Trade & Tariffs: India-Oman CEPA kicks in June 1, giving Indian exporters duty-free access to 98.08% of Oman’s tariff lines (99.38% of export value), with immediate wins for textiles, agri and processed foods, marine products, gems & jewellery, and more. US Tech Controls: The US clarified its AI chip export ban applies to Chinese firms’ overseas subsidiaries/affiliates, tightening enforcement as Washington closes loopholes. US-India Talks: Brendan Lynch and Darpan Jain begin four-day trade talks in New Delhi to finalise an interim pact and push the broader bilateral trade framework. Asia Supply Chains: Reuters reports Asia’s factory activity expanded in May as firms stockpiled buffers amid Middle East war risk, with China’s private PMI rising for a sixth month. India Manufacturing: India’s May manufacturing PMI hit a three-month high on strong domestic demand and new orders, even as input costs stayed elevated. Consumer & Retail: Japan’s price hikes loom for 1,000+ food and beverage items in June, while Japan’s air-conditioner rush intensifies ahead of stricter standards next April. Healthcare Innovation: KIHT in India received CRO approval, boosting capacity for regulated clinical research for pharma and medical devices. Power Subsidies: Pakistan’s energy minister denied any plan to end electricity subsidies for protected consumers, citing continued QR-code registration. Logistics: TCI expands India’s coastal shipping fleet with new vessels to lift capacity and cut freight costs. Food & Brand Funding: Clean-label D2C brand Anveshan raised Rs 150 crore to expand manufacturing and product lines. Fintech: Coinbase launched direct INR deposits/withdrawals in India via IMPS, enabling spot trading and futures with local order books.