is South Africa's inefficient and congested rail and road transport systems. Many of the road links, like the corridor between Gauteng and the Eastern Cape, are underdeveloped. Pitot states that a lot of money has to be spent on upgrading this infrastructure, which is essential for the transportation of goods within the industry, as well as to ports for export.

In addition to the problems above, Pitot says that South Africa's automotive industry suffers at the hands of monopolistic raw material suppliers. "Local prices are just one or two percent lower than the import prices, including duty and transport."

Another problem the local industry is encountering is the country-wide demand for wage increases. The industry has a three-year wage agreement with the unions that was negotiated in 2007. Pitot says that it remains to be seen if the unions will be honouring this agreement. "From a humane point of view it will be understandable if the workers say that they have a problem surviving in the face of the rising inflation, but we cannot afford the cost penalty."

Pitot believes that growth in the industry depends on the MIDP announcement in August. "The industry has been liaising with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and its task team for a while now, and is reaching the final stages. The industry has pointed out the shortcomings of the MIDP programme, and has indicated what the industry believes is required for the future.

What is required is a discretionary incentive investment package that is globally competitive. I think the government is beginning to understand this better," he says. "Local manufacturers also have to look at reducing costs by becoming more efficient, less energy reliant, and find other innovative ways to reduce costs to remain competitive."

International exposure

Building on previous successes in other international exhibitions, Naacam set up its first national pavilion at the Automechnika in Dubai, in early June to help its members stay globally competitive, and to grow awareness of the South African automotive industry internationally. The association plans to make this an annual event.

Pitot reports that nine South African companies exhibited at the show this year, and were happy with the exposure, especially to the fast growing, lucrative Middle Eastern market.

In October Naacam will take a trade delegation to China to promote some South Africa's products there. This is all part of a drive to inform other countries and expose the automotive industry to the world. "A lot of the world is not even aware that South Africa makes cars," says Pitot.

In preparation for the Automechnika in Frankfurt this September, Naacam has already sent out 800 of its directories, to advertise and expose the South African automotive component industry. This is apart from the directories the association plans to hand out at the show itself.

Pitot adds that, 'Naacam has also endorsed and is fully behind South African Automotive Week (Saaw) in October 2009. The association understands the expected significant benefits this will bring to South Africa's automotive component industry. To this end Naacam has recommended its members participation and has also scheduled its annual general meeting during Saaw."

Lags

Locally Naacam has started an initiative called the Local Action Groups (Lags). There are a number of Lags in Gauteng, the North West and the Eastern Cape. The first meetings were held in September last year and the first groups were formed from these meetings.

Lags is a clustering process, where a few companies who share geographical proximity, are clustered together to share skills development, training opportunities and HIV/Aids awareness.

A local partnership that Naacam's head office, with members in its proximity, has fostered is with the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, on the issue of HIV/Aids. This partnership has helped members become aware of what is available in the area for awareness training, counselling and treatment, who is responsible for the clinics and if there are problems, whom to contact. In this way HIV/Aids awareness can be carried out at a town or regional level.

Other local issues where working together as a group will help decrease costs, time and efforts and where non-production materials, like protective clothing or photo copy paper, can be bought through this buying collaborative or Lags.

To build the power of Naacam's members as a buying collaborative, the association has signed up with international company Quadrem. Quadrem supports the collaborative purchasing process of industries with similar interests through the use of the internet, to facilitate cost saving initiatives at a national level. "This means a pooling of the buying power of over 200 companies, which employs over 50 000 people," adds Pitot.

Quadrem is in the processing of gathering data from Naacam's members to ascertain what their requirements are. The internet-based system will enable members to go online and access a choice of three companies that Quadrem has researched, and found to have the most competitive pricing, from which to make purchases. One of the three choices would be a highly rated black economic empowerment company.

Source-engineeringnews.co.za

Import tax concession on Ceylon tea likely to continue despite tax hike-The Daily News

2008-07-25T17:06:00.000+05:30

Ceylon tea exports to India under the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement are likely to continue to enjoy a concessionary import duty, Forbes and Walker Tea Brokers said, quoting a Tea Board communique.

It is projected that Ceylon tea exports to India under the free trade pact will enjoy a concessionary import duty of 7.5 per cent for the allocated quota of 15 million kilos a year, they said. The Government of India has increased the import duty on tea from 35 per cent to 70 per cent in the budget proposals for 2000/2001 presented to the Indian parliament last month.

Accordingly the Finance Ministry in India announced on March 1 that the import duty on tea among some other items have been hiked from 35 per cent to 70 per cent with immediate effect.

Moreover the Finance Minister of India also announced the raising of the investment limit qualifying for tax exemptions for the tea industry (development allowance on profits) from 20 per cent to 40 per cent. This additional allowance will be used only for re-plantation, rejuvenation and modernisation of tea plantations as well as processing facilities.

According to the agreement with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) India was compelled to lift the restrictions of tea imports to its domestic market from March 1. Therefore the Finance Minister of India Yaswant Singha has formulated a protective measure to domestic tea producers by raising the import duty on tea from 35% to 70%.

Source : www.teainfo.ru

Market Access Initiative Scheme to promote exports

2008-07-21T16:53:00.000+05:30

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) cleared proposed amendments to the Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme to enhance its scope and effectiveness. The MAI Scheme is implemented by the Commerce & Industry Ministry (Department of Commerce) to act as a catalyst to promote India’s exports on a sustained basis.

The existing scheme was formulated on focussed product -- focussed country approach to evolve specific strategy for specific market and specific product.

Financial assistance under the existing Scheme is provided to export or trade promotion organisations / exporters etc. for enhancing India’s exports through accessing new markets or through increasing the share in the existing markets. Financial assistance is also provided under the scheme for various activities such as participation in trade fairs abroad, opening of showrooms and warehouses etc.

Based on the feedback and suggestions received from all the stakeholders, the MAI scheme is now amended to include the following:

i) The scope of the scheme is being widened by allowing, inter-alia, the following additional activities to be eligible for financial assistance under the scheme: (a) Organising “Trade Festival of India” in select centres abroad to promote “Brand India” by showcasing India’s strength in services like health (Ayurveda and Yoga), Indian cuisine, tourism, culture etc., besides merchandise; (b) Capacity building and imparting training, upgradation / improvement of laboratories, universities, research institutions etc. for fulfilling sanitary & phyto-sanitary (SPS) measures; (c) Providing assistance for all trade related studies including Free Trade Agreement (FTA) / Regional Trade Agreement (RTA) etc.; and (d) Developing foreign trade facilitation web portal as well as to support cottage and handicraft units.

Source : fibre2fashion.com

Increase in rupee value may decrease exports

2008-07-21T16:51:00.000+05:30

The recent appreciation of rupee by 9 percent between August 2006 and April 2007 is affecting Indian exporters severely.

With cheaper US dollar, it is feared that the imports are going to increase. Currently imports are on the higher side with 35 percent while exports have registered a growth of 22 percent.

This trade deficit will put pressure on foreign exchange earnings. In this situation, exporters are withdrawing from entering new contracts as the booming retail sector seems an easy option.

Federation of Indian Exporters Organization President Ganesh K Gupta was concerned with this situation and expressed hope that Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath would address exporters' cry in Foreign Trade policy while the Reserve Bank of India would look into the issue in the forthcoming credit policy.

Source : fibre2fashion.com

Steps to eliminate child labour from export-oriented industries

2008-07-21T16:49:00.000+05:30

Government has taken a series of steps for elimination of child labour from export oriented industries.

This includes various measures taken by the export promotion councils to eliminate use of child labour and also the awareness and monitoring programmes conducted by the Export Promotion Councils for the purpose.

Government of India has taken up this issue of use of child labour in the export-orinted industries with all the Indian Embassies/High Commissions abroad to sensitize them on the issue of child labour and their possible impact.

Government has also taken up this matter with various trade councils to ensure that no child labour is employed by the member exporters.

Further, the steps taken by the Government in the carpet sector also include regular surveillance on child labour undertaken by a professional agency, setting up of National Level Steering Committee, formulation of a code of conduct for the various Carpet Export Promotion Councils to ensure that no child labour prohibited by law is employed.

For the rehabilitation of children withdrawn from hazardous work including the export-oriented industries, Government is also implementing the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme in 250 districts of the country which include the areas form where exports are being made from the country.

Action under the Child Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act, 1986 is initiated against the employers who are found to beviolating the provisions of the Act.

This information was given by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Shri Oscar Fernandes in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

Source : fibre2fashion.com

EU to Scrap Many Farm Import, Export Licences

2008-07-21T16:48:00.000+05:30

As part of its drive to simplify the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), many of the licences required for commodity import and export will be abolished, or at least brought into line with a single set of rules, the European Commission said on Thursday. EU licences are now needed to import around 500 commodity products, a number that will be cut to 65 as of July 1. For cereals, for example, the number of products for which an import licence is required will be reduced from 133 to 21, it said.

From August, wine traders will be allowed to import any wine product permitted under EU regulations without a licence. At the moment, around 100 wine products must have import licences.

For exports, only 43 products will have to be accompanied by a licence. Export certificates for cereals will apply for just nine products, compared with 133 products now.

The EU licensing obligation would also be abolished for imports paid at full duty in the beef, veal and dairy sectors. But licences would continue to apply to some products imported under preferential trade terms, the Commission said.

"Operators will no longer have to apply for licences and deposit costly securities, and national authorities will no longer need to process them, thereby saving time and reducing costs," the Commission said in a statement.

"Many traders, importers and exporters will no longer need to apply for and subsequently manage licences at all -- those that do so will have fewer licences to deal with," it said.

Using licences allowed the Commission to carry out detailed monitoring of trade in often sensitive product areas and made it easier to anticipate trade developments.

Licences also allowed EU regulators to manage farm trade measures such as tariff quotas and export refunds, the statement said.

Last year, EU ministers agreed to strip dozens of layers of red tape from the CAP to simplify the lives of farmers producing everything from poultry, eggs and cereals to potatoes.

Much of EU bureaucracy was sliced through, with around 40 different regulations covering 21 commodity policy areas being replaced with just one framework law.

Source : flex-news-food.com

First ever International jewellery fair of South India in Hyderabad

2008-07-17T17:04:00.000+05:30

There's excitement in the air as the Hyderabad Jewellery, Pearl & Gem Fair 08,(HJF) comes to Hyderabad. If you are wondering what the buzz is all about, this will be the first ever largest international Jewellery fair in South India and will bring the best of Indian and International Jewellery under one roof.

Over 150 exhibitors occupying 250 booths are spread over 10000 sqmtrs, of show floor. HJF has special group pavilions from Thailand and Hong Kong.

Apart from India over all HJF has confirmed participation from 15 countries and regions including Taiwan, Italy, Burma, Japan, Belgium, Israel, Turkey, Belgium, and Middle East.

"South India is not only the country's major consumer market for Jewellery of all types but also a major manufacturer of Jewellery and a Gem and Pearl processing and trading centre, with long-established national and international centers.

HJF'08 also aims to provide an international platform for buyers and sellers of fine jewellery, pearls, diamonds, gems and other precious materials to meet at the peak of the buying cycle of the festive season," says M. Gandhi, Managing Director, CMP India (UBM India) the organizer of HJF '08.

When it comes to fine jewellery in South India, Hyderabad is one of the first cities to come to the mind. And for good reason, the exquisite Nizam's jewels rank amongst the world's finest.

The city is also known for its rich craftsmanship and rare and exquisite gemstone and pearl Jewellery. Some of the world's most famous diamonds like the Kohinoor, Regent and Hope are from Andhra Pradesh.

South India is the biggest jewellery market in the country and Hyderabad with its infrastructure and facilities is the ideal location for the Hyderabad Jewellery, Pearl & Gem Fair, (HJF'08).

The exhibition is scheduled from the 24th to 27th July, 2008 at the HITEX Exhibition Centre. It will coincide with the onset of the festive season and is bound to attract thousands of visitors from India and overseas.

What makes HJF'08 unique is that it will be both a B2B as well as a B2C event and will cater to both the targets. It will function as an international trading platform which will facilitate domestic and overseas jewellery, diamond, pearl and gemstone suppliers to meet key buyers and open up new vistas of opportunities.

The show will offer an opportunity to view a large range of jewellery from India and overseas right here in south of India. An international delegation from China and various countries are already confirmed to visit the event.

Besides the domestic jewellery associations, have also confirmed their member are planning to visit the event in large numbers to strike suitable business partnerships.

