Venkatachalam Shunmugam’s Post

🌍🌶️🔍 Navigating Global #Food #Safety #Standards: The Case of Ethylene Oxide in #Indian #Spices 🌶️🔍🌍 🤔 Did you know that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) sets a highly rigorous limit of quantification (LOQ) for ethylene oxide at just 0.01 mg/kg? This is much stricter than the Codex Alimentarius' general maximum residue limit (GMRL) of 0.1 ppm when specific MRLs aren't established. 📏🌏 👩🔬 Ethylene oxide is used for sterilizing food products, but it's a double-edged sword due to its potential health risks, including #carcinogenic properties. 🚫🧪 🇮🇳🌐 While India's stricter LOQ showcases a commitment to safety, it also highlights the complexities in global food trade—differences in standards can lead to trade barriers and necessitate careful navigation of international market requirements. 📊📈 🌟 What Should Indian Policymakers and the #SpicesBoard Do? Educate and Innovate: Help spice manufacturers adopt alternative cost-effective sterilization technologies that meet global safety norms without using ethylene oxide. 🎓🔬 Harmonize #Regulations: Work towards aligning Indian #standards more closely with international standards like those of the #CodexAlimentarius to prevent trade disruptions. 🤝📜 #Transparent #Communication: Ensure that the #spice #industry and international partners are clear about India’s standards to maintain trust and smooth market access. 🗣️✨ Spices Board's Proactive Role: The Spices Board should step up its efforts to ensure that the quality of exported spices meets the required standards of various nations. This involves conducting rigorous quality checks and ensuring compliance with international safety standards to uphold the reputation of Indian spices globally. 🌍🔎 🔎 By focusing on these strategies, India can enhance its reputation as a top spice exporter, ensure public health safety, and maintain robust access to global markets. Let's spice up our approach to food safety and trade! 🌍🌶️🚀. Afterall, India exports more than about INR 25,000 Cores worth of spices #FoodSafety #GlobalTrade #Spices #EthyleneOxide #PublicHealth #india #exports #foodstandards #IndianEconomy #TradePolicy #InnovationInFoodSafety #SpicesBoard https://lnkd.in/dq6q_SR4

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A Response to Swaminathan Anklesaria Iyer on #RBI #RateCuts: A Delicate Balance Amid Global and Domestic Pressures Swaminathan Anklesaria Iyer's recent proposal on The Economic Times for the RBI to cut #rates and set a precedent for #Asian #centralbanks warrants a thoughtful analysis, especially in light of the recent developments in the #Indonesian central bank's monetary policy. Takeaways from Central Bank of Indonesia surprise Indonesia's surprise #ratehike highlights a crucial concern shared across Asian central banks: strengthening the #USdollar and its #inflationarypressures due to imported #goods - Remember India imports 87 percent of its #oil requirements from abroad. This situation is further complicated by volatile geopolitical scenarios, threatening to spike #crudeoil prices and, consequently, #inflation. Given these global headwinds, any premature easing of rates could exacerbate #currency #weakness, leading to #higher #inflation and diminishing the #effectiveness of domestic #monetarypolicy. For India, the RBI's decision matrix is even more complex. With the #INR witnessing #depreciation pressures against a robust #USD, the central bank faces a significant challenge in managing inflationary trends without stifling economic growth. The strong dollar, driven by a hawkish #FederalReserve, doesn't just influence import costs (notably crude oil, a critical import for India); it also affects #capitalflows and the #investment climate at this point of supercharges growth prospects. Reducing #rates could theoretically spur domestic economic activity by making #borrowing cheaper. However, doing so ahead of the Fed might lead to increased #capital #outflows, as global #investors seek higher returns in dollar-denominated assets, further pressuring the #rupee. Additionally, a rate cut could undermine the rupee's value at a time when #currency #stability is paramount to prevent #inflation from spiraling, especially if #oil #prices surge. Economically, the RBI might find itself constrained. While off its peak, India's inflation still hovers around the upper tolerance limit of the RBI's target. The core inflation remains sticky, suggesting underlying price pressures that a rate cut could aggravate. Of course, monsoons are estimated to be far better (until proven). Remember the recent #JPY depreciation due to the hawkish stance of #Fed. While leading rate cuts are appealing for stimulating economic growth, the current global financial landscape and domestic inflation dynamics make such a strategy risky for the RBI. It appears more prudent for the RBI to maintain a cautious stance, aligning its #monetarypolicy more closely with global trends, particularly the actions of the #Fed, to safeguard against #externalshocks and maintain financial stability. Given the current situation, the narrative below from Indonesia serves as a timely reminder of the delicate balance required in monetary policy. What do you think?

