German ties

The visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India assumes significance against the backdrop of geopolitical disruptions triggered by the policies of US President Donald Trump.

Germany is trying to reduce its energy dependence on Russia and reassess the US role in Europe’s security architecture. India faces high US tariffs, and sustained Western pressure to curb its purchase of Russian oil. In this context, both countries have recognised the need to find common ground to safeguard their national interests. The German Chancellor’s reiteration of support for concluding the India–EU Free Trade Agreement at the upcoming EU–India summit on January 27 is therefore timely.

M Jeyaram

Sholavandan (TN)

Welcome move

It refers to ‘No more 10-minute delivery: Govt to e/q-comm players’. Quick commerce platforms used 10-minute delivery as their biggest USP and the line between need and wants blurred for consumers over time. It is heartening that now delivery aggregators can not promise 10-minute delivery. But it is not the end of the road for quick commerce as deliveries will still happen without pushing unsafe driving.

For double income families q-comm was a boon, but few extra minutes for delivery will not make a difference to their lives.

Bal Govind

Noida

Tax equity

Apropos the Editorial ‘Tax breakthrough’ (January 14). The recent OECD agreement on the global minimum tax, while a step forward in curbing profit shifting by multinationals, leaves a major concern with the exemption granted to US-headquartered companies like the big tech giants.

This special treatment, secured under US pressure, means American MNCs largely escape the 15 per cent floor that applies to others, potentially putting non-US firms — including those operating in India — at a relative disadvantage. India, as a signatory, has already moved in the right direction by abolishing the equalisation levy and aligning with the broader framework.

To protect our interests, the government should swiftly finalise and implement Pillar Two rules domestically, including a qualified domestic minimum top-up tax where needed. Continuing to push for fair implementation of Pillar One will also help secure more revenue from digital profits. Such pragmatic steps can ensure India benefits fully from the global effort despite the asymmetry.

A Myilsami

Coimbatore

Published on January 14, 2026