Commerce

India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, has indicated that relations between New Delhi and Beijing are gradually moving toward normalization, a development that carries significant geopolitical and economic implications. Speaking at a recent interaction, Goyal emphasized the importance of constructive engagement between the two Asian powers, noting that bilateral trade continues to expand despite earlier disruptions.

Logistics leader DTDC has launched ‘Raftaar’, a specialized delivery service designed to meet the growing demand for rapid commerce in India. The initiative is aimed at providing ultra-fast, reliable, and technology-enabled deliveries to businesses and consumers, capitalizing on the surge in e-commerce and quick-commerce models. By leveraging its nationwide network, digital platforms, and advanced tracking systems, DTDC seeks to bridge the gap between traditional logistics and modern-day instant delivery needs.

India’s quick commerce sector is primed for a dramatic expansion, with market value anticipated to reach nearly Rs. 2 lakh crore by fiscal year 2028. This surge reflects a compounded annual growth rate of approximately 45%, propelled by changing urban lifestyles, rising disposable incomes, and a burgeoning appetite for convenience-driven shopping. As consumers increasingly favor delivery windows under 30 minutes, quick commerce platforms are reimagining inventory management, last-mile logistics, and hyperlocal supply chains.

The Indian government has appointed Rajesh Agarwal, a 1994-batch IAS officer, as the next Commerce Secretary, following the retirement of Sunil Barthwal in September 2025. Agarwal, who currently serves as the additional secretary in the Department of Commerce, brings a wealth of experience, including his role as the chief negotiator for India’s bilateral trade agreement with the U.S. He will assume leadership at a pivotal time, with global trade facing challenges due to escalating tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and a growing trade deficit with China.