For the consumer, this will be an opportunity to discover a whole new world of designer jewellery in fascinating designs and styles like never before. They will be able to pick world class jewellery showcased in a luxurious setting where they can shop in comfort.

Source by fibre2fashion

Wal-Mart Offers Green Gold, Launches 'Traceable' Fine Jewelry

2008-07-17T16:56:00.000+05:30

Looks like the marketing road from relative political obscurity to mainstream America is shorter than ever: Wal-Mart says it is launching Love, Earth jewelry-a line of "completely traceable" silver and gold fine jewelry. The products, which will be sold both at Wal-Mart and Sam's Club, allow customers to go online and enter a batch number, tracing the path of their jewelry from places like Peru, the Dominican Republic, Bolivia and Switzerland right through to their local store, exploring the "chain of custody" at each step. The line is produced in partnership with Conservation International and the retailer's supply chain partners.

Wal-Mart says it plans to expand the number of approved mining and manufacturing suppliers, and to add diamonds to the Love, Earth line. It also says the new line is its first step in making sure all the gold, silver and diamonds it sells "come from mines and manufacturers that meet Wal-Mart's sustainability standards and criteria." The Bentonville, Ark.-based retailer says it plans to have at least 10% of its jewelry products reach that standard by 2010.

With the tagline "Protecting our planet. Supporting our communities," The Earth, Love line is pitched as an environmental play--right down to the Tree of Life pendants and the Earth-Mothery Web site--and specifically addresses concerns about sustainability practices, an area that has shown an increasing amount of appeal for Wal-Mart shoppers. But by raising the issue of community, it also takes the retailer into relatively new territory: Social and political questions.

Fair-labor practices are a major issue in the mining industry. And the addition of diamonds to the line will also bring up the question of "conflict" or "blood" diamonds, those gems that are mined in a war zone and sold to finance war efforts.

The World Diamond Council says that African nations produce about $8.5 billion worth of diamonds each year--about 65% of the world's supply. The industry has greatly stepped up its efforts to police the source of diamonds--and claims that 99% of the world's diamonds are from sources free of conflict. But some activist groups say that isn't enough, and estimate that conflict diamonds have resulted in 3.7 million deaths in Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

Source by mediapost.com

Jewel Art recognised with Emerging India Award

2008-07-15T17:54:00.001+05:30

Diamond company Jewel Art, a subsidiary of DTC sightholder Asian Star, has been honoured with the CNBC–TV 18 Emerging India Award. It won this recognition in the category of gems and jewellery category, through the hands of steel baron Lakshmi Mittal, on July 8 in London.

The awards for the year were based on the theme 'Think Global Go Global', and recognised those Indian small and medium enterprises, which have business practices on par with global standards.

Jewel Art is based at SEEPZ, Mumbai, the hub of diamond companies in India. It specifically caters to the diamond jewellery demands of international markets – tapping so far US, Europe, South East Asia, Australia & the Middle East.

ICA Congress 2009 undergoes change

2008-07-15T17:49:00.000+05:30

The event is scheduled to host the maximum number of attendees

The ICA Congress for 2009 will be setting some milestones – its tenure will be extended for the first time since its inception in 1985 from a five day event to a six day event. Also, the Congress is expected to host the maximum number of attendees so far. The International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) made the announcement.

ICA president Andrew Cody said in a statement, “In setting the agenda for the ICA Congress in Panyu, we discovered that the number of speakers, discussion sessions and activities could not be scheduled into our usual five-day format.” The agenda will include four days of sessions with speakers from around the world, excursions, registration days and golf and tennis tournaments.

ICA Congress Chairman Edward Boehm remarked that, “Excitement is already building as we set the agenda for bringing the world of gemstones to China.”

The sponsors for the ICA Congress 2009 are the National Gemstone Testing Center (NGTC) in Beijing, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Panyu Branch and Woldmart Jewelry & Gems Emporium (HK) Ltd. The 2009 ICA Congress will be held in Panyu, Guangzhou - China’s largest jewellery manufacturing area, from May 5-10, 2009.

Source by diamondworld.net

Jewel Art Wins Gems & Jewellery Award in India

2008-07-14T18:32:00.001+05:30

Jewel Art, a subsidiary of Asian Star, one of the world’s leading diamantaires, bagged the CNBC –TV 18 Emerging India Award under the Gems and Jewellery category. ICICI Bank and CNBC – TV 18 instituted special awards in 2004 for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) called The Emerging India Awards to recognize the most sustainable value creators among SMEs in the country.

Through its theme 'Think Global Go Global' this year, The Emerging India Awards recognizes the SMEs for the crucial role played by them towards the growth of the Indian economy and rewarded the most globally competitive SME, whose business practices are at par with global giants.

The winners were met by L N Mittal, chairman and CEO, and Arcelor Mittal at a grand ceremony in London on the 8th of July 2008.

Speaking about the award, Priyanshu Shah, CEO of Jewel Art said, “We are pleased to bag the prestigious Emerging India Awards for SMEs. We feel greatly encouraged to be felicitated thus, and this recognition will further motivate us in our efforts to be the best in the Gems and Jewellery industry.”

Established in 1999, Jewel Art is one of the prominent jewellery manufacturers of India. Based in Seepz, Mumbai, Jewel Art caters to the international market and has its clientele spread across USA, Europe, South East Asia, and Australia & the Middle East.

About Asian Star
Asian Star’s major business activity is Diamond Processing, Jewellery Manufacturing and Retailing, with a turnover of Rs 1473.83 crores in March 2008. Asian Star exports its diamonds and jewellery to major diamond markets like the USA, UAE, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Japan, UK, Belgium, Israel, Germany and Switzerland. It has high-tech manufacturing facilities in Surat and Mumbai in India. Asian Star supplies to leading retail chains, in the Indian & International markets.

Diamond traders in Mumbai push rivalry with Antwerp

2008-07-14T18:30:00.000+05:30

MUMBAI: The ambitions of Mumbai's diamond traders are grand, even if their offices are not.

They nurse dreams of rivaling Antwerp as the world's diamond-trading capital while sitting in aging tower blocks that are about as grimy as a cut diamond is sparkly.

Corridors are splattered bloody red with decades' worth of spat-out chewing tobacco. Elevator doors must be yanked shut by hand. Toilets must be entered gingerly. Traders' offices, though somewhat cleaner than the public spaces, tend to be cramped.

But, barring any last-minute bureaucratic spanners, the bulk of the trade should soon shift across the city to a new home more befitting one of India's biggest export earners.

India already polishes about 9 in every 10 diamonds, mostly tiny, cheaper stones less than a carat. Faced with growing global competition, India hopes to cling on to its position in polishing by spreading into an area in which it has lagged: the trade of rough diamonds.

"We're trying to make India the largest trading center and manufacturing center for diamonds," said Sanjay Kothari, the chairman of India's Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council. "Why should we go to Antwerp?"

A bullish confidence is common among Indian businessmen these days. Nonetheless, even if few see Antwerp being eclipsed any time soon, the ambition of Kothari and his colleagues is giving pause to at least some Antwerp traders.

In 2006-07, India imported $8.8 billion worth of rough diamonds and exported $10.9 billion of polished gems, much of which was sent to Hong Kong and the United States to be set in jewelry.

But its dominance is under threat. The consultancy firm KPMG said in a 2006 report that India's share of diamond polishing by value would drop to 49 percent by 2015, from 57 per cent today, as the global diamond industry spreads into new corners of the globe.

China is investing heavily in polishing midsize stones. Angola, Namibia and Botswana are increasingly determined to process locally some of the stones chipped from their mines, which once would have been promptly whisked off to the London clearing house of De Beers, the dominant player in rough trade.

To keep their foothold, India intends to spread out along the chain between mines and ring fingers. Indians' success in cutting diamonds has given them advantages elsewhere: about 40 percent of the trade in Antwerp is controlled by Indians, according to Kothari, while Indians make up about half of De Beers's elite customer list (much of the rest are Hasidic Jews).

The new Bharat Diamond Bourse - Bharat being the Hindi name for India - will house India's first international diamond-trading hall. It is intended to bring the trade back to the land where diamonds are said to have been first mined a millennia ago.

"Finally!" exclaimed Louise Prior, a spokeswoman for the De Beers marketing arm, Diamond Trading, when told by a reporter that the bourse's opening may be imminent. "It's been under construction for a seriously long time."

In fact it has been about 15 years, a few years less than it took to build the Taj Mahal, and its blue, glassy, cliff-sized facade already looks a little dated.

Disputes with contractors, local authorities and even its own members, who were increasingly reluctant to pay their dues as time dragged on, have all stalled the 9.5 billion rupee, or $222 million, project.

Still, every year or so, for the last decade, newspapers have confidently run stories saying the bourse is nearly ready. But this time they really mean it, says Anoop Mehta, the president of the bourse, which will house about 2,400 traders.

An onsite electronic customs office will replace the present need for export forms requiring 35 signatures. There will be about 100 food outlets, none of which will serve meat or eggs, in keeping with the sensibilities of the Hindus and Jains from Gujarat State that have long dominated the trade. Musical fountains are planned for the garden.

Officially, Antwerp is unfazed.

"We're not really afraid of the ambition of others," said Philip Claes, spokesman for the Antwerp World Diamond Center, which represents the city's trade.

"We hear every day the diamond dealers say they like Antwerp, they do not intend to leave Antwerp, it's nice living in Antwerp."

Prior, the spokeswoman for the DeBeers marketing arm, says India's trading aspirations will "take some time" to be realized. Some individual traders admit to feeling worried.

"I don't see why they wouldn't be able to take a big place in rough trading," said Christophe de Borrekens, a sales director for the Antwerp-based diamond company IGC Group.

"Since India became a very big manufacturing country, it's a logical move," he said. "It will take some part of the trade from Antwerp."

More Info

Gem and Jewelry Trade Deal Signed by Dubai and Thailand

2008-07-14T18:27:00.000+05:30

The Dubai Multi Commodities Center and the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association have signed a jewelry trade deal with the aim of boosting Dubai's Dh70 million annual trade in gems and colored stones as well as Thailand’s colored stones exports.

Thailand’s annual gems and jewelry exports exceed $2 billion, making it the second largest exporter of gems and jewelry in the world.

The Dubai Multi Commodities Center’s affiliation with the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association will provide Thailand's colored stones industry with a suitable platform to boost the country’s trade, and is expected to impact on the value of colored stones in the global industry.

By: Rachel Lieberman, Israel Diamond Industry Portal

Gem, jewellery industry assured of govt support

2008-07-14T17:47:00.000+05:30

PESHAWAR: NWFP Minister for Social Welfare, Women Development and Special Education Sitara Ayaz on Sunday said that the provincial government would extend all possible support to the gems and jewellery exporters so that maximum foreign exchange could be earned for the country besides creation of well-paid jobs.

She said this while inaugurating a gems bazaar at Namak Mandi here. Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company Director Khalid Sultan, Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Haji Asif, APSEA founder Dost Mohammad and a large number of gems experts and exporters were also present on the occasion.

Sitara appreciated the establishment of Gem Exchange in Peshawar and said it would attract foreign companies and experts. She suggested that women should also be trained in gems and jewellery so that they could earn their livelihood to support their families.

She also appreciated the idea of establishment of a latest gems lab at the Gem Exchange and said that gems and jewellery should be polished and designed according to global market demands.

