Latest news with #AnujSethi
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Crude awakening: Companies wait & watch
This is an AI-generated image, used for representational purposes only. MUMBAI: From packaged goods makers to retailers and paint companies, firms are keeping a close tab on crude oil prices, which have been volatile since the start of the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. Higher crude oil prices tend to inflate input costs for companies-crude-linked derivatives, for instance, are used in the packaging of FMCG products across categories such as food and beverages and personal care, while certain segments like detergents and dishwashing liquids are heavily dependent on Linear Alkyl Benzene (a crude derivative) as a key raw material. Beauty products like lotions, creams, and lip balms also use crude derivatives like petroleum jelly, said Anuj Sethi, senior director at Crisil Ratings. The development comes at a time when broader consumption had started seeing some green shoots after several sluggish quarters, helped by tax sops, easing food inflation, and rate cuts. Further escalation of the conflict in West Asia could impact demand recovery in the near term. For companies, the challenge will be on two fronts- protecting margins if input costs spike and getting consumers to spend more; high oil prices typically impact overall household spending, nudging consumers to cut budgets on their discretionary purchases. "Crude plays a major role in two cost centres- freight and packaging. This can impact the bottom line of companies. We are monitoring the situation and hope things do not escalate," Mayank Shah, vice-president at Parle Products, told TOI, not ruling out risk to demand recovery in the short term. Geopolitical tensions in West Asia could pose short-term headwinds by driving up crude oil prices. "This may drive up prices of the overall purchase basket and pinch consumers," said Krishna Khatwani, head of sales (India) at Godrej Consumer Products. Oil prices settled 7% higher on Friday, rising more than 13% during the session to their highest levels since Jan. On Monday, prices edged down after opening higher as the attacks so far didn't hit critical export infrastructure, international media reported. But oil markets remain tense, and the future trajectory is uncertain. "Israel-Iran tensions and Brent Crude climbing into the high $70s per barrel pose cost pressures. If sustained, these may translate into pricing adjustments for some businesses and temper consumer sentiment," said Tarun Arora, CEO at Zydus Wellness. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
NDTV
6 days ago
- Automotive
- NDTV
Rare Earth Magnets Shortage To Slow Down India's EV Ride: Crisil
New Delhi: Rare earth magnets, low in cost but critical in function, could emerge as a key supply-side risk for India's automotive sector if China's export restrictions and delays in shipment clearances persist, according to a report by Crisil Ratings. The rating agency said this week that a disruption lasting more than a month can already impact electric vehicle (EV) launches, affect production, and weigh on the sector's growth momentum. Rare earth magnets are integral to permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) used in EVs for their high torque, energy efficiency and compact size. Hybrids also depend on them for efficient propulsion. The use of rare earth magnets in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is largely limited to electric power steering and other motorised systems. In April 2025, China - the world's dominant exporter of rare earth magnets - imposed export restrictions on seven rare earth elements and finished magnets, mandating export licences. The revised framework demands detailed end-use disclosures and client declarations, including confirmation that the products will not be used in defence or re-exported to the US. "With the clearance process taking at least 45 days, this added scrutiny has significantly delayed approvals. And the growing backlog has further slowed clearances, tightening global supply chains," Crisil said. India, which sourced over 80 per cent of its 540 tonne magnet imports from China last fiscal, has started to feel the impact, Crisil asserted. "By end-May 2025, nearly 30 import requests from Indian companies were endorsed by the Indian government, but none have yet been approved by the Chinese authorities, and no shipments have arrived," Crisil claimed. Anuj Sethi, Senior Director, Crisil Ratings, "The supply squeeze comes just as the auto sector is preparing for aggressive EV rollouts. Over a dozen new electric models are planned for launch, most built on PMSM platforms. While most automakers currently have 4-6 weeks of inventory, prolonged delays could start affecting vehicle production, with EV models facing deferrals or rescheduling from July 2025. A broader impact on two-wheelers (2W) and ICE PVs may follow if the supply bottlenecks persist for an extended period." In fiscal 2025-26, domestic passenger volumes are expected to grow 2-4 per cent, while electric passenger vehicles could rise 35-40 per cent, albeit on a low base. Electric 2Ws could grow 27 per cent, outpacing overall 2W growth of 8-10 per cent. However, Crisil notes that sustained supply tightness could soften this momentum, especially in the EV segment. Recognising the rare earth supply risk, the government and automakers are taking action on two fronts. In the short term, the focus is on building strategic inventories, tapping alternative suppliers and accelerating domestic assembly under Production Linked Incentive schemes. For the long term, reducing import dependency will hinge on fast-tracking rare earth exploration, building local production capacity and investing in recycling infrastructure. Meanwhile, India on Thursday said it is in touch with the Chinese side, seeking predictability in the supply of rare earth metals -- which had been put under the export controls regime by the Xi administration. "We are in touch with the Chinese side, both here in Delhi as also in Beijing to bring predictability in supply chain for trade, consistent with international practices," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters in the weekly briefing. The MEA spokesperson was asked about India's engagement with China on rare earth, given that it is to an extent impacting the auto industry, among others in India. