‘This shift is part of broader transformation to stay adaptable & relevant’

Balagopal Balachandran, National Head – Air Freight, FEI Cargo said, “While the world contends with slowing growth, trade wars and geopolitical uncertainty, India is quietly building something far more resilient – it’s domestic market. “Local is the new Global.” India’s private consumption has doubled over the decades , rising from $1 trillion in 2013 to approx. $2.1 trillion in 2024. A rising urban middle class , growing appetite for faster services and the localisation of global supply chain are accelerating demand for domestic air cargo .  Organisations that once chased global revenues are now doubling down on Indian soil and honestly It’s working. With geopolitical tensions impacting global supply chains and EXIM trade flows, Indian air cargo agents are strategically depending towards the domestic cargo market. This shift is not merely reactive but part of a broader transformation to stay adaptable and relevant. Agents are realigning networks to serve Tier 2 and 3 cities forming strategic tie ups with regional and low-cost carriers to optimise domestic air space and ensuring faster turnarounds.

There is growing investment in express logistics , temp controlled shipments, and airport-based consolidation centres to support time sensitive goods. Some leading agents are even developing domestic distribution hubs, positioning themselves as integral link in India’s consumption driven growth story . By diversifying into domestic cargo, agents are not just hedging against EXIM volatility but also tapping into India’s rapidly growing internal economy.”