Source by dailytimes.com.pk

Importers Directory

2008-07-11T16:47:00.000+05:30

1. Importers Directory - ImporterBASE.com
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http://www.importerbase.com

2. HotBuys/Buyers/Importers/buyers,buyer|distributors|importer
indian importers, indian importers list, indian importers directory, importers directory, importers from india, indian trade goods, buyers in india Importers and Buyers in India importers in india, B2B importers, bulk order buyers, business to business
http://importers.hotexporters.com

3. American Importers Association
. How To Get A List Of Us Importers . The Best Ways To Sell To Us Importers Using E-mail To Market Your Product Sample Sales Letter Web Site Designs That Are Effective How Not To Sell To Us Importers . The United States Is The World’’s Largest Importer
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4. Indian Importers,Buyers Directory,Foreign Buyers Directories
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http://www.indianimporters.in

5. American Importers Association
. How To Get A List Of Us Importers . The Best Ways To Sell To Us Importers . . Using E-mail To Market Your Product Sample Sales Letter . The United States Is The World’’s Largest Importer Americans Are Hungry Consumers Of Many Kinds Of Goods. Us
http://www.americanimporters.org

6. Indian Importers List and Indian Exporters List: Indian Importers
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http://www.themallofindia.com

7. Food Importers, International Food Importers, Specialty Food
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http://www.nationalimporters.com

8. Wine Importers, Distributors, Wineries, Distilleries, Breweries
Directory Of Wine Distributors, Wine Importers, Vintners, Wholesalers Of Wines, Beer Importers, Spirits Importers, Cider. Wineries, Breweries, Distilleries In America, Japan, France, Italy, Spain, England, Canada, Germany, Russia, Chile, Australia
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9. Importers Directory,Exporters,yellow pages
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http://www.furnitureimporters.co.uk

11. Import Export Advertising, International Trade Ads For Importers
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12. B2Bchennai
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http://b2bchennai.com

13. World Gems Importers
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http://www.worldgemsimporters.com

14. Just Jap Auto Importers. Specialising In Japanese Imports And
Justjap Is One Of Australia’’s Leading Vehicle Importers.
http://www.justjap.com

15. Shoes-Importers.com - Your Online Directory of Shoes Importers
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http://shoes-importers.com

16. International Food Importers | Global Food Importers LLC. | North
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http://www.globalfoodimporters.com

17. Importers - Exporters - Business To Business Resources
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http://www.importexporthelp.com

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http://www.gckcdryfruits.com

19. Wine & Beverages
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http://www.wineandbeverages.com

20. Zota Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Limited
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http://zotapharma.tradeget.com

21. Importers, Exporters, Manufacturers, Distributors, Service
Complete information of importers and exporters from Mumbai, India
http://www.manufacturers-from-india.com

22. LONDONEUROPE
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23. Import Export Importers Exporters Buy Sell Trade Zone
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24. Complete Food Services, Australia - Importers, Wholesalers And
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25. Memon International
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http://www.memon.co.uk

26. Kiwi Connection Inc. - Importers Of Natural Health Products From
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http://www.kiwiconnection.com

27. The Greenhouse Effect - Importers And Specialists Of Moroccan
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http://www.greenhouseeffect.co.uk

28. Roybal Global
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29. International Plywood
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http://www.plywooduk.com

30. BestChoice Infotech
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http://www.tradershome.com

31. Jonathan Stein Wholesale Diamond Importers Inc
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http://www.jstein.com

32. Importers, Exporters, Manufacturers & Transportation Directory
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http://www.import-export-cargo.com

33. Crillon Importers Ltd. - Importing The Finest Beverages!
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http://www.crillonimporters.com

34. Importer Importers wholesale Importers
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http://www.imports-hmcs.co.za

35. Welcome To Image Design Company Ltd, Importers And Distributors
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http://www.imagedesigncompany.co.uk

36. KIRG IMPORTERS PTY. LTD. - Index
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http://www.kirg.com.au

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38. www.esmarthub.com - Marketing Solutions For Your Business
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http://esmarthub.com

39. BUMGA Group of Companies:Leading importers & traders of building
One of the largest importers of Building Materials, Structural Steel, Deformed Bar, Timber, Timber related products & Plywood in United Arab Emirates
http://www.bumga.net

40. Pampas Wines - Importers Of Fine Wine To The Uk
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http://www.pampaswines.com

41. Basketware importers
Importers of fine basketware including Hampers, Shoppers, Wine baskets, Log baskets etc
http://www.homeproductsbasketware.co.uk

42. Discount Fishing, Household and Outdooor Specialist
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http://www.naturalgiftcompany.co.uk

43. Commercial News Usa
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http://www.cnewsusa.com

44. Importer exporter trade lead database
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http://www.importers.com

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http://supremefish.com.sg

46. Food & Beverages Importers India,Food Trade Consultant,Health
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http://www.raifoods.com

47. Importers - Importer Lists - Importer Directory
Importer Directory provides over 65, 000 international b2b companies to help you finding importers or buyers around the World
http://www.importerlist.net

48. FVE - Film & Video Extras Photographic Importers and Distributors
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http://www.fvextras.com

49. Brakeworld.Importers And Distributors Of Automotive
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http://www.brakeworld.co.uk

50. B2bBanglore : Business Directory,India Business Directory,India
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http://www.b2bbanglore.com

51. B2bHyderabad : Business Directory,India Business Directory,India
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http://www.b2bhyderabad.com

52. B2bKolkatta : Business Directory,India Business Directory,India
B2B Kolkatta - Online business directory of importers, exporters, manufacturers, consultancies, real estates, importers, service providers, hotels, travels.Largest Online business (B2B) directory of Kolkatta, India with listings of exporters, importers
http://www.b2bkolkatta.com

53. Wool Importers From India, Woolen Rags, Indian Wool Importers,
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http://www.rnbgroup.com

54. Heim Group, Ltd
We are an Import and Export Agent keeping very good relationship with many Chinese importers. Exporters and factories and many foreign’s importers and exporters. We are mainly dealing with Chemicals, foodstuffs to import and export
http://my.ecplaza.net

55. Fine & Rare Wine Importers From France, Italy & Spain.
Uk Rare And Fine Wine Merchants And Importers Specialising In The Finest Wines Of The Rhone Valley, Alsace And Burgundy.
http://www.gauntleywine.com

56. 101tradeplus.Com: Importers, Exporters And Suppliers
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http://www.101tradeplus.com

57. Crown Parian, Ltd. - Importers Of Porcelain Dinnerware For Party
Importers Of Porcelain White And Ivory Dinnerware At The Lowest Prices For The Party Rental, Catering, And Special Events Industry
http://www.crownparian.com

58. Jeffco International Ltd - Livestock Exporters Importers - Sheep
Livestock Exporters Importers - Sheep, Goats, Pigs, Cattle, Horses, And Breeeding Services, With A Professional Worldwide Network
http://www.jeffco.co.nz

59. Japanese Used Pajero Exporters, Dealers, Importers, Supplier
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http://www.usedpajero.com

60. E International Trade - Manufacturers, Suppliers, Importers &
Premier B2B Web portal for foreign trade. Worldwide importers, exporters, manufacturers, freight forwarders directories, trade leads, statistics, exhibitions, market research, software and more
http://www.berlinkauf.com

61. services for importers and exporters in Russia
We offer wide range services for importers and exporters in Russia including forwarding and custom clearance of goods
http://www.sibexport.ru

62. Cork Sheet India,Rubberized Cork Sheet,Importers Cork Slabs,Cork
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http://www.nagpalcork.com

63. B2b Metros : Business Directory,India Business Directory,India
B2B chennai - Online business directory of importers, exporters, manufacturers, consultancies, real estates, importers, service providers, hotels, travels.Largest Online business (B2B) directory of chennai, India with listings of exporters, importers
http://www.b2bmetros.com

64. Welcome To Sustainable Harvest !
We Are Green Coffee Importers Of Specialty Coffees From The Top Organic And Fair Trade Farms From Around The World. Our Customers Are The Most Successful And Quality-conscious Roasters And Retailers In North America. Sustainable Harvest Coffee Importers
http://www.organiccoffee.com

65. Yellow Page - manufacturers, trading companies, importers and
Marketplace for manufacturers and trading companies and offers online services for importers and exporters
http://www.smartpages.com.my

66. Tackleman Ltd - Manufacturers And Importers Of Quality
Tackleman Ltd - Manufacturers And Importers Of Quality Recreational Fishing Tackle. Wholesale Suppliers To The Retail Market.
http://www.nzfish.co.nz

67. Used Vehicles Importers Association
UVIA, JEVIC, Used Vehicles Importers Association, VEHICLE CERTIFICATION AGENCY, VCA, SINGLE VEHICLE APPROVAL CERTIFICATES , SVAC, ODOMETER REPORTS, EMISSION STANDARDS, JAPANESE USED CARS, Malta Transport Authority
http://www.uviamalta.com

68. Cottage Furniture - Manufacturers And Importers Of Contract
We Are Uk Importers And Manufacturers Of Quality Contract Furniture Supplying Bars, Clubs, Restaurants And Hotels. We Have A Full Range Of Chairs, Stools, Sofas, Tables, Fitted Seating And Cabinets To Suit Your Every Need.
http://www.cottagefurniture.net

69. B2bMumbai : Business Directory,India Business Directory,India
B2B Mumbai - Online business directory of importers, exporters, manufacturers, consultancies, real estates, importers, service providers, hotels, travels.Largest Online business (B2B) directory of Mumbai, India with listings of exporters, importers, manufacturers
http://www.b2bmumbai.com

70. B2bCochin : Business Directory,India Business Directory,India
B2B cochin - Online business directory of importers, exporters, manufacturers, consultancies, real estates, importers, service providers, hotels, travels.Largest Online business (B2B) directory of cochin, India with listings of exporters, importers, manufacturers
http://www.b2bcochin.com

71. B2bDelhi : Business Directory,India Business Directory,India
B2B Delhi - Online business directory of importers, exporters, manufacturers, consultancies, real estates, importers, service providers, hotels, travels.Largest Online business (B2B) directory of Delhi, India with listings of exporters, importers, manufacturers
http://www.b2bdelhi.com

72. Benelli Motorbikes Index Australian Motorcycle Importers (Ami)
Benelli Motorcycles Now Availiable In Australia Through Australian Motorcycle Importers.
http://www.benellimoto.com.au

73. Liards Ltd. Importers Of Wedding Accessories, And Victorian
Importers Of Brass, Silver, And Nickel Wedding Accessories And Victorian Antique Reproductions
http://www.liards.com

74. Wholesale Directories - Manufacturers, Importers, And
You Will Find Wholesale Sources In Directory Listings Of Manufacturers, Wholesalers, Importers, Close-out Houses And Liquidators That Have The Products You Want To Sell. Wholesale Directories.
http://www.atwoz.com

75. 365-Trade Directory - Exporters, Importers, Manufacturers
World Trade Place for Exporters and Importers. Trade Leads, Business Offers, Companies Directory, Products Directories with Photos and Spetifications. FREE Service for Global Traders
http://www.365-trade.com

76. ASCOMUT Homepage
Ascomut (The National Association of Importers and Distributors of Machine Tools and Tools) represents the Italian suppliers and importers of machine tools, electrical, pneumatic and hand tooling, control and measuring machinery and instruments, ancillary
http://www.ascomut.it

77. Importers Direct - A Smarter Way to Buy Quality Kitchen
At Importers Direct, we offer the very best kitchen appliances without the high price tag. Our direct sales model and low overheads mean you get the very best European appliances at savings of up to 40% when compared to traditional retailers
http://www.importersdirect.com.au

78. AandS Importers for Magellan GPS, Garmin GPS, cheap mp3 players
AandS Importers goal is to provide quality products to our customers at the lowest possible price with the absolute highest level of professional service. Computer systems, GPS navigation, telecommunication equipment and laptop computers
http://www.aandsimporters.com

79. Importers and exporters of aftermarket automotive parts. From
Importers and Exporters of Aftermarket Autoparts
http://www.marnal.com

80. Iltrullo.Com Are Importers Of Exclusive Gourmet Italian Foods!
Importers Of Exclusive Gourmet Italian Foods Including Pasta, Vegetables, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Bruschetta, Snacks, Cookies, Etc. Corporate Gifts And Baskets Available.
http://www.iltrullo.com

81. Genco Imports - Importers Of Healthy Italian Food
Genco Imports - We Move A World Of Premium Products. Importers Of Great Healthy Italian Foods From Italy To New York And Hawaii.
http://gencoimports.com

82. Professional Association Of Exporters And Importers (P.A.E.I.)
Who Is P.A.E.I.? The Professional Association Of Exporters And Importers (P.A.E.I.) Is An Organization Of Professionals Involved In Import/Export Activities. Conceptualized In May, 1986, In Response To Changes In Export License Controls. P.A.E.I
http://www.paei.org

83. Welcome To Export-sources.Com For Volume Importers Worldwide
A Comprehensive Database On Export Sources Of Products And Suppliers On Hong Kong, Taiwan And China For Volume Importers, Distributors And Retailers Worldwide.
http://www.mbmags.com

84. Business Lithuania - Lithuanian companies, importers, exporters
Lithuanian companies, importers, exporters, producers, service providers
http://www.businesslithuania.lt

85. Construction Machines Importers,India Hydraulic Construction
Karthik Engineering- construction machines importers, hydraulic construction machines distributors and hydraulic construction machinery importers from India
http://www.karthikengineering.com

86. India Trade Lead, Exporters ,Importers, manufacturers directory
Online searchable business B2B directory of yellow pages of Indian Exporters, Importers, Manufacturers and service providers and also providing demands and offers from foreign business houses
http://www.indiatradelead.com