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal described China's rare earth export restrictions as a global "wake-up call" recently, emphasising that India is actively building alternative supply chains while positioning itself as a trusted partner for international businesses seeking to reduce their dependence on Chinese suppliers. Speaking to reporters during his official visit to Switzerland, where he met with Swiss government officials and business leaders, Goyal acknowledged that China's export curbs will create short-term challenges for India's automotive and white goods sectors. China's overwhelming control of global rare earth processing - commanding over 90 per cent of the world's magnet production capacity - has created significant vulnerabilities for industries worldwide. These materials are critical across multiple sectors, including automobiles, home appliances, and clean energy systems. Beyond China, there are only a few alternative suppliers. The new Chinese restrictions, effective from April 4, require special export licenses for certain specific rare earth elements and their related magnetic products. Separately, India and Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and, Uzbekistan) have recently expressed interest in joint exploration of rare earth and critical minerals at the recently held India-Central Asia Dialogue here in the national capital.
India Gazette
6 days ago
- Automotive
- India Gazette
Shortage of rare earth magnets can decelerate India's automotive ride, Crisil says
New Delhi [India], June 15 (ANI): Rare earth magnets, low in cost but critical in function, could emerge as a key supply-side risk for India's automotive sector if China's export restrictions and delays in shipment clearances persist, according to a report by Crisil Ratings. The rating agency said this week that a disruption lasting more than a month can already impact electric vehicle (EV) launches, affect production, and weigh on the sector's growth momentum. Rare earth magnets are integral to permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) used in EVs for their high torque, energy efficiency and compact size. Hybrids also depend on them for efficient propulsion. The use of rare earth magnets in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is largely limited to electric power steering and other motorised systems. In April 2025, China - the world's dominant exporter of rare earth magnets - imposed export restrictions on seven rare earth elements and finished magnets, mandating export licences. The revised framework demands detailed end-use disclosures and client declarations, including confirmation that the products will not be used in defence or re-exported to the US. 'With the clearance process taking at least 45 days, this added scrutiny has significantly delayed approvals. And the growing backlog has further slowed clearances, tightening global supply chains,' Crisil said. India, which sourced over 80 per cent of its 540 tonne magnet imports from China last fiscal, has started to feel the impact, Crisil asserted. 'By end-May 2025, nearly 30 import requests from Indian companies were endorsed by the Indian government, but none have yet been approved by the Chinese authorities, and no shipments have arrived,' Crisil claimed. Anuj Sethi, Senior Director, Crisil Ratings, 'The supply squeeze comes just as the auto sector is preparing for aggressive EV rollouts. Over a dozen new electric models are planned for launch, most built on PMSM platforms. While most automakers currently have 4-6 weeks of inventory, prolonged delays could start affecting vehicle production, with EV models facing deferrals or rescheduling from July 2025. A broader impact on two-wheelers (2W) and ICE PVs may follow if the supply bottlenecks persist for an extended period.' In fiscal 2025-26, domestic passenger volumes are expected to grow 2-4 per cent, while electric passenger vehicles could rise 35-40 per cent, albeit on a low base. Electric 2Ws could grow 27 per cent, outpacing overall 2W growth of 8-10 per cent. However, Crisil notes that sustained supply tightness could soften this momentum, especially in the EV segment. Recognising the rare earth supply risk, the government and automakers are taking action on two fronts. In the short term, the focus is on building strategic inventories, tapping alternative suppliers and accelerating domestic assembly under Production Linked Incentive schemes. For the long term, reducing import dependency will hinge on fast-tracking rare earth exploration, building local production capacity and investing in recycling infrastructure. Meanwhile, India on Thursday said it is in touch with the Chinese side, seeking predictability in the supply of rare earth metals -- which had been put under the export controls regime by the Xi administration. 