#Copper #BullMarket: Charging Forward, But Can it Stay the Course? Copper bulls are on the loose! The #price of copper is soaring, and that BHP just made a huge bid for Anglo American seems to authenticate the rooting of bull in the markets. This #metal is essential for everything from ️ construction to #electricvehicles, and with a #greenenergy boom on the horizon, the future should be bright. But for the miners, hold on to your hard hats! This bull market might not be a smooth ride. Here's what one should know: The Bulls Have a Case: #China's Back in Business: 🇨🇳 After a slowdown, China's #manufacturing is roaring back to life, and their demand for copper might be booming! Also, readers of this news should know that China is pushing #EVs and #Consumerdurables the hard way, subsidizing their prices. This is great news for #copper miners. Question is this a sustainable trend? Going #Green: The world is shifting towards #renewableenergy, and guess what? Lots of #copper goes into #solarpanels and #windturbines! This is a long-term tailwind for copper. Supply Squeeze? Mine production is facing challenges, and a major copper mine in Panama is currently closed. This could limit supply to some extent. With the rise in prices, miners may get deeper as well to supply more. But Don't Get Too Comfortable: #China's a Wild Card: 🇨🇳 While China's #demand is strong now, their property market is struggling. If that weakens further, it could dampen their #copper appetite. Too Much of a Good Thing? We might have a glut of ☀️ solar panels and electric vehicles coming online. If demand can't keep up, copper prices could be victims too. #Panama #Mine Surprise? 🇵🇦 If the closed mine in Panama reopens unexpectedly, it could flood the market with copper and push prices down too. The Bottom Line: Future looks bright, but there are some bumps in the road ahead. Better keep an eye on China's economy, potential oversupply, and the situation in Panama. Stay informed, else this bull market could keep you in the copper! #CopperMarkets #property #globalgrowth #Commodities #RenewableEnergy #China #Investment #infrastructure #powertansmission #electricals #generators

Is America's #EconomicBoom Built to Last? The headlines of dailies might scream "#US #Economy No. 1," but scratch beneath the surface; you'll find a more complex story. The Good News: The US economy is the world's largest, accounting for a whopping 26.3% of global #GDP! This is in part to factors like: #Innovation: A strong tech sector and focus on #AI/ #ML/ #Robotics/ #Automation and #innovations in these sectors are keeping the US at the forefront. Favorable Terms of Trade: Rising prices for US exports (like natural gas) are boosting the economy. Wage #Growth (somewhat): #US #wages haven't declined as much as in other developed economies. The Worrisome Signs: Soaring #Deficits: Government spending continues to climb, fueled by factors like the stimulus #package and #studentloan forgiveness. While #deficits can be helpful in #recessions, they can cause problems in the long run. #Inflation: Though down from its peak, #inflation remains above the #FederalReserve's target. This is partly due to high government spending. A Strong #USDollar: The US dollar's rise can be a double-edged sword. While it makes imports cheaper, it can also hurt American exports and lead to trade tensions with other countries. History Repeats Itself? The article points out historical parallels where a strong US dollar and high deficits led to #tradewars as it is happening with #China. The Road Ahead: The #US may be the world's economic leader, but its reign might not be smooth sailing. Finding a balance between stimulating the #economy and controlling deficits will be key. Is the US economy on solid ground, or are there storm clouds on the horizon? Is a repeat of past trade wars a possibility? #USEconomy #Geopolitics #Trade #Innovation

