FIPI
POLICY AND ECONOMIC OIL & GAS MARKET
July 2026 was characterized by a delicate balance between resilience and uncertainty in the global economy. Geopolitical tensions, evolving trade policies and volatility in energy markets continued to pose significant risks to growth, while rapid technological advancement, particularly in artificial intelligence, semiconductors and digital infrastructure, emerged as an important driver of economic activity. Although global inflation moderated from the exceptionally high levels witnessed in recent years, renewed increases in energy prices and supply chain disruptions slowed the pace of disinflation, compelling policymakers to maintain a cautious approach. Against this backdrop, India remained well positioned, supported by resilient domestic demand, stable macroeconomic fundamentals, expanding manufacturing activity and a robust external sector.
Global economic activity remained resilient despite heightened geopolitical uncertainty and continued trade fragmentation. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects global growth at 3.0 per cent in 2026, improving to 3.4 per cent in 2027, with emerging market and developing economies expected to continue outperforming advanced economies. While business activity strengthened across major advanced economies, supported by improving services demand and technology-led investment, elevated input costs, supply chain disruptions and uncertainty surrounding global trade policies continued to weigh on the economic outlook. Inflationary pressures persisted across several economies due to higher energy and transportation costs, even as monetary tightening and easing commodity prices helped contain broader price pressures.
Several structural developments are reshaping the global economy. Artificial intelligence is increasingly emerging as a catalyst for productivity growth, investment and economic transformation, while also creating new challenges related to cybersecurity and financial stability. The changing geopolitical landscape continues to influence global trade and investment patterns, encouraging diversification of supply chains and greater regional economic integration. In addition, the issue examines the implications of evolving labour market dynamics, international trade cooperation and climate resilience in shaping long-term global growth.
India continued to reinforce its position as one of the world's fastest-growing major economies during July 2026. Economic activity remained supported by strong domestic demand, sustained public infrastructure investment and resilient manufacturing and services sectors despite a challenging global environment. Manufacturing activity maintained steady expansion, while services continued to record healthy growth, reflecting sustained business confidence and resilient domestic economic conditions. The Index of Core Industries also recorded improved performance, driven by strong growth in iron ore, electricity, cement and steel production, indicating continued momentum in industrial activity.
Inflation increased during June 2026, primarily due to higher food prices, while inflation across most non- food categories remained relatively moderate. Wholesale prices reflected continued cost pressures arising from higher fuel and manufactured product prices. Against this backdrop, the Reserve Bank of India maintained a balanced monetary policy stance, keeping the policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per
July 2026