‘Private players can contribute expertise in automation & cold chain development’

Vikram Kumar, VP, ACAAI said, “Reducing trade friction and enhancing logistics efficiency demand robust public–private collaboration focused on digital, infrastructural, and policy alignment. Government agencies and industry players must jointly advance digital integration through initiatives like the National Logistics Portal (NLP), Paperless Customs, and single-window clearance systems to streamline cargo movement. Public investment should prioritise multimodal and air cargo transshipment hubs at key airports such as Delhi, Mumbai, and upcoming locations like Hyderabad and Bengaluru— allowing India to serve as a regional trade gateway. Private players can contribute expertise in automation, cold-chain development, and digital freight management to optimise these hubs. Regular policy–industry dialogues are essential to harmonise customs procedures, international regulations, taxation and sustainability goals. Coupled with skill development programs and performance-linked incentives, such coordinated action can transform India’s logistics ecosystem into a digitally connected, efficient, and globally competitive transshipment hub.”