'We are in touch with the Chinese side, both here in Delhi as also in Beijing to bring predictability in supply chain for trade, consistent with international practices,' Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters in the weekly briefing. The MEA spokesperson was asked about India's engagement with China on rare earth, given that it is to an extent impacting the auto industry, among others in India. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal described China's rare earth export restrictions as a global 'wake-up call' recently, emphasising that India is actively building alternative supply chains while positioning itself as a trusted partner for international businesses seeking to reduce their dependence on Chinese suppliers. Speaking to reporters during his official visit to Switzerland, where he met with Swiss government officials and business leaders, Goyal acknowledged that China's export curbs will create short-term challenges for India's automotive and white goods sectors. China's overwhelming control of global rare earth processing - commanding over 90 per cent of the world's magnet production capacity - has created significant vulnerabilities for industries worldwide. These materials are critical across multiple sectors, including automobiles, home appliances, and clean energy systems. Beyond China, there are only a few alternative suppliers. The new Chinese restrictions, effective from April 4, require special export licenses for certain specific rare earth elements and their related magnetic products. Separately, India and Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and, Uzbekistan) have recently expressed interest in joint exploration of rare earth and critical minerals at the recently held India-Central Asia Dialogue here in the national capital. (ANI)
Time of India
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Indian EVs at risk! Delay in Beijing's rare earth magnets can decelerate auto sector growth; China tightens export rules
India's car industry could be in trouble as China's stricter control over rare earth magnet exports and shipment clearances delays may slow down electric vehicle production, Crisil Ratings said. The rating agency said that a disruption of even over a month can affect EV launches, production and push back the sector's growth trajectory. Rare earth magnets Rare earth magnets are low cost but crucial to permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) used in EVs and hybrids for their high torque and energy efficiency. In internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, rare earth magnets are primarily used in electric power steering systems and select other motorised components. China's restriction on export The alarm stems from Beijing's recent export restrictions, imposed in April 2025, on seven rare earth elements and finished magnets. The move, which mandates detailed end-use declarations and bans defence-linked or US-bound re-exports, has resulted in delayed clearances and growing shipment backlogs. 'With the clearance process taking at least 45 days, this added scrutiny has significantly delayed approvals. And the growing backlog has further slowed clearances, tightening global supply chains,' the report said, cited by ANI. India, which relied on China for over 80% of its 540-tonne magnet imports in the last fiscal, has began to feel the squeeze. Crisil revealed that by the end of May, around 30 import requests from Indian companies had received clearance from New Delhi — yet none had been approved by Chinese authorities, and no shipments had landed. 'The supply squeeze comes just as the auto sector is preparing for aggressive EV rollouts,' said Anuj Sethi, senior director at Crisil Ratings. 'Over a dozen new electric models are planned for launch, most built on PMSM platforms. While most automakers currently have 4-6 weeks of inventory, prolonged delays could start affecting vehicle production, with EV models facing deferrals or rescheduling from July 2025. A broader impact on two-wheelers (2W) and ICE PVs may follow if the supply bottlenecks persist for an extended period.' Passenger vehicle volumes are forecast to grow 2–4% in FY26, but EVs, starting from a lower base, are expected to rise 35–40%. Electric two-wheelers could expand 27%, outpacing the wider two-wheeler segment's 8–10% growth. Crisil warned that these projections could soften if supply constraints worsen. How is India dealing with Bejing's blow? The Indian government and automakers are now working on a twin-pronged strategy, in the short term, building strategic inventories, tapping alternative suppliers and stepping up domestic assembly under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. In the long run, the focus is on reducing import dependency by accelerating rare earth exploration, creating local processing capabilities and investing in recycling. In the diplomatic arena, India has opened direct lines of communication with Beijing to stabilise supply flows. 'We are in touch with the Chinese side, both here in Delhi as also in Beijing to bring predictability in supply chain for trade, consistent with international practices' said ministry of external affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing. Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal, meanwhile, described China's export restrictions as a 'wake-up call' for the world. Speaking during his visit to Switzerland, Goyal said India was actively working to develop alternate supply chains and positioning itself as a credible partner for global businesses looking to reduce dependence on China. China's dominance in rare earth processing, controlling over 90% of the global magnet output, has left industries worldwide vulnerable. These magnets are not only vital for EVs but also used across sectors such as home appliances and renewable energy. Efforts are also being made to diversify sources. At the recent India-Central Asia Dialogue in New Delhi, India and five Central Asian nations (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) expressed interest in jointly exploring rare earths and critical minerals, potentially offering a longer-term buffer against global supply shocks. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Time of India
