Government monitors West Asia tensions via 'inter-ministerial group' to assess trade impact

NEW DELHI: Amid the escalating tensions in the West Asia region, the Indian govt has set up an inter-ministerial group that's monitoring the situation particulary to assess any hurdles in India's trade and shipping."We have set up an inter-ministerial group that meets on a daily basis and is closely monitoring the developments in West Asia to assess any vulnerabilities -- in our shipping, logistics, export or even critical imports, and we will coordinate with inter-ministerial actions," said the union commerce minister Piyush Goyal, while addressing a post-Budget webinar, as quoted by PTI.He gave further details on the operations of the 'group' on X, saying, "the 'Inter-Ministerial Group (IMG) for Supply Chain Resilience' has been created, comprising members from Department of Financial Services, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Shipping, Ports & Waterways, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs, to facilitate effective coordination, monitoring and follow-up.

"Further assuring stability he added, "Government under PM Narendra Modi ji's leadership remains firmly committed to enabling a stable and responsive trade environment for our traders and exporters, safeguarding their interests and ensuring seamless operations."

Goyal also gave out contact information: 📧 Helpline Contact: [email protected]☎️ DGFT HelpDesk Number: 1800-572-1550, 1800-111-550The union minister also listed out few measures taken "to facilitate trade operations"He revealed three mesaures as:

This comes as exporters reportedly expressed concerns that the escalating West Asian tension after joint attacks by the US and Israel on Iran may impact India's trade.