87. Importers, Wholesalers, and Dropship Distributors of 4000 of
We are Importers, Wholesalers, and Dropship Distributors of 4000 Wholesale Products. No membership fees required. Sell in single quantities or in bulk
http://www.jupiterdiscounts.com

88. Cutters, Polishers, Manufacturers, Importers and Exporters of Loo
R. Kantilal & Company, established in the year 1965, are Cutters, Polishers, Importers and Exporters of Loose Diamonds. The Company’s field of expertise lies in manufacturing and dealing in polished diamonds. We are known for our specialization in the lar
http://www.rkantilal.com

89. Global Auto Parts Importers Directory
Online B2B directory of Auto Parts importers, automotive parts and accessories from 240 countries
http://www.autoparts-importers.com

90. Nordic Log Cabin Company - Importers Of Log Cabins And Log
Uk Importers Of Quality Log Buildings From Finland, Including Log Cabins, Holiday Chalets, Garden Buildings, Home Offices, And Summerhouses
http://www.nordiclogcabin.com

91. Hookah Shisha Importers - Wholesale
Hookah wholesale offered by Hookah Importers. Stocking the largest selection of high quality hookah, shisha, hookah, sheesha, shishah, huka, products backed by industry leading customer service
http://www.hookahimporters.com

92. Dilipkumar & Co - Importers And Indenting Agents Of Chemicals
Dilipkumar & Co - Importers And Indenting Agents Of Pharmaceutical Raw Materials, Bulk Drugs, Chemicals And Poultry Feed Supplements.
http://www.dilipkumarandco.com

93. Abhay Exports Exporters Importers running online auctions
Importers Exporters and indenting agents for all kinds of chemicals, also running an online chemicals marketplace chembargains.Com
http://abhayexports.chembargains.com

94. Manufacturers in India: Indian Manufacturer, Suppliers, Importers
Manufacturer Directory - Suppliers, Manufacturers, Exporters & Importers, Bag Sellers and Buyers in India, Asia or World
http://www.manufacturersinindia.net

95. Hookah Shisha Wholesale, Importers, Wholesalers, & Distributors
Hookah wholesale offered by Hookah Importers. Stocking the largest selection of high quality hookah, shisha, hookah, sheesha, shishah, huka, products backed by industry leading customer service
http://www.turnkeyhookah.com

96. Houseware Importers,Buyers, Dealers, Kitchenware,Tableware
Houseware, Kitchenware, Tableware Importers Exporters Manufacturers, Buyers Directory of Household Utensils, Cookware, Cutlery, Cups & Plates, Table Top, Dinner Sets, Dishes, Knife, Knives, Brushes, Brooms etc
http://www.housewarebuyers.com

97. Bohemian Crystal And Gift Importers Tel/Fax: (847) 587-8665
Bohemian Crystal & Gift Importers, Inc., Purchases Only The Highest Quality Products Manufactured In The Czech And Slovak Republics, On A Factory Direct Basis. That Is Why You Will Find Our Products And Gifts, Are Substantially Lower In Price Than Any
http://bohemiancrystal.com

98. Manufacturers, Exporters, Suppliers Directory, Buy & Sell
Liveyellowpages.com is an Online searchable business (B2B) directory & yellow pages of indian exporters, importers & service providers as well as foreign exporters, importers & service providers
http://www.liveyellowpages.com

99. AgoraIndex - Import Export Agents - Manufacturers - Importers
AgoraIndex is a UK import export agency for manufacturers, exporters, importers, wholesalers and trade leads
http://www.agoraindex.co.uk

100. Importers of Vanda & Ascocenda Orchids from Thailand
We are one of the USA’s largest importers of Vanda and Ascocenda Orchids from Thailand. High quality & great price
http://www.siam-orchids.com

Source : www.polyester-nylon-cotton-silk-wool-knitting-fabric.com

Trade Europe Global: Providing Buyers with Import-Export Goods

2008-07-11T16:29:00.000+05:30

If you are in search of a B2B market place within Europe which sells a wide array of product selections, the best site to check out is Trade Europe Global. This is an open market which provides its buyers with thousands of product choices. The items that are sold at Trade Europe Global are not limited to household items or office supplies. If you are looking for machineries, you can find these at the market. You can also choose to purchase livestock, agricultural products, and electrical appliances here. If you are searching for a property or a home, you can look into the real estate category of the site. On the other hand, you can also opt to avail of the services that are being offered by the sellers and suppliers of Trade Europe Global.

Considered as Europe’s largest B2B market place, Trade Europe Global offers its consumers with a wide range of product categories. Under these categories are several products which are supplied by local and foreign suppliers. Some of these suppliers come from countries like China, Malaysia, Germany, Italy, and India. Because of the huge number of manufacturers and companies selling their products and services at Trade Europe Global, you can expect to take a pick from thousands of different items.

Trade Europe Global is a Europe import export market place. This is where you can find products which come from various parts of the world. When you are interested in items from India, you can go for brass or wooden phones. Or else, you can opt for the country’s candlestick telephones. On the other hand, a supplier from China offers buyers with sealant products which are derived from an organic silicon’s macromolecule polymer. These sealants are available in 3 different types which are the super sealant, the acidity sealant, and the neutral sealant which is fit for weather proofing. European manufacturers are also offering their own products here at Trade Europe Global. One best-selling product of the market which has been manufactured by a European country is the Rolls Royce from Germany.

If you are not particular with the manufacturer of a certain product, you can choose from specific categories such as apparels and accessories or outdoor and home furniture. When you go for the former, your choices include sleepwear and robes. You can also purchase outdoor garments like shorts, skirts, and trousers. Dresses, tops, and shirts are also available. On the other hand, you can buy lingerie and underwear. You can also find footwear at Trade Europe Global. If you are into jewelries and accessories, there are several options for you. When you are thinking of sewing draperies and curtains, you can buy textile at this market.

If you want to buy outdoor and home furniture, your choices involve sets which are made from plastic, metal, and wood. You can purchase tables, chairs, and accessories for your furniture. These might include throw pillows, cushions, and divans. Other than furniture sets for your lawn and home, this European market place also offers its buyers with office furniture. If you are looking for items for your office, you might want to throw in some supplies, too. Trade Europe Global also sells stationery, office papers, instruments for writing and drawing, presentation equipments, and other supplies for office or business use.

Source : jeromesimpson.wordpress.com

Using Online B2b Marketplaces To Expand Your Importexport Business

2008-07-11T16:17:00.000+05:30

The international trade business is growing increasingly popular. Innovative new technology and improved foreign relations have changed the manner in which companies operate and market their businesses. Importing and exporting is easier and more effective than ever before. Almost any imaginable product can now be sent or received from countries spanning the entire globe.

Online B2B Marketplaces
One of the main reasons for the change in the import/export industry is the increase in the number of worldwide individuals using computers. Many more individuals and companies now enjoy regular access to the internet. Consequently, advanced online marketing techniques are continuously being created to address the current needs of consumers and retailers worldwide.

Online business-to-business (B2B) marketplaces are becoming much more prevalent. E-commerce allows international trade companies to expand much faster and locate a wider variety of wholesale products than using traditional methods. Basically, if you have a product you wish to find or sell, there is most likely an individual or company who is more than willing to help.

Advantages
Websites such as Import-Export-Guide facilitate the process by providing online B2B marketplaces for wholesalers, distributors, manufacturers, buyers and suppliers alike. Online B2B marketplaces bring all of these people together in one virtual place so they can quickly and easily locate the exact items they require. No valuable time is wasted driving to different companies, visiting various wholesale suppliers or making long-distance phone calls. Online B2B marketplaces are open 24/7 so companies can maximize their productivity. They also allow international trade companies to access wholesale products and contacts from anywhere in the world. This can open up an entire new world, especially for smaller businesses that may have a limited budget for advertising and marketing. They dont need to spend valuable time or resources trying to locate wholesale suppliers or wholesale products.

Trade Leads
If you are looking to purchase goods, sell stock or form new business partnerships, you should consider using one of the many online B2B marketplaces. These online sites provide a great opportunity to locate a large number of trade leads in a relatively short period of time. Trade leads can be acquired from the convenience of your home and on your own schedule. You never have to be concerned about showing up to find a business closed or products no longer available. They also companies and individuals to locate the products, contacts or information they require in a significantly shorter period of time than traditional contact methods.

Source : uptocomputer.blogspot.com

Import Export Articles : Global Trade Information

2008-07-11T16:12:00.002+05:30

In today’s stiff competitive world it is necessary that one should shell out all the required information about the trade practices and procedures, prevailing in the international arena. As due to the globalization of the world, trade is not confined to a national territory, it has crossed all the boundaries and reinforcing the entire universe.To undergone in any trade activity one should be well furnished with the requisite information about export or import trade practices, foreign trade policy, trade agreements. For endogenous growth, it is required to be familiar with the terms used in international trade in all facets of the industry.

In present technology driven world, there are many resources which are imparting aforesaid details in one blink. One of the such reputed on line business to business platform is indianindustry.com, which has encapsulated all the detailed information about the embassies, consultants, ports of India, special economic zone and associations. Its easy to find all the information about the global business practices clubbed at one place.

Indianindustry.com is an on line repository of updated trade information of international trade. It acts as a catalyst for powering the economic growth by allowing access to the information about worldwide trade practices and procedures. It has centralizes trade related information under different heads. By availing the information from indianindustry.com, it becomes relatively easy to develop and implement your export or import plan.

Indianindustry.com has made the process of acquiring precisely and correct trading information about the trade publication and journals more easier and dynamic. Earlier finding the list of useful trade practices was a cumbersome activity. But now by clicking on the useful links, one can easily acquaint itself with the knowhow of the trade publisher and subscription details. It provides up to the minute information encompassing the trade and business policies.

indianindustry.com helps in unveiling the detailed information about the worldwide trade data and practices. It is one of the most trustworthy site which unfolds the govt. data and details. Various links are provided which are helpful in accessing the overall view of taxation, custom duty and right to information act and many more. Enlisting the information about special economic zone, trade associations, councils is no more remains a tedious job.

Besides aforesaid data, one can overlook the reliable trade statistics of India in Rupees and US Dollars. Its easy to forecast the trade practices on the ground of trade statistics categorization, made by indianindustry.com.

The domain provides a full account of the information for buyers which gives a snapshot of guidelines while dealing with the international sellers. It is one of the most pivotal information forum for excelling into universal trading practices.

Indianindustry.com assures plethora of information about the trade practices prevailing in the worldwide market sector. It ensures flow of free and steady data about the guidelines for sellers, payment mode, which bridges and culminates business excellence for all active players of sector.

Source : www.importerbase.com

B2B Portals Transform International Trade to Simple Trade

2008-07-11T15:53:00.000+05:30

Every entrepreneurâ€™s dream is to graduate from oneâ€™s domestic trade level to international trade and thereby increase oneâ€™s profit margins manifold. Until few years ago this remained as a distant dream, but today it has been made a reality by the opportunities created by ingenious services provided by Business to Business (B2B) web portals. B2Bs have a database of exporters and importers around the globe and any legal business entity regardless of size can register in these portals. These portals provide two types of memberships, free membership and premium membership. Free membership is a trial version made available to the trader to understand the functions of the portal. But the premium membership gives maximum visibility and interactive facility to the trader to divine the desired result in a short span of time.History shows us that international traders used to just leave their places with their products or services, in search of new markets without any prior knowledge of the risks involved. Any such exploration in those days found success through sheer luck and these expeditions were not without any shortcomings either. They included risks related to expenditure, time and most importantly, lives of the people involved in the whole exercise. Those days, even after making a successful landing in a foreign territory, the traders had to encounter various issues like, language, socio-cultural differences and trading practices.

As the civilization evolved to the modernity of the present world, trading too got organized. With the deployment of modern trading practices in businesses around the globe enabled each and every trader to speak the universal language of business. Thus the trader was further able to de-risk the ill-effects of issues related to language, socio-cultural differences and trading practices. Moreover, the traders were emancipated from the fears of losing everything while foraying into new markets. Even though, the barriers for international trade vanished one by one, a seller to find a suitable buyer or vice versa beyond oneâ€™s market became a gargantuan task. During this period businesses survived solely on the basis of self network and through market to market publicity programs which involved enormous expenditure.

But B2B portals revolutionized the way the world is doing business right now. They are emerging as the next growth engine of Information Technology. B2Bs are the only interactive advertising tool and low cost trading tool available in the world of business today. The leading B2B portals are with a vast database of exporters and importers across the globe. B2Bs help especially small and medium enterprises to showcase their products or/and services in the world stage economically.