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Shortage of rare earth magnets can decelerate India's automotive ride, Crisil says
New Delhi: Rare earth magnets , low in cost but critical in function, could emerge as a key supply-side risk for India's automotive sector if China's export restrictions and delays in shipment clearances persist, according to a report by Crisil Ratings . The rating agency said this week that a disruption lasting more than a month can already impact electric vehicle (EV) launches, affect production, and weigh on the sector's growth momentum. Rare earth magnets are integral to permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) used in EVs for their high torque, energy efficiency and compact size. Hybrids also depend on them for efficient propulsion. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Warum Tausende mit Schlafapnoe Kissen wechseln Derila Undo The use of rare earth magnets in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is largely limited to electric power steering and other motorised systems. In April 2025, China - the world's dominant exporter of rare earth magnets - imposed export restrictions on seven rare earth elements and finished magnets, mandating export licences. Live Events The revised framework demands detailed end-use disclosures and client declarations, including confirmation that the products will not be used in defence or re-exported to the US. "With the clearance process taking at least 45 days, this added scrutiny has significantly delayed approvals. And the growing backlog has further slowed clearances, tightening global supply chains," Crisil said. India, which sourced over 80 per cent of its 540 tonne magnet imports from China last fiscal, has started to feel the impact, Crisil asserted. "By end-May 2025, nearly 30 import requests from Indian companies were endorsed by the Indian government, but none have yet been approved by the Chinese authorities, and no shipments have arrived," Crisil claimed. Anuj Sethi, Senior Director, Crisil Ratings, "The supply squeeze comes just as the auto sector is preparing for aggressive EV rollouts. Over a dozen new electric models are planned for launch, most built on PMSM platforms. While most automakers currently have 4-6 weeks of inventory, prolonged delays could start affecting vehicle production, with EV models facing deferrals or rescheduling from July 2025. A broader impact on two-wheelers (2W) and ICE PVs may follow if the supply bottlenecks persist for an extended period." In fiscal 2025-26, domestic passenger volumes are expected to grow 2-4 per cent, while electric passenger vehicles could rise 35-40 per cent, albeit on a low base. Electric 2Ws could grow 27 per cent, outpacing overall 2W growth of 8-10 per cent. However, Crisil notes that sustained supply tightness could soften this momentum, especially in the EV segment. Recognising the rare earth supply risk, the government and automakers are taking action on two fronts. In the short term, the focus is on building strategic inventories, tapping alternative suppliers and accelerating domestic assembly under Production Linked Incentive schemes. For the long term, reducing import dependency will hinge on fast-tracking rare earth exploration, building local production capacity and investing in recycling infrastructure. Meanwhile, India on Thursday said it is in touch with the Chinese side, seeking predictability in the supply of rare earth metals -- which had been put under the export controls regime by the Xi administration. "We are in touch with the Chinese side, both here in Delhi as also in Beijing to bring predictability in supply chain for trade, consistent with international practices," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters in the weekly briefing. The MEA spokesperson was asked about India's engagement with China on rare earth, given that it is to an extent impacting the auto industry, among others in India. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal described China's rare earth export restrictions as a global "wake-up call" recently, emphasising that India is actively building alternative supply chains while positioning itself as a trusted partner for international businesses seeking to reduce their dependence on Chinese suppliers. Speaking to reporters during his official visit to Switzerland, where he met with Swiss government officials and business leaders, Goyal acknowledged that China's export curbs will create short-term challenges for India's automotive and white goods sectors. China's overwhelming control of global rare earth processing - commanding over 90 per cent of the world's magnet production capacity - has created significant vulnerabilities for industries worldwide. These materials are critical across multiple sectors, including automobiles, home appliances, and clean energy systems. Beyond China, there are only a few alternative suppliers. The new Chinese restrictions, effective from April 4, require special export licenses for certain specific rare earth elements and their related magnetic products. Separately, India and Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and, Uzbekistan) have recently expressed interest in joint exploration of rare earth and critical minerals at the recently held India-Central Asia Dialogue here in the national capital.
