The construction of Machilipatnam Port’s four berths is progressing rapidly, with breakwater works reaching 95 percent completion as it prepares for operational readiness by March 2027 to serve as a major economic hub. On the international trade front, India remains in active negotiation with the United States regarding a proposed bilateral trade agreement, seeking stability and comparative market advantages. Domestically, India’s merchandise exports surged by 19.6 percent in July to reach $44.24 billion, driven by petroleum and electronic products, though elevated crude oil imports widened the monthly trade deficit to $31.98 billion. Meanwhile, increased domestic demand for palm and soybean oils pushed India’s total edible oil imports up by 33.3 percent in July to 14.81 lakh tonnes.