Skeptics of B2Bâ€™s still use their self networks to do business, by completely overlooking the expenditure, time and emotions incurred as a social obligation for the favors rendered to their self networks in the course of time. But when you become a premium member of a B2B, parties involved in the process only have to honor the business relationship. Those who suspect the authenticity of leading B2B portals either have used the services in the formative years of B2Bsâ€™ existence or have never used them at all. The rental of a city hoarding for a month will cost more than the subscription amount currently charged by any leading B2Bs per annum. The kind of response one receives from such hoardings is subjected mainly to the place where it is displayed and various other factors. As a matter of fact, hoardings and similar advertisement strategies make one to be in oneâ€™s office in anticipation of business. On the contrary, the B2B portalsâ€™ premium memberships play dual role, one is that of the interest generated for oneâ€™s products or/and services through the above strategies and the other is that one can approach the traders in the related field without incurring any extra cost. Due to globalization, even domestic markets across the world, is becoming virtually an international market. To conclude, if a trader does not use the premium services of the B2Bs, it would be very difficult for one to survive in the prevailing competitive globalized market.

Source : www.importerbase.com

International Trade – An Overview Of Import And Export

2008-07-09T18:14:00.000+05:30

The changing face of international trade, mainly due to
e-commerce, is forcing a new approach towards import and export
as a consequence, although international trade is necessary for
prosperity immaterial of its direction. First, international
trade, along with import and export is shown to shrink states’
ability to control the economy thanks to global forces. However,
if international trade is what you want to get into, you must be
aware of controlling forces like exchange rates, governmental
policies and how global sourcing operates. For example, services
sector is the rapidly growing international trade, of late.

International trade barriers are being broken and the world is
moving closer to an integrated global economy of free
international trade. There are indications that
complementariness between whole ownership and intra-firm import
and export leading to reduced global sourcing costs by
coordinated global operations, regulatory changes. However,
researches point to conditions which allow global sourcing,
international trade or bilateral import & export only when
preferential agreements are permitted and conversely, the same
global sourcing, international trade or bilateral import &
export is declined when preferential trade agreements are
forbidden.

On a macro scale, import and export provide significant job
opportunities multilaterally. Import and export operators, have
a social role to play, by providing training along with jobs.
International trade has been omnipresent and its economic and
social importance can be felt from the rise in increased
multilateral import/export triggered by excellence of global
sourcing.

International trade thrives much on Ricardian model of
comparative advantage the economies will gain through
import/export and global sourcing activities and is probably the
critical concept for marching ahead. In simple terms, import and
export dwells on those goods that make thorough use of domestic
advantages and disadvantages respectively through global
sourcing strengths of either of the parties.

-Factors Affecting International Trade and Global Sourcing

The premise that demand driven international trade and global
sourcing will ensure efficient production and growth differ
hugely for lesser countries pointing to the significance of
other factors.

Global sourcing, like international trade, helps countries
obtain products by import/export route from another country.
Besides, international trade allows countries to partake in a
global economy. The bottom line is, import and export, like
international trade is reinforcing global communities through
managed international trade system to produce expected outcomes.

The two faces of international trade- free trade and
protectionism keep clashing. It is a critical component of
wealth creation.

Bridal market to fuel jewelry sales in 2008

2008-07-08T16:59:00.000+05:30

New York--Experts predict jewelry sales will increase in 2008, despite the sluggish U.S. economy, thanks in large part to the bridal category.

The International Diamond Exchange forecasts a 3 percent increase in U.S. jewelry sales, from $64 billion in 2007 to $65.9 billion in 2008.

According to industry analyst Ken Gassman, Millennials--the children of Baby Boomers--are likely to spend heavily on bridal jewelry since they are wealthier than preceding generations.

Gassman also predicts 30 percent growth in the number of weddings that will take place within the next 10 years.

Source By : jewelryfriend.com/

How to Take Care of Your Gems

2008-07-08T16:54:00.000+05:30

Although gemstones are among the most durable of substances, they do need some care. Following a few general rules will make sure that they last for generations still looking like the day you bought them.

First of all: keep them clean! Rings in particular tend to collect dust and soap behind the stone, particularly if you wear them all the time. To clean transparent crystalline gemstones, simply soak them in water with a touch of gentle soap. If necessary, use a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone.

Even the hardest gemstone variety can be vulnerable to breakage if it has inclusions that weaken the crystal structure. Exercise common sense: if you have a ring set with a softer gem variety or an included stone, take it off before strenuous exercise.

Sources : jewelryfriend.com/

Pak gem traders want open border

2008-07-08T11:10:00.000+05:30

NEW DELHI: Jewellers and gem traders from across the border have asked the governments of India and Pakistan to open up border to facilitate trade.

"At present, whatever jewellery trade is done between the two countries is via Dubai. As the jewellery market is unorganised and most of them are small jwellers or merchents, a lot of business between the two country is illegal," Gold Art Promotion Council-Pakistan Pakistan President Muhammad Azghar, who is here to attend a jewellery exhibition 'JCK New Delhi 2008', told media.

"We want political establishment of both the countries to open up the borders to facilitate our trade," he added.

Karachi is the main commercial hub of gems and jewellery supplying 60 per cent of the total demand to the other parts of the country.

"The Madras Jewellery is quite popular in our country, but due to the trade restrictions, we are not able to take it our market readily," GAPC General Secretary Syed Masood Ali said, adding Bangles from across the border is equally popular in India.

Pakistan is eager to import Indian machines and buy Indian designs apart from the regular trade in the precious metal. The gold market in India is at USD 13.5 billion at present, slated to reach USD 20 billion by 2010 and jump to USD 23.5 Bn by 2012, said, COO of Reed Exhibitions India, the organiser of the event, Mandeep Singh.

Jewellers and gem traders from Pakistan, along with their counterparts from Dubai and Italy are participating a jewellery exhibition.

Source by economictimes.indiatimes.com

Flawless Diamond Opens exclusive retail outlet at Lokhandwala Complex

2008-07-08T10:41:00.000+05:30

Flawless Diamond India Ltd has announced that the Company is opening up its 21st retail outlet at Premises No.16, Embassy Apartment, Apana Char Co.Op. Housing Society, Unit No.6, Lokhandwala Complex. Andheri (West), Mumbai-400 053. This is very prime location of western suburb in the Mumbai city for this kind of retail business.

Company will introduce its newly innovated exclusive designs of its Diamond Studded Jewellery. Company is confident to achieve better retail sale from this outlet. This is the part of the Company's retail expansion programme of opening up 100 outlets.

Flawless Diamond India Ltd is 19 years old Company initially engaged in Diamond export-import business. Promoter has a 25 years experience of Jewellery business. Two years before the Company has decided to enter in to the branded and non branded designers Jewellery business.

After having success in this area then decided to entering in to the retailing of branded and non branded designer Jewellery. Then Company introduced and well established its brand "AUM".

The Company has already introduced several series of its brand "AUM" like AUM Elegant, Aum Signature, AUM Ethereal, AUM Solitaire, AUM Star, AUM Galaxy, AUM Bridal, AUM Classic etc. To innovate time to time new exclusive Designs and introduced that in to the market, the Company has its own three state of Art Designers studios and many numbers of artists. The Company has its own R & D Department for this. To sell this designers Jewellery Company has own 21 retail outlets and number of franchises across India.

Mr. Bhawar U Jain, M D of the Company says "We at Flawless put in every possible effort to meet the expectations of our customers and established value added retail business. Because of total satisfaction of our customers and our commitment towards successfully established chain of retail outlets across the India. We are confident for opening up 100 outlets very soon".

Source: Equity Bulls

Importers, exporters get tips on global markets

2008-07-02T14:45:00.000+05:30

Wambuzi admires brochures on display during the tour of the importers and exporters exhibition at the UMA Hall

By Mark Owor

THE Private Sector Foundation and MTN on Friday held an international trade exhibition for importers and exporters. Dubbed, ‘Making it Easier to Trade Locally and Across Borders,’ the fair was meant to reinforce the traders’ relationships with their service providers with a long-term view of obtaining-mutually beneficial partnerships.

“As a ministry, we want to underscore the importance of working together with the private sector so that they can achieve their goal-trading out of poverty, into wealth and prosperity,” Gagawala Wambuzi, the state minister for trade, told the exhibitors at the UMA Main Exhibition Hall, Lugogo.

He added: “My ministry, which is responsible for trade, is fully committed to eliminating barriers to trade, providing an enabling environment in which the private sector can thrive and building capacity to produce quality goods and services in a manner that is competitive, reliable, and sustainable.”

The minister disclosed that the Government was aware of the non-tariff barriers that hindered trade.

“These affect the way we do business because they increase the cost of doing business and in some cases, make it extremely difficult or completely impossible to do business at all,” Wambuzi said.

Exporters and importers complained that many financial institutions had not developed products to address their needs.

They said micro-finance institutions, which lend over 25% to the exporters and importers, do not offer letters of credit, telegraphic transfers, collections, guarantees and bid bonds. They argued that this had caused many exporters to be denied visas into the export markets.

Govt approves cruise shipping policy, lifts taxes

2008-06-27T17:30:00.000+05:30

New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs Thursday approved the Cruise Shipping Policy of India that envisages a zero-tax regime for cruise ship operators.

Under the policy, cruise operators will be exempted from income-tax, excise duty, customs duty, corporate tax and service tax that accounts for almost a third of their total revenues.

A mini-township on the high seas, cruise shipping is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing components of the leisure industry worldwide, fast emerging as a new marketable commodity.

Growing globally at the rate of 12 per cent annually, this sector has witnessed some activity in India as well of late. However, it is still in its infancy in the country.

The cruise ship industry annually generates $14 billion worldwide and enjoys a passenger base of over 10 million, which is expected to almost double by 2009.

India's share is only 2 per cent, despite its vast coastline of over 7,000 km.

“Cruise shipping would be a path-breaking development in India's effort to carve a prominent space in world tourism, showcasing India as a major source and destination of world tourism,” Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Prithviraj Chavan told reporters after the CCEA meeting.

Source: Sify Walletwatch.

Vietnam suspends gold imports on trade gap-WGC

2008-06-23T18:17:00.000+05:30

SINGAPORE, June 23 (Reuters) - Vietnam, one of Asia's main gold consumers, has suspended issuing gold import quota for local banks and trading houses in June due to a widening trade gap, a World Gold Council official said on Monday.

"The government is very concerned. They have to reduce trade balance deficit. Gold is one of the main imports," said Hyunh Trung Khanh, a consultant for the Vietnam chapter of World Gold Council.

"So far, Vietnam has imported 60 tonnes of gold, with the value of $1.8 billion (Jan-May). They have to temporarily suspend imports. The central bank has temporarily suspended gold imports until further notice. All the imports quotas are suspended."

Traditionally, Vietnamese only use gold for jewellery and real estate transactions but when inflation is high many choose gold or the U.S. dollar to hedge against inflation.

Vietnam's annual inflation rate hit 25.2 percent in May, while the trade deficit has tripled this year.

Vietnam imported around 30 tonnes of gold in January-May in 2007, according to the WGC figures. (Reporting by Lewa Pardomuan; Editing by Lincoln Feast)

Source: Reuters India

More perks for gems and jewellery business

2008-06-13T18:06:00.000+05:30

Gujarat prevails over almost 80 per cent of the diamond polishing business and its contribution to gems and jewellery is also increasing with time. In the new industrial policy, the Government is all set to spring a surprise package for the industry to increase its share of business in the state.

The government would give special assistance to set up Hallmark Certification Centres so that jewellery produced in the state would be recognised at global level.

As the Rs 90,000 crore diamond cutting and polishing business, gold, silver and precious stone business have the potential to get into bigger markets, the government has set up a gems and jewellery park near Surat, the diamond hub. Besides, the task force looking into the new industrial policy has recommended some incentives for setting up a gems and jewellery park.

The task force has recommended that for setting up a gems & jewellery park, with a minimum of 50 units including service unit, a financial support at 50 per cent of fixed capital investment in land, building and infrastructure facilities upto maximum of Rs. 2.5 crore per park should be given.

Hallmarked jewellery produced in these parks is expected to be promoted globally. The task force has recommended establishment of Hallmark certification centres. The task force has recommended financial support to the extent of 50 per cent on the cost of equipments, limited to Rs. 35 lakh.

