The Indian government has announced a halt on sugar-based ethanol supplies for the upcoming 2026-27 season, impacting sugar stocks significantly. Shares of Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar plummeted over five percent during early trades. The newly introduced procurement regulations ban the usage of sugarcane juice and B-heavy molasses for ethanol production. With a strategic pivot towards grain-based ethanol, the government aims to ensure steady sugar availability amid production uncertainties.

Global freight costs surge 130% as Middle East tensions rattle shipping routes
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/global-freight-costs-surge-130-as-middle-east-tensions-continue-to-rattle-shipping-routes-report/articleshow/135045167.cms

Since February 2026, global container freight rates have surged, largely influenced by ongoing Middle Eastern unrest. In contrast, India's container trade remains robust, showing a remarkable 23% increase in September 2026. Exports to the US experienced a staggering 48% year-over-year rise. While major ports reported growth, non-major ports struggled, highlighting the contrasting landscape. Notably, shipping lines may be poised to return to the Suez Canal amid these changes.

Sold house, bought Rs 1.10 crore flat with wife; taxman rejects exemption for half the amount
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/man-sold-his-house-and-bought-a-rs-1-10-crore-flat-jointly-with-wife-income-tax-department-denies-rs-55-48-lakh-capital-gains-exemption-for-half-the-amount-but-itat-mumbai-gives-full-relief/articleshow/135044532.cms

A man sold his residential property and invested the proceeds in another flat in Mumbai. The replacement property was jointly registered in his and his wife's names, with the total investment of around Rs 1.10 crore. He claimed exemption on the capital gains under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act.

India-New Zealand FTA effective from Oct 20; targets double trade to $7bn by 2030
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/india-new-zealand-fta-to-take-effect-from-oct-20-target-to-double-trade-to-7bn-by-2030/articleshow/135047532.cms

The Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand will come into effect on October 20. This agreement allows India to export goods to New Zealand without tariffs, boosting several sectors. India aims to double bilateral trade with New Zealand to NZD 7 billion by 2030. New Zealand exported nearly NZ$2.03 billion worth of goods and services to India in 2025.

Russia ships 20 million barrels of oil to Asia via Arctic route amid shipping disruptions: Report
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/international-business/russia-ships-20-million-barrels-of-oil-to-asia-via-arctic-route-amid-shipping-disruptions-report/articleshow/135051089.cms

Russia has nearly shipped 20 million barrels of oil to Asia through the Northern Sea Route in 2025. Disruptions to traditional shipping routes have prompted traders to favor the Arctic route. Indian imports of Russian crude have fallen significantly as Chinese refiners increased their purchases. Gazprom Neft is planning to increase Arctic shipments by 35% this year compared to 2025.

India probes Pernod Ricard, Diageo over Scotch whisky imports under UK trade pact
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/india-probes-pernod-ricard-diageo-over-scotch-whisky-imports-under-uk-trade-pact/articleshow/135050775.cms

Indian tax authorities are examining whether Pernod Ricard and Diageo wrongly classified bulk Scotch whisky imports for lower tariffs. The investigation follows reduced import duties under the recent India-UK trade pact that came into effect on July 15. Tax inspectors visited Pernod Ricard’s headquarters and searched Diageo’s offices regarding these classifications. Both companies claim they are cooperating fully with the authorities during the investigation.

India shelves coal import plan as high global prices, weak rupee raise costs
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/india-shelves-coal-import-plan-as-high-global-prices-weak-rupee-raise-costs/articleshow/135051117.cms

India has decided not to mandate coal imports for power plants due to high international prices and a weaker rupee. Coal stockpiles have reached critically low levels at many power stations, prompting concerns about electricity shortages in the country. Policymakers are focusing on boosting domestic coal production and improving transportation to mitigate the situation.

Trade margins on 137 cancer drugs capped, but will bills get lower?
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/trade-margins-on-137-cancer-drugs-capped-but-will-bills-get-lower/articleshow/135055741.cms