Core Points - The EU has reached an agreement on new regulations that pave the way for the use of gene editing technology in agriculture, aimed at helping farmers cultivate healthier plant and animal varieties to address climate change challenges [1][3] - The new regulations exempt gene-edited organisms from the EU's GMO regulatory framework, distinguishing gene editing from traditional genetic modification by simulating natural breeding processes without introducing cross-species DNA [1][3] Industry Impact - The agricultural protection industry views this technology as essential for enhancing crop and livestock resilience against extreme weather, pests, and diseases, providing EU farmers a competitive edge against countries like the US that already permit gene editing [3][4] - The EU Council stated that the new regulations will make the EU food system safer and more sustainable, enabling the cultivation of crops that are more resilient to climate change and pests, with higher yields and reduced reliance on fertilizers and pesticides [3][4] Regulatory Changes - The new measures are expected to reduce administrative burdens while enhancing the competitiveness of breeding companies and farmers [4] - The regulations still require formal approval from the European Parliament and the EU Council before coming into effect [3] Stakeholder Reactions - The EU agricultural association Copa-Cogeca welcomed the agreement as a historic advancement and the only practical solution for farmers under the EU's Green Deal framework [5] - Environmental organization "Friends of the Earth" criticized the regulatory relaxation, labeling it as a deregulation of new genetically modified organisms and a "pass" for the biotechnology industry [6]

Group 1: Impact of US Tariffs on India - Fitch Ratings warns that the ongoing increase in US tariffs may lower India's GDP growth forecast for FY2026 from 6.5% [1] - The US has imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods starting August 7, with an additional 25% tariff on products imported from India due to its ties with Russia [1] - Major Indian exports such as textiles, jewelry, auto parts, and seafood will face a total of 50% tariffs, while certain electronics and pharmaceuticals will remain exempt [1][6] Group 2: Effects on Indian Companies - Indian pharmaceutical companies, like Biocon Biologics, derive nearly 40% of their revenue from the US, making them vulnerable to new tariffs [6] - UPL, a major player in crop protection chemicals, faces potential pressure as 10%-12% of its revenue comes from the US market [7] - The imposition of tariffs could lead to a significant decline in India's competitiveness in the US market, with potential export drops of 60% to 80% depending on tariff levels [10] Group 3: Business Reactions and Strategies - Companies like Farida Group, which relies heavily on the US market, have frozen expansion plans due to the tariff impact [8] - The "India+1" strategy is gaining traction among companies considering relocating from India due to the unfavorable tariff environment [9] - Exporters are experiencing a demand drop of around 20% in the short term, with some factories resorting to significant price cuts to retain customers [10]