The #EV #Battery Race: A Charged-Up Look at Global Dominance and the Road Ahead ⚡️ The #electricvehicle (EV) revolution is in full swing, but who's under the hood powering this transformation? Buckle up, because it's a race dominated by #Asian battery manufacturers, with #China leading the charge! 🇨🇳 This infographic reveals the top players in the EV battery game for 2023: China's Reign: Chinese companies CATL and BYD are the top two, supplying batteries to Tesla and Toyota Motor Corporation. These two boast a combined 50% share of the #market. Shifting Gears: Once a frontrunner, Panasonic from Japan has slipped to fourth place. Tesla's decision to diversify its battery suppliers - changing the game? 🇯🇵 Global Market on the Rise: Despite challenges like range anxiety and limited #charginginfra, the #EV #battery #market is projected to nearly double in size by 2029! Why is #China Winning? Government Support: China heavily invests in battery technology research and development. Are our IITs and auto companies doing enough to keep India ahead in the race for the best #EV battery? Strong Supply Chain:  Making production efficient and cost-effective. ⛓️ The Hybrid Approach While pure EVs gain traction, hybrid vehicles remain popular due to range anxiety concerns. This highlights the need for further development in battery technology to extend range ➡️ and improve charging infra. Concentration in the EV battery market has geopolitical implications. The Future of EV Batteries Innovation holds the key! Advancements in areas like solid-state batteries promise faster charging times⏱️➡️⚡️ and longer ranges. This will be crucial for widespread EV adoption. Don't forget India! 🇮🇳 India, too, has ambitious plans for the EV sector. The development of a strong domestic battery supply chain will be essential for India to rev up its EV ambitions (domestic and exports). Here's what India should do: India is already taking some steps: Subsidies and tax breaks to attract battery manufacturers and encourage domestic production. Skilling Up to create a skilled workforce for the EV battery industry. India prioritizes building a sustainable battery supply chain by promoting ethical sourcing and recycling practices. ♻️ India needs to: Build a strong supply chain for battery manufacturers and have access to critical minerals in #batterytechnology. Tax breaks for battery manufacturers - connect with critical mineral suppliers in #Africa, #SouthAmerica, #Indonesia and #Australia. Focus on battery tech development in both the private and public sectors - through incentives. #EVBattery #BatteryTechnology #China #GreenEnergy #Sustainability #India Visual Capitalist - read here.. https://lnkd.in/dPeZGYSC #batteries #electricvehicles #ev #copper #lithium #nickel #batterytechnology #batterymetals #cleanenergy #greenenergy #greentransition

2023: A Tale of Two Commodities: Gold and Crude Oil The news for commodities in 2023 was a mixed bag. While some shone brighter than a disco ball at a party 🪩 (looking at you, Gold!), others went belly up like a beached whale - Lithium, a top performer post-2020 lockdown. #Gold Takes the Gold! Gold was the clear champion in #2023, surging over 13%; pulled by two key developments: Investor demand for safe-haven #assets: As the possibility of #interestrate cuts loomed, investors flocked to gold, a classic hedge against #inflation. A weaker #USdollar: A falling dollar makes gold cheaper for those other than USD-accessible #investors, boosting #demand even further. #CrudeOil's Rough Ride ️ On the other hand, crude oil #prices took a tumble ⬇️, sinking nearly 11%. This decline can be attributed to a few key reasons: Rising US #oil production: The US cranked up production to a record high, leading to a glut of oil in the market. Slower global demand: As interest rates rose ⬆️, global economic growth slowed, dampening demand for oil. Thanks to the easing of grain logistics and better production, grain prices were down in 2023. What's in Store for 2024? Looking ahead, here are some key trends to watch out: Potential #ratecuts: If the #FederalReserve eases interest rates, it could be a boon for all commodities across the board. #Geopoliticaltensions: Rising tensions in the Middle East could disrupt oil supplies ⛽ and nations would have to be hedged out on their energy supplies. With its 87 percent consumption dependent on imports, it is of significant importance that the #India #stakeholders remain hedged. Green energy transition: While commodities like #copper and #lithium are crucial for #cleanenergy, the present supply gluts would be a boon if the green energy transition is at full velocity. #Commodities #Gold #Oil #Investment #MarketTrends