The task force has also asked to set up Hallmark certification centres and consumer awareness programmes in all districts of the state and reference will be given to the districts where no Hallmarking Centres exist, said sources associated with the task force.

The sources added, "Criteria for Hallmarking centre will be as per Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)/ International Norms. The recommendation has been made to the industries department that financial assistance should be extended for buying costly equipments for such a facility. The good news is that BSI has recently received international recognition."

According to sources, the task force has also demanded a common testing facility for diamond and gems business in line with gems and jewellery business and recommended financial support of 50 per cent of the equipment cost, to a maximum of Rs. 25 lakh subject to accreditation by National Accreditation Agency or fulfillment of criteria of BIS.

The task force has recommended that gems and jewellery and diamond units should be encouraged to participate in trade fairs. The task force has recommended assistance at 50 per cent rent subject to a maximum of Rs 2 lakh each for domestic participation and Rs 5 lakh for International participation in trade fairs to a group of entrepreneurs, where the minimum number is 10.

Source: Business Standard.

Gems, jewellery export may double by 2015

2008-06-09T18:05:00.000+05:30

NEW DELHI, June 8: A multi-pronged approach is needed to position exports of gems and jewellery sector on to a higher growth trajectory, which could double in the next seven years, provided the industry takes some innovative steps, the industry chamber Ficci has said.

“A multi-pronged approach like transformation of the sector from family-owned to a professionally-managed business, innovation in design, focus on new markets and use of advanced technologies will push the gems and jewellery export to $37 billion by 2015,” the chamber said in a study.

This four-fold strategy, says the Ficci study, will push exports from the current $18 billion to $21 billion by 2010 and to $37 billion by 2015. Ficci also foresees an integration of jewellery, luxury and fashion as the next step in this ever-growing sector.

In 2006-07, exports from the industry stood at $17.1 billion, against $16.64 billion in 2005-06, registering a growth of 2.6 per cent.

The chamber also suggested that direct supply of rough diamonds from Angola, Canada and other diamond mining countries would be facilitated and most of the unorganised stone cutting units should be changed to organised ones.

“Certification of jewellery should be made mandatory and all exporters should be allowed to import gold freely,” it said. n SNS

Source: The Statesman.

India's Export Growth in April

2008-06-04T17:08:00.000+05:30

By Kartik Goyal

June 2 (Bloomberg) -- India's export growth accelerated in April as companies shipped more gems, jewelry, oil and other manufactured products to overseas markets.

Shipments jumped 31.5 percent to $14.4 billion from a year earlier, faster than March's 26.6 percent gain, the government said in a statement in New Delhi today. Imports in April rose 36.6 percent to $24.3 billion, widening the trade deficit to an all-time high of $9.87 billion.

Overseas sales have risen as companies boost shipments to Europe, Japan and other developing Asian nations to counter slowing demand from the U.S., India's biggest export market. Increased sales abroad may help sustain growth in Asia's third- largest economy as inflation at a 3 1/2-year high crimps domestic spending.

Indian exports ``are being buttressed by strong demand from emerging markets and oil-producing countries, helping offset slackening demand from OECD countries,'' said Sonal Varma, a Mumbai-based economist at Lehman Brothers Inc. ``A weaker currency also bodes well for India's low-cost, labor-intensive exports, notably textiles and leather.''

Exports to the U.S. rose 9.3 percent in the nine months to Dec. 31, slower than the 10.6 percent gain in the same period a year earlier, according to the latest breakdown of overseas sales released by the central bank. India gives a more detailed analysis of exports five months after releasing initial data.

Shipments to Europe rose 25.5 percent in the nine-month period, from 16.2 percent in the year earlier, the central bank said. Exports to Germany gained 29.3 percent and sales to the Netherlands jumped 91 percent.

Weaker Currency

``I am confident that we will be able to sustain the growth process and overcome the challenges we face on account of the global slowdown,'' Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said today, addressing a grouping of industries in New Delhi today.

A weaker rupee is good for Indian exporters, Trade Minister Kamal Nath said last week. The rupee has declined 7.16 percent this year, making it the second-worst performer among Asia's 10 most-traded currencies excluding the yen.

``The deterioration in the external position has been an important reason why the rupee has softened a bit more than the currencies of several of its Asian partners over recent months,'' said Robert Prior-Wandesforde, a senior economist at HSBC Holdings Plc in Singapore.

Trade Deficit

The trade deficit may widen to 9 percent of the gross domestic product in the fiscal year to March 2009 and the current account deficit to 2.8 percent, Prior-Wandesforde said.

To help boost overseas sales, the government plans to focus on promoting exports to 10 countries including Mongolia, Bosnia- Herzegovina, Albania, Macedonia, Croatia, Honduras, Djibouti, Sudan, Ghana and Colombia, Nath said on April 11.

Nath has set a target of more than tripling India's share of world trade to 5 percent by the year 2020 from the current 1.5 percent.

India's oil imports in April rose 46.2 percent to $8.03 billion as Indian refiners paid more for import of crude oil imports. India relies on imports of overseas crude oil to meet its three-quarters of its energy needs. Non-oil imports gained 32.3 percent to $16.2 billion.

``The unrelenting rise in crude oil prices threatens to disrupt the development process in a large number of oil importing developing countries,'' Singh said today.

Source: Bloomberg.com

Gems & jewellery exports up 22%; HK, US biggest buyers

2008-05-21T18:28:00.000+05:30

Total gems and jewellery exports from India stood at $20.9 billion for FY’08, a growth of 22.27% over $17.1 billion the previous year, according to the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). The United States and Hong Kong were the largest importers of gems and jewellery from India, with a share of 26% each, followed by UAE at 21%.

But, it seems to be a mixed bag for the southern gems and jewellery sector. While cut and polished diamond exports from the region saw a 148.54% rise over last year at $102.1 million, exports of gold jewellery fell by 17.41%. This was despite an increase in exports of gold jewellery at the national level, from $5,202.48 million in FY’07 to $5,622.41 this year. The total exports from south India was at $1,458.8 million, a decline of 10.7% over last year.

The council further states in its report that the lack of a well-equipped gems and jewellery training institute in the south is one of the biggest challenges that the sector faces. “Despite being a big jewellery market, there’s no world-class institute in Chennai on the lines of institutes in Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur. We have applied to the government to give us space to set up such an institute here,” GJEPC chairman Sanjay Kothari

told ET. There is also a problem with regard to the supply of gold in the region as nominated agencies are not in a position to cater to the exports and concentrate on domestic business only. Even MMTC operates only selectively in Chennai, with no operations in Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad or Cochin.

Even domestic sales seem to have taken a hit. Amid reports of a not-so-glittering Akshaya Tritiya this year, comes a World Gold Council (WGC) press note, which claims that despite a fall in sales volume, there has been an increase in value terms. Although sales were down to 48.99 tonne of gold this year (during Akshaya Tritiya) against 55 tonne in 2007, there was a 19% growth in value terms as prices were at Rs 12,000 per 10 gm, up from Rs 9,000 per 10 gm for the corresponding period last year.

Source: The Economic Times.

Gem and jewellery export touches $20.9 bn

2008-05-17T15:56:00.000+05:30

The export by gem and jewellery in India has touched $20.9 billion, growing by 22 per cent this year as compared to $17.1 last year.
India 's gem and jewellery industry contributes 13.41 per cent of total merchandise export of the country expects 30 per cent growth in the current year.

United States and HongKong are the largest importers of gems and jewelary from India with a share of 26 per cent each.

Source: Business Standard.

India Intensifies Polish Diamond Imports

2008-05-15T18:18:00.000+05:30

India exported polished diamonds to the tune of $1.241 billion in April, shipping out some 3.434 million carat of goods. This is a strong 42.45 percent increase in the value of exports compared to April 2007, according to provisional data provided by the Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council.

Even after discounting the falling value of the U.S. dollar, the value of exports rose by nearly a third - 30.65 percent.

But the interesting story is the imports that nearly doubled in value. Polished diamond imports totaled $652.29 million as more than 2.14 million carats were brought into the country. The volume figure does not include imports to the special economic zones.

As the country’s middle class is growing, purchases of diamond jewelry are growing with it, almost hand in hand. In dollars, total polished imports soared 196.74 percent, even while imports to the SEEZs and Bonded Warehouses fell more than 63 percent.

Imports to Surat, India’s diamond manufacturing center, shot up from $6.77 million in April 2007 to $395.72 million last month.

In terms of average value, exports stood at an average of $361.39 per carat, while the average value of imports in April reached $295.80 per carat.

Source: IDEX, International Diamond Exchange.

The IIJS Signature Show – Expanding Horizons for the Indian Gems & Jewellery Industry

2008-05-14T18:00:00.000+05:30

The Show, organized by Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India culminated by fulfilling its promise of showcasing the Indian jewellery industry, while providing a platform for business opportunities in a unique and innovative venue. The IIJS Signature show, based in Goa, is a key part of GJEPC’s strategy to position the Indian gem and jewellery industry internationally as the ‘preferred source of quality gems & jewellery’.

Specifically, the IIJS Signature show provides an ideal platform for companies to meet serious buyers from unique countries like Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, hence providing more opportunities for the Indian jewellery industry and further enhancing India’s position in the global jewellery market.

The emphasis of the show is to portray the potential and strength of the Indian jewellery industry in design and innovation of products ranging from plain gold jewellery, studded jewellery, platinum and silver jewellery. The Chairman of GJEPC, Mr. Sanjay Kothari, commented, “I am proud about the achievement of the Indian Gem and Jewellery Industry. We have ensured that the IIJS Signature show serves as a platform to forge strong and enduring business relationships. The exhibitors were the most renowned companies in India, and their manufacturing abilities are at par with international centers in terms of design quality and craftsmanship.”

IIJS Signature was well received by both buyers and exhibitors. Most of the 100 exhibitors, who were showcasing high-end or couture jewellery for a mixed visitor base of Indian and overseas retailers, reported orders and interest from a variety of buyers from geographical regions as diverse as Russia, Japan, Australia, the United States, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Syria, Dubai and the Kurdish region of northern Iraq.

Mr. Sanjiv Khandelwal, Managing Director of Polygon in India, who attended the show added, “IIJS Signature has set new standards for tradeshows by offering a powerful presentation in an environment most conducive to business and leisure”.

The IIJS Signature initiative to bring in high-end jewellery buyers from across the globe is just one of the steps being made by the industry to further enhance India’s position in the global jewellery market. Polygon—the jewellery industry’s largest e-marketplace—supported the show by conducting various e-marketing campaigns and techniques to attract visitors from its’ strong base in Dubai and the GCC regions.

Source: LIVE-PR

Gemstone Industry rejoices on Exemption of duty on Gemstones from 5 percent

2008-05-12T17:26:00.000+05:30

The Indian gem industry recently celebrated the exemption of import duty on coloured gemstones and is certain about maintaining its competitiveness in world jewellery sector. The country currently imports rough coloured gemstones from Bangkok, Thailand and other countries. Shri P. Chidambaram; Honorable Finance Minister tabled the Finance Bill (2007-2008) on 3rd May 2008, exempting custom duty on Cut and Polished Diamonds. In the recently announced Union Budget (2007-2008), custom duty on cut and polished diamonds was reduced to 3 percent from 5 percent. The Council had made several representations to Government on the exemption of custom duty on cut and polished diamonds.

"I had reduced the customs duty on cut & polished diamonds from 5 percent to 3 percent. The Gems and Jewellery Industry had represented that the duty should be at zero percent in line with other countries. Ministry of Commerce has supported this proposal. However, if we find that the decision adversely affects the import of uncut diamonds or adversely affects employment in the cutting and polishing industry, we shall immediately review the decision. It is our intention to preserve, nurture and expand the cutting and polishing industry in India,” said Chidambaram.

Zero import duty will help in easy availability of coloured gemstones of various sizes and qualities in India, which would infuse growth and diversification of studded jewellery exports. The exports are predicted to rise with the exemption of duty on colour stones. The exports from Jaipur were around Rs.22000 crore and are expected to reach over Rs. 25000 crore till the end of the year. Nirmal Bardiya of RMC Gems said, “This is a very good move and will make outside stones available in India easily. It will provide variety for domestic as well as international markets. The prices will be competitive and will make it affordable to import these stones from abroad.” Bardiya is happy with the government’s initiative and efforts to promote the industry. Manufacturers will be able to source stones on their trip abroad, and provide clients with what they require on time, at affordable prices and earn profits.

