Indian exporters are on high alert as Monkeypox cases spread in Africa, a continent crucial for India’s export strategy. While the virus currently remains confined to certain regions, concerns grow over potential repercussions if it spreads more broadly.
Ajay Sahai, Director General of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), voiced the industry’s guarded optimism. “As of now, the spread is not rampant, but looking into the infection, the exporters are definitely concerned, hoping it will not spread,” Sahai stated.
Trade activities continue without major disruption. An exporter noted that there have been no lockdowns or payment delays across Africa, adding, “But, we are keeping our fingers crossed.”
The Globe Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) provided further insights, observing that the Monkeypox outbreak has had minimal impact on global trade. GTRI founder Ajay Srivastava urged vigilance, advising India to prepare for any eventuality. “India should take precautionary measures to mitigate any potential disruptions in trade and ensure that its public health responses are well-coordinated to prevent the virus from impacting its economy,” Srivastava recommended.
India, to date, reports zero Monkeypox cases. The Union Health Ministry remains proactive, ensuring that all necessary precautions are established to prevent the virus’s entry and spread. Health units at major transit points and testing laboratories are on standby.
This heightened awareness follows the World Health Organization’s (WHO) decision to classify Monkeypox as a public health emergency of international concern once again on August 14. Though the WHO had lifted this designation in May 2023, the recent resurgence has reignited global attention.
India-Africa trade relations hold immense value, with a 9.26 percent increase in bilateral trade during the 2022-23 fiscal year, reaching approximately $100 billion. Exports contributed $51 billion, while imports stood at $47 billion. Both nations target doubling this figure to $200 billion by 2030.
India’s export portfolio to Africa prominently features crude oil and pharmaceuticals, representing nearly 40 percent of total exports. Africa, in return, sends raw materials such as crude oil, minerals, gold, copper, and cashew nuts to India, along with importing refined petroleum, pharmaceutical products, vehicles, and telecom equipment.
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