The Gods Must Be Chocolaty 🍫 : #Kerala's #Cocoa Farmers Finally Get Their Due! 🇬🇭🇮🇳 Move over #earthquakes and #tsunamis; there's a different kind of tremor shaking things up in the world of chocolate eaters - a cocoa BOOM! While tremors in #Ghana and #IvoryCoast sent shivers down spines (and cocoa prices up!), #Kerala's cocoa farmers are also finally getting a taste of the good prices and better life, some of which they should be ploughing back into their #plantation business to increase their productivity. For years, these folks have been battling adverse #weather and a nasty case of "sad cocoa root disease" (a casual terminology, not a pathological name). Meanwhile, their counterparts in #Africa were raking in the big bucks. But the tables have turned! With global cocoa prices hitting record highs, #Kerala's cocoa is finally fetching a pretty penny - ₹30,000 a quintal, to be exact (that's a lot of rupees for that price was a sixth not too long ago). So, the big question is: Should #India be diving headfirst into this #cocoa craze? Let's analyze this with a bar of dark chocolate in each hand to feed our thinking process (research purposes, of course): Pros: #High #Prices = #Happy #Farmers: A steady stream of good #income can improve lives and boost #rural #communities. Win-Win for all! "#MakeinIndia" (of course should not only be in manufacturing but also in Agri/Hort sector) Gets Sweeter: #India can potentially become a bigger player in the global #cocoa #market, reducing dependence on #imports. Atmanirbhar Bharat with a dash of cocoa! Any views? 🇮🇳 Cons: Is This a Flash in the Pan?: High prices are great, but history says they do not last longer. They are either gobbled up by increasing #input #costs or that of the glut of #supplies. #India needs to invest in research and development to ensure #sustainable #cocoa production - given that chocolaters are ready shell out (Of course, with their higher propensity to spend to meet the demands of their sweet tooth). What may be #Sweet for Some, maybe #Bitter for Others: Increased cocoa production might lead to #deforestation for more farmland. #Sustainability is the key! And, finally: 🇮🇳 This #cocoa #boom is a #golden #opportunity for #India, but with a big big asterisk. ✳ Sustainable practices and long-term vision are crucial to turn this temporary win into a permanent and chocolatey success story. Should India seize the #cocoa #moment? Look forward to hearing from you! Read the Interesting Story LiveMint https://lnkd.in/dA5Gf3BP #chocholat #cocoafutures #swisschocolates #Cocoa #Kerala #Agriculture #SustainableFarming

From Backrub to Bite: The Epic #Logo Sagas of #BigTech Imagine Google as a wide-eyed college freshman named Backrub - awkward but brimming with potential. Fast forward to today's sleek, sophisticated logo, and it's a tech giant revolutionizing the world. This is the fascinating story of tech logos, constantly evolving alongside the companies they represent. Take a trip down memory lane with us: #Google: Remember the playful, multicolored logo from the early days? A far cry from the streamlined design we know today. #Microsoft: Who knew the tech titan started as Traf-O-Data, a company counting cars, not clicks? Their logo transformation reflects that journey, culminating in the iconic $Windows symbol. #Samsung: Believe it or not, Samsung began as a humble grocery store! Their logo shed its grocery roots for the sleek blue emblem we know today. #Apple: The first Apple logo featured Isaac Newton himself contemplating a falling apple! Thankfully, Steve Jobs steered the company towards the now-famous bitten apple. These logo changes aren't just cosmetic tweaks. They represent the growth, innovation, and ambition that define the evolution of the businesses of these tech titans. Visual Capitalist https://lnkd.in/deGy_b8Z #Tech #LogoDesign #BrandEvolution

🌏🛢️ Why Not #India's ONGC Videsh Ltd for Galp's Stake Sale in #Namibia? 🛢️🌏 As we hear the news that Galp Energia is seeking suitors to sell half of its stake in the significant #oil #discovery at #Namibia's Mopane field, it begs the question: Is this the opportunity #ONGCVidesh has been waiting for? 🤔💼 Why It Matters: India's heavy reliance on #oil #imports is well-known, with imports being a substantial part of our total oil #consumption. In these dynamic times, securing diverse and reliable oil supplies is crucial for our #energysecurity. 🌏⚖️ #Namibia's #Democratic #Stability: Namibia shines as a stable, democratic nation in Southern Africa, making it an attractive and safe investment destination. 🕊️🏛️ This could be a strategic move for India to secure its #energy needs while investing in a region known for its governance and stability. 🛡️🌐 Strategic Opportunity: With #Galp ready to pass the baton in managing this promising project, ONGC Videsh could leverage its extensive experience in international #oilexploration to capitalize on this opportunity. 📈🤝 The Mopane field's significant reserves suggest a potentially lucrative investment that could bolster our #energy #strategy and #economic footprint globally. 💰🌍 Is this the strategic investment move ONGC Videsh should consider to bolster India’s energy security? What do you say? ⬇️ Read the Story here: https://lnkd.in/dtTEcfkh #EnergySecurity #ONGCVidesh #OilAndGas #SustainableInvesting #NamibiaOil #StrategicInvestment #crudeoil #oilfield #oilproduction #oilimports