India is currently facing labor layoff and shortage of jobs, due to completion from China and Bangkok. Vivek Kala of Kalajee Jewellery suggests that to stay in competition with these markets and to stay ahead in trade, India needs to change the way it works and work united towards achievement of the aims. Vivek Kala explains, “We think the government has delayed making this move for a long time of exempting taxes on imports. There are other problems that also need to be addressed like the provision of loans at special interest rates so that we can stay in competition and do good business in world markets. Another problem is infrastructure which needs to be addressed. Special attention should be given to tourism since it will help boost trade in cities like Jaipur where most coloured stone trade is carried on.”

Source: Diamond World News Service

Launch of www.Made-from-India.com - A B2B portal for Exporters & Importers with a difference

2008-05-07T09:29:00.000+05:30

Made-from-India.com Launches New Global Marketplace for Indian Manufacturer and Exporter

India, 01/03/08 - Made-from-India introduces new services to its online business-to-business (B2B) portal, which provides a professional business platform for the Indian exporters, manufacturers, suppliers and businessmen of any country who are involved into import-export trade. This portal is far more advanced and extensive in terms of its features and not just an online version of any other portals. It aims at qualitative and genuine data, rather than quantitative approach.

Made-from-India firmly believes that today is the age of information and half baked or incomplete information is always as suicidal as wrong information. Here, quality meets both genuineness and seriousness in business, as business always means profit. We have just tried to emerge as a reliable and complete information hub, and for that we are doing every effort to make it most complete one to meet the competitive environment. Our editorial team brings latest industry news, does research and brings out sartorial analysis, articles and highlights, along with brand launches, product catalogues and news features. Adding to the multitude are the Editor blogs, Expert comments and many more to come.

Exclusive services from Made-from-India.com:

v Product Directory (List of manufacturers, suppliers, exporters, global traders)-user can find only quality as we don’t believe in quantity.

v Trade Leads (Post buying and selling leads)- one can realize how it is different

v Virtual Office – an online revolutionary office existed never before.

v News (Keeping you updated with latest happening from niche markets)-be in the competition, be with the latest of the world with analysis.

v General Information (Informational articles, whitepapers and case studies from industry veterans)- many more will be updated under the segment as information is never complete and never stops to become perfect.

v Trade services (professional support and assistance).

Made-from-India ensures that this is one of the most user-friendly portals focusing on multiple areas while catering to the requirements of countless individuals belonging to import-export, in a simple and comprehensive manner. At the same, we always seek your advice for improvement at info@made-from-india.com

About Made-from-India

Made-from-India is an innovative and comprehensive online business-to-business (B2B) portal. It’s not just another B2B portal, but is meant for serious businessman only who care for Costing, Profit, Turn Over, Brand Promotion, Brand Creation, Brand Make Over, Edge Over others, and Growth.

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India seeks rough diamond supply from African markets

2008-05-02T18:24:00.000+05:30

India, which is facing a shortage of rough diamonds, has sought uninterrupted supply of the same mainly from the African market.

"Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has requested the International Diamond Manufacturers Association (IDMA) to present a report on the capacity of mines worldwide for supply of rough diamonds," GJEPC Chairman Sanjay Kothari told reporters on the sidelines of a press meet here on Tuesday.

In the processing sector, India was losing its edge and nearly one million jobs were at stake, he said.

"We must procure rough diamonds and protect the jobs of one million skilled workers. We want to procure rough diamonds from South Africa," he said.

"Our mission is to enable every individual associated with the Indian gems and jewellery industry to achieve his full potential," he added.

"The study will help us understand the future action that GJEPC would need to take to bridge the gap between the demand and supply of rough diamonds available," GJEPC's Vice-Chairman Vasant Mehta said.

The Diamond Trading Company has assured the industry that it would take steps to ensure the supply in the future, he said.

Meanwhile, as a part of making India the preferred source for quality gems and jewellery, GJEPC has taken major initiatives to promote Indian jewellery to end users in markets such as the US, China, Middle East, CIS, Russia.

Source: http://economictimes.indiatimes.com

India Scraps Import Taxes on Steel to Curb Prices

2008-05-01T18:10:00.000+05:30

India scrapped import taxes on pig iron and other steel products to bolster domestic supplies and curb inflation, holding near a three-year high.

The country will also levy export taxes on steel products including cold-rolled coils, Finance Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram told lawmakers in parliament today.

The import duty cuts, effective today, will cost the government 15 billion rupees ($371 million), Chidambaram said. Anti-inflation measures announced earlier would have cost the government 48.4 billion rupees, he said.

Wholesale prices rose 7.41 percent in the last week of March from a year earlier, the most since November 2004, according to government data. Price gains eased to 7.33 percent in the week ended April 12.

The export taxes will take effect when the budget proposals get the assent of the president, Chidambaram said. The following are details of import duty changes:

* Basic customs duty reduced to zero from 5 percent on imports of
pig iron and mild steel products, including sponge iron,
granules, powders, ingots, billets, semi-finished products, hot-
rolled coils, cold-rolled coils, coated coil sheets, bars, rods,
angle shapes, sections and wires.
* Countervailing duty scrapped from the current 14 percent on TMT
bars and structurals, commonly used for construction of houses.
* Basic customs duty scrapped from the current 5 percent on
metallurgical coke, ferrous alloys and zinc, three inputs used
for manufacturing steel.

The following are details of new export duty levies:

* 15 percent export tax on overseas sales of specified primary
forms, semi-finished products, hot-rolled coils and sheets.
* 10 percent export tax on specified roll products, including
cold-rolled coils, pipes and tubes.
* 5 percent export tax on galvanized steel in coil and sheet
form.
Other measures:
* Reduction of import duty on skimmed milk powder to 5 percent
from 15 percent for a tariff rate quota of 10,000 metric tons per
year.
* Reduction of import duty on butter oil, used for milk
production, to 30 percent from 40 percent.
* Imposition of an export tax of 8,000 rupees per ton on overseas
sales of basmati rice.
* Reduction in the minimum export price of basmati to $1,000 per
metric ton from $1,200.

Source: http://www.bloomberg.com

Indian Polished Diamond Exports up by over 30 Percent.

2008-04-29T13:41:00.000+05:30

India’s gem and jewellery industry has witnessed a growth of 22.27 percent for the financial year 2007-08 as compared to the previous year, with the sector accounting for 13.41 percent of India’s total merchandise exports. This performance is all the more commendable considering the fact that the rupee showed a steady gain over the US dollar for most part of the year, notes a spokesman for the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).
Exports of cut and polished diamonds which was the performance driver for the period in consideration amounting to nearly 68 percent of the export basket, grew from US$10.9 billion in 2006-07 to US$14.2 billion in 2007-08. Hong Kong emerged as largest importer of cut and polished diamonds from India, with a share of 35 percent of the total ex ports followed by the United States, which accounted for 24 percent and United Arab Emirates at 13 percent.

“The industry has maintained a steady rate of growth this year too, but this growth is result of increase in trading activities as actual manufacturing has shown a decline. What is more remarkable about this performance is that they have been achieved in face of appreciating rupee, high interest rates, withdrawal of GSP benefits and general economic slowdown in our major markets. The increase in the exports of diamonds, that are cut and polished in the country are a testimony to the talent of our artisans in this industry. With the assistance of the government of India we at GJEPC are committed to take this industry forward. Over the years the government of India has keenly considered the needs of the Indian gem and jewelry industry and has made favourable amendments in policies to support the continuous growth. For instance last year the government of India reduced import duty on cut and polished diamonds to 0 percent that has helped India to be at par with other international manufacturing centres. This will enable India to transform from largest manufacturing centre to the global trading hub,” says Sanjay Kothari, Chairman of the GJEPC.

In other news, the GJEPC is now repositioning Indian gems and jewelry as “Epitome of Luxury” by developing programs such as ‘BRAND INDIA’, which is the Council’s initiative to promote Indian jewelry to the end users in markets such as the United States, China, the Middle East, CIS, Russia and India .

Source: http://www.diamondintelligence.com/

Indian jewellery exporters eye China

2008-04-23T17:30:00.000+05:30

US is losing its sheen as the biggest gems and jewellery importer with the recession hitting the American economy badly and China taking giant strides in the field.

According to traders and exporters, the recessionary trends in the world’s largest economy has stagnated the purchasing power of US consumers.

Following this, Indian exporters have lowered the purity of gold content in gold and diamond-studded jewellery in order to maintain the pricing.

The rampaging economy of China has improved the financial well-being of consumers, resulting into higher gem and jewellery consumption.

India’s exports to the US slumped to 26 per cent during 2007-08 from 35 per cent in the previous year while the shipment to Hong Kong jumped to 26 per cent from 15 per cent last year.

Gems & Jewellery Exports Promotion Council (GJEPC) attributed the slump in the exports to the US to a number of factors, including high gold price, depreciating US dollar, economic recession and huge appreciation in rough diamond prices.

The sudden fall in exports to the US can also partly be attributed to the withdrawal of generalised system of preferences (GSP).

The GSP, which provided the benefits of duty-free jewellery imports to underprivileged countries, including Bangladesh, was withdrawn on July 1, 2007.

Source: http://www.commodityonline.com/

Increase in Exports of Indian Gems and Jewellery

2008-04-21T17:48:00.000+05:30

India's

total gem and jewelry exports rose to $20.88 billion from $17.08 billion in the previous financial year, a growth of 22.27 percent. These results were announced by Sanjay Kothari, chairman of The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) at a press conference in Mumbai Tuesday.

Exports of cut and polished diamonds, representing 68 percent of total exports, reached $14.18 billion in the 2007-08 fiscal year, compared to $10.89 billion in the previous year, a growth of 30.19 percent.

Gold jewelry exports of both plain and studded jewelry grew by 8.07 percent to touch $5.62 billion – up from $5.20 billion in the previous year – representing a 27 percent share of the gems and jewelry exports.

Colored gemstone exports grew 12.15 percent to $276.42 million in 2007-08, compared to $246.47 million in the previous year.

Total gem and jewelry imports increased to $18.50 billion in fiscal 2007-08, from $13.97 billion. Rough diamond imports amounted to $9.79 billion, gold bar imports were worth $2.54 billion and cut and polished diamond imports added up to $5.43 billion.

However, the massive increase in polished diamond imports from $2.026 billion in 2006-07 to $5.43 billion in 2007-08, shows that there has been a marginal decrease in manufacturing activity, despite a major spurt in trading activity.

Furthermore, increasing gold prices have had an impact on gold jewelry exports, indicating that the overall manufacturing activity has declined to some extent.

Kothari pointed out that, among the factors negatively affecting the gem and jewelry industry were the U.S. recession, the slowing of jewelry sales and the depreciation of the rupee. He also acknowledged that this has led to a loss of some 150,000 jobs in the sector.

Some of the future initiatives announced by the chairman to boost the export sector were related to rough diamond sourcing, particularly from the African countries; focused market promotion with an emphasis on building Brand India; the development of a Trend Cell; talent development and a focus on design and innovation.

The country would make efforts towards initiating generic promotions of diamond jewelry by international organizations. IDMA has already come forward to pledge its support to any such move by world bodies and the CIBJO conference currently underway in Dubai, which was being attended by the Vice-Chairman of the Council Vasant Mehta, is also expected to make a similar commitment, Kothari said.

Source: http://www.idexonline.com/

The Foreign Trade Training Centre

2008-04-12T16:35:00.000+05:30

The Foreign Trade Training Centre (FTTC) operates under the auspices of the Egyptian Ministry of Trade and Industry. The FTTC currently trains more than 2,400 people with international trade programmes designed to enhance exporters’ knowledge and skills concerning current global economic and trading environments. Its agreement with the Institute of Export (IoE) will allow its trade members to be accredited by the Institute and benefit from the brand and its expertise.

The Memorandum of Understanding sets out a framework of activities which will be carried out with the FTTC. This includes developing programmes of education for its students, improving the performance and knowledge of the trainers and devising systems to measure the performance and development of the FTTC in general. The ultimate goal will be for the FTTC to operate a branch of the IoE covering Egypt, North Africa and parts of the Middle East.

Successful candidates of the programmes will become IoE graduates and will join an alumni of business people who have met one of the highest benchmarks in international trade knowledge. It is hoped that within the first year more than 200 people will undertake some form of IoE accredited training.

Chairman of the Institute of Export, Andy Nemes met with two of the representatives of the Egyptian Ministry of Trade & Industry, to sign the Memorandum of Understanding. Dr Saïd Harb, Executive Director of FTTC and Board Member Hala H Shawarby flew to London to sign the Memorandum and mark the alliance between the two trade bodies. The signing was hosted by Barclays and took place on the 30^th floor of their HQ in Canary Wharf.

Andy said: “This agreement is an acknowledgement of the quality of the training opportunities provided by the Institute and the reputation associated with the brand. We are delighted to get partner FTTC in Egypt and share our knowledge of international trade training with a wider audience.

“If the UK is to remain globally competitive, its ability to be a major player in the world of international trade is vital and this is just one of the ways forward to achieving that status. The alliance has received the full support of the UKTI and the Egyptian Ministry of Trade and we look forward to building on the relationship over the next three years.”

FTTC Executive Director Dr Said Harb, who has extensive experience in foreign trade and export development, said: “I am proud to be here today to sign this agreement, and look forward to joining forces with the Institute of Export to enhance export performance in Egypt and the neighbouring countries enhance competitiveness”.

This alliance is part of the Institute’s wider strategy to increase its presence in countries across the globe. Its office in Hong Kong recently hosted its first AGM and is increasing its membership daily. The Institute is constantly seeking to improve its education programmes to benefit international trade throughout the

and across the globe.

Source:http://www.export.org.uk/newsdesk/press

Formal vs. Informal Entry of Good in Import Export

2008-04-09T16:08:00.000+05:30

Formal vs. Informal Entry of Goods in Import Export

Informal entries cover personal shipments, commercial shipments and mail shipments that are being entered for consumption, i.e. for use or sale. In most cases informal entry can be used if the merchandise is valued at $2000 or less. There are some exceptions such as textiles, certain types of footwear and other goods subject to quota/visa restrictions. Personal shipments valued over $2000 will also require a formal entry. The difference between an informal entry and a formal entry is the bond requirement and the liquidation process. Liquidation is the final computation of duties or drawback accruing to an entry and is the final step in the entry process.

Formal entries are generally commercial shipments supported by a surety bond to ensure payment of duties and compliance with Customs requirements. A bond is like an insurance policy that is payable to Customs in the event that the importer does not comply with import requirements. Having a bond on file, allows an importer to take possession of his merchandise before the payment of duties, taxes and fees. Bonds can be obtained from a surety, which is an insurance company that has been authorized by the Treasury Department to write Customs bonds.

A port director can require a formal entry for any importation if he or she deems it necessary for the protection of the revenue or for admissibility or enforcement issues.

Goods admitted as informal entries do not require the posting of a bond and goods are liquidated on the spot. After the importer receives notification of the arrival of merchandise from the carrier and it is determined that all shipping charges are satisfied an invoice is presented to Customs. When an informal entry is being made, the inspector, not the importer, is responsible for determining the classification number of the goods being imported. The inspector also completes the Customs forms used for informal entry.

U.S. Import Requirements

2008-04-08T18:04:00.000+05:30

Import Requirements

An individual may make his/her own Customs clearance of goods imported for personal use or business. All merchandise coming into the United States must clear Customs and is subject to a Customs duty unless specifically exempted by law. Clearance involves a number of steps: entry, inspection, appraisement, classification and liquidation.

The U.S. Customs Service does not require an importer to have a license or permit. Other agencies may require a permit, license, or other certification, depending on what is being imported. Customs entry forms do ask for your importer number. This is either your IRS business registration number, or if your business is not registered with the IRS or you do not have a business, your social security number.

The importer must declare the dutiable value of merchandise. The final appraisement is fixed by Customs. Several appraisement methods are used to arrive at this value. The transaction value serves as the primary basis of appraisement. Transaction value is the price actually paid or payable by the buyer to the seller for the goods imported. Other factors may also add to the dutiable value of merchandise, such as packing costs, selling commissions, royalty or licensing fees, etc. When the transaction value cannot be determined, then the value of the imported goods being appraised is the transaction value of identical merchandise. If merchandise identical to the imported goods cannot be found or an acceptable transaction value for such merchandise does not exist, then the value is the transaction value of similar merchandise. Similar merchandise means merchandise that is produced in the same country and by the same person as the merchandise being appraised. It must be commercially interchangeable with the merchandise being appraised. The identical or similar merchandise must have been exported to the United States at or about the same time the merchandise being appraised is exported to the United States.

The importer must determine the classification number of the merchandise being imported. The Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), issued by the United States International Trade Commission, prescribes the classification of merchandise by type of product; e.g., animal and vegetable products, textile fibers and textile products.

The importer must pay estimated duties and processing fees if applicable. Customs makes the final determination of the correct rate of duty. The duty rate of an item is tied to its classification number. The HTSUS provides several rates of duty for each item: general rates for countries with which we maintain normal trade relations (NTR); special rates for special programs (free, or lower than the rates currently accorded NTR countries); and column 2 rates for imports not eligible for either general or special rates. Customs duties are generally assessed at ad valorem rates, a percentage of which is applied to the dutiable value of the imported goods. Some articles, however, are dutiable at a specific rate (so much per piece, liter, kilo, etc); others at a compound

rate of duty (i.e., combination of both ad valorem and specific rates).

If formal entry is required - the importer may have to post a surety bond.

· It is the importers responsibility to ensure that his or her goods being imported meet admissibility requirements - such as proper marking, safety standards, etc. - and that the proper permits, if required, have been obtained in advance of the goods arriving in the United States.

Arrival of Goods

Imported goods may not legally enter U.S. commerce until the shipment has arrived within the port of entry and Customs has authorized delivery of the merchandise. This is normally accomplished by filing the appropriate documents, either by the importer or by the importer's agent. To expedite this process, Customs entry papers may be presented before the merchandise arrives, but entry will not take place until the merchandise arrives within the port limits.

The Customs Service does not notify the importer of the arrival of the shipment. The carrier of the goods usually makes notification of arrival. Arrangements should be made to ensure that the importer or their agent is informed immediately of arrival so that the entry can be filed and delays in obtaining the goods avoided.

The Customs Service defines "entry" not merely as the arrival of goods at a port, but as the process of presenting documentation for clearing goods through Customs. Imported merchandise not entered through Customs in a timely manner (within 15 calendar days of arrival) is sent by Customs to a general order warehouse to be held as unclaimed. The importer is responsible for paying storage charges while unclaimed merchandise is held at the warehouse. If it remains unclaimed at the end of six months, the merchandise is sold at auction.

Some type of Customs entry must be made at the first port of arrival. Ordinarily entry is made there for consumption, for entry into a bonded warehouse, or for transportation in bond to another port where a consumption or warehouse entry will be made. If an importer is unable to be there to prepare and file the entry, commercial brokers, known as customs brokers and licensed by the Customs Service, may act as an agent for the importer. These brokers charge a fee for their services. A list of customs brokers may be obtained from the local Customs office or found in the yellow pages of the local telephone directory.

In the case of a single noncommercial shipment, a relative or other individual may act as the importer's agent for customs purposes. This person must know the facts pertaining to the shipment and must be authorized in writing to act for the importer.

The law prohibits Customs employees from performing these tasks for the importing public. However, they will advise and give information to importers about Customs requirements.

Source :http://www.citd.org/trade_info/sections.cfm?sid=17

IMPORTERS - IMPORTER LIST - IMPORTER DIRECTORY

2008-04-07T14:29:00.000+05:30

Monday, April 7, 2008

IMPORTERS - IMPORTER LIST - IMPORTER DIRECTORY

International Importer Directory
Includes An Importer List Of Over 150,000 Worldwide Importers

The International Importer Directory is a 9-volume business-to-business reference importer list numbering over 150,000 worldwide importers from 160 countries. You will find included in this comprehensive importer list:

* Asia importers - including Japan Importers - China Importers
* USA importers and Canadian importers
* Europe importers - including UK importers, German Importers, Italian Importers and French Importers
* South and Central American importers including Mexican Importers and Brazilian Importers
* African importers
* Middle Eastern importers.

EXPORTERS: This unique importer directory set has been in publication since 1979 and the entire database is updated annually. It was primarily compiled for exporters, international traders and manufacturing companies to help you develop new global sales on a regional basis. This trade directory set (or separate regions) will provide you with critical global trade information you will not find elsewhere.

The International Importer Directory is available as a set or may choose one or more regions that best suit your needs. The regional titles are as follows: European Importers - Middle Eastern Importers - North American Importers - South and Central American Importers - Africa Importers and Asia/Pacific Importers.

This directory set or separate regional directories are available both Printed in a 3-ring binder and on a CD-rom. Both versions have been formatted to help you easily locate the importers most targeted to your products and/or services.

Attempting to compile a list of worldwide importers for your products and/or services can be extremely laborious, time-consuming and quite often futile. This importers directory saves you from that futile task by providing you with listings of importers that have carefully been compiled by our publisher through their use of comprehensive questionnaires and very expensive annual mailing to each importer in their database. View Sample Trade Directory Pages

The data you receive on each Importer includes:

* Complete Name and Address
* Name of Primary Contact Person
* Telephone and Fax Numbers
* Detailed List of Up To Eight Products They Import
* Email Addresses (Approximately 12% have provided Email Addresses)
* Web Site (Approximately 5% of all listings)

Here is optional information that some importers also provide: year their business was established; their number of employees; and their bank reference. View Sample Importer Listings - Source: www.importexporthelp.com/dirimp.htm

Rising input costs weigh on producers, exporters

2008-04-03T19:11:00.000+05:30

VietNamNet Bridge – The volatility in prices of raw materials could be even more serious in the second quarter, warned Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Bui Xuan Khu, and he urged industry to take swift measure to rein in costs while ensuring quality products.

Khu made the statement at a meeting last week of a ministry working group with local authorities to devise solutions to ease the burdens on domestic manufacturers caused by raging materials prices, both domestically and internationally.

Nguyen Thu Uyen, director of the Garment Company No 2, based in the northern city of Hai Phong, said input costs have skyrocketed, with the costs of some imported goods soaring by 30%, along with fuel prices that have risen 3-5%.

Sao Vang Co Ltd deputy director Nguyen Dinh Long said higher oil prices had pushed up the costs of transportating a single container of goods by VND300-400,000 (US$19-25).

Meanwhile, it was nearly impossible for garment exporters to renegotiate prices with customers based on these new, higher costs, Uyen said.

Tran Xuan Bai, director of the Department of Industry in the northern province of Hai Duong, said some food products exporters in the north have been unable to purchase sufficient quantities of raw materials and have had to turn to suppliers in the south, further driving up costs and cutting profit margins on already-signed export contracts.

Reports from Hai Phong and the northern provinces of Hai Duong, Ha Tay, and Hung Yen suggest enterprises are being hit by higher costs on all fronts. Late last year, the Government raised the minimum wage, driving up the costs of employing workers who have contractual protection from being laid off. The costs of construction materials were also rising, slowing the progress of construction in industrial zones and negatively impacting business expansion plans of enterprises.

Year-on-year growth in industrial output in Hung Yen alone in the first quarter of this year remained at 23.7%, lower than the anticipated growth of 26%.

Khu urged local authorities at last week’s meeting to commit to supporting local enterprises and to ease administrative burdens on them.

In response, officials of Hai Duong Province pledged to set up a fund to finance enterprises as needed to help them guarantee stable business operations.

Khu also said his ministry has requested Electricity of Viet Nam (EVN) to ensure sufficient power for producers and that the Government was committed to developing infrastructure such as roads and water supplies, as well as telecommunications capacity.

Administrative procedures have been streamlined to ease costs for enterprises, but companies still complain of being regularly audited by authorities. Many businesses also felt confused and uncertain over recent and expected changes in tax policies, said Ngo Van Thong, a representative of the Hai Phong-based International Co Ltd.

High productions costs are passed directly through to consumers and are a major factor in Vietnam’s rampant inflation. The consumer price index in March rose at its highest pace over a two decades, hitting 19.39% year-on-year, according to preliminary statistics from the General Statistics Office.

(Source: Viet Nam News)

Pakistan to export cement, rice to Sri Lanka

2008-04-01T18:57:00.000+05:30

Colombo (PTI): Pakistan will supply cement and rice to Sri Lanka, even as the two countries have pledged to avail of the vast untapped potential for bilateral trade.

Sri Lankan government would import cement from Pakistan through the recently set up State Trading Co-operative Wholesale Company Ltd to counter the shortage allegedly created by errant traders concealing their stocks.

A spokesman of the Sri Lanka state owned company said the agreement is expected to be signed shortly with a company in Pakistan to import cement.

"The demand for cement has risen with the commencement of many massive infrastructure projects," he said.

The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), meanwhile, has agreed to export 500 tonnes of basmati rice to Sri Lanka to bridge its demand-supply gap.