Allcargo Supply Chain, part of Allcargo Logistics has announced the launch of its logistics park in Panapakkam, near Chennai. Spread across 2.75 lakh sq ft of Grade A warehousing space, the facility marks a significant expansion of the company’s southern network and reinforces its strategy of infrastructure-driven growth. Strategically located at the intersection of NH 76 and SH 50, the Panapakkam Logistics Park offers smooth access to Red Hills, Chennai Port, Sri City, Sriperumbudur and Oragadam, positioning it as a vital multi-modal hub for pan-India distribution. The facility also marks a significant step in diversifying Allcargo Supply Chain’s business in the southern zone, with sector focus anchored by around 50% automobile, supported by e-commerce and consumer durables.

Amid ongoing political crisis in Nepal, Shyama Prasad Mookerjee (SMP) Port, Kolkata, has assured full support for trade to ensure smooth cargo movement to Nepal. He said, “Nepal relies heavily on Kolkata port facilities for its third-country trade, with the majority of cargo transported by rail. We are closely monitoring the situation. So far, there has been no request for special support, but we are always accommodative for any assistance or relaxation for trade if needed due to the unrest,” said Samrat Rahi, Deputy Chairman, SMP Port in reports.   Container freight stations with warehousing facilities near the India-Nepal border are expected to ensure continuity in operations, minimising any delays in unloading or discharge of Nepal-bound cargo, he added.

According to new data from Knight Frank India, India’s logistics landscape is undergoing a structural transformation with the country’s warehousing market recording a 42 per cent year-on-year (YoY) surge in leasing activity to 32.1 million sq ft in the first half of 2025. While this growth is a headline for property analysts, its real significance lies in how it strengthens the backbone of India’s supply chains — and by extension, its capacity to accelerate time-critical freight flows through the air cargo sector. The latest figures point to more than a cyclical rebound. They suggest that India’s industrial and logistics hubs are entering a phase of coordinated expansion, driven by manufacturing growth, technology-enabled Grade A facilities and the clustering of high-value industries around key airport gateways. Together, these trends are reshaping how air cargo operators can design, optimise and scale their networks. India’s logistics sector saw a 42 per cent YoY rise in H1 2025, driven by manufacturing clusters in Mumbai, Pune and Chennai, boosting high-value, time-sensitive shipments for pharmaceuticals, electronics and automotive exports. 63 per cent of new warehouse space meets Grade A standards, offering faster cargo build-up, automation readiness, compliance with international protocols and energy-efficient designs aligned with global ESG targets. Expanding third-party logistics and e-commerce operations leverage airport-adjacent warehouses, reducing first-mile transit, improving export cut-offs, and enabling co-location of bonded and cold-chain facilities for streamlined airfreight operations, the report added.  

Abhishek Goyal, CEO& ED, Aeroprime Group said, “Emerging markets present tremendous opportunities but also come with unique regulatory and operational complexities. In India, taxation, licensing and evolving aviation and air cargo policies can be challenging. Southeast Asia’s diversity means that each market comes with its own regulatory framework, requiring highly tailored approaches. Africa, while full of promise with its expanding trade lanes, continues to face challenges such as infrastructure bottlenecks, limited digital penetration and currency convertibility issues. For GSSAs, the key is to remain compliant, build strong local networks and adapt flexibly to these conditions while still delivering globally consistent service quality for their airline partners. It is equally important to build a strong pipeline that ensures smooth cargo flow, maintain market presence and visibility and establish stable operations backed by exceptional customer service.”

The Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI) held its’ managing committee meeting at Kolkata hosted by Eastern Region Chapter (ERC) followed by its annual seminar on logistics. Suresh Kumar Rekhawat, Vice President & International Logistics Head at PCBL Chemicals Ltd graced the occasion as the chief Guest. He spoke at length about Amrit Kal vision and how India is on its way to become third largest economy even with USA tariffs. He appreciated the yeoman service that the freight forwarders are doing and informed the house that they must be treated as partners in growth. Subhojit Roy, Advocate and Partner Victor Moses & Co, was invited as the Guest of Honour. He said, “Laws must be well-understood and should never be assumed or taken for granted. He gave an insiders’ view on the application of various laws. Arun Kumar, President, AMTOI said, “AMTOI remains in touch with the policy makers and on matters relating to multi-modalism, it forwards its suggestion to them in timely manner. AMTOI actively assists in MTO registration and renewal and has a grievance redressal cell.” He further informed that the house as AMTOI has a say in drafting maritime related laws and they have been writing to GST council and have taken up matter relating to Sea Cargo Manifest and Transhipment Regulations (SCMTR).” Brij Lakhotia, Convenor ERC said, “Eastern Region holds a place of great strategic importance in our nation’s logistics and supply chain landscape. With its unique geographical position, rich natural resources, vibrant trade routes and access to both domestic hinterlands and international markets through ports like Kolkata, Haldia, Paradip and Vizag the East is emerging as a logistics hub of the future.” …

  Sunil Kohli, MD, Rahat Cargo said, “The long awaited rationalisation of GST components has finally come through thereby providing considerable relief to the domestic consumers. The reduced GST rate bracket slabs will expectedly bring cheers to the local manufacturers, retailers and the general public. However, the cargo trade fraternity, which has already been reeling under the punitive tariff imposition by the president Trump, has not been provided with any relief in the current GST @ 18% being charged on the airfreight and the related clearance functions. Needless to mention, the GST being a considerable amount adds to the overall cost of the product being exported thus resulting into an inflated price to the buyers abroad. Resultantly our competitors from other countries derive an edge over our shippers. The government therefore must review the said issue and consider either elimination of the GST components on exports or considerably lowering the tax slab.”

  Kapil Makhija, MD & CEO, Unicommerce said, “GST 2.0 introduces important simplifications in India’s tax system that could positively impact the e-commerce sector. By reducing tax slabs and rates on essentials and consumer durables, it can help make products more affordable and encourage greater participation in digital commerce. The reform streamlines compliance, easing operational challenges for sellers and supporting market expansion. It is also expected to benefit e-commerce exports, as simplified tax structures and reduced compliance complexities can enhance competitiveness of Indian products in global markets and fuel cross-border trade. As these changes take effect during the festive season, they are expected to boost consumer spending and increase affordability, creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.”    

DP World’s Mundra International Container Terminal (MICT) set a record performance in August 2025, handling 1,42,273 TEUs — its highest-ever monthly volume. This demonstrates its growing importance as a major trade gateway for India, surpassing the previous record of 1,38,983 TEUs in March 2025. With direct links to major global markets across the Far East, Southeast Asia, Middle East, Africa, Europe and the United States, Mundra continues to expand its international reach and strengthen supply chain resilience for businesses in India and beyond. Alok Mishra, CEO, Ports & Terminals, DP World Mundra, said, “This record-breaking performance reflects the growing confidence of our customers and expertise of our teams. By optimising efficiency and expanding trade connectivity, we are ensuring DP World Mundra remains a key hub for driving trade flows across the region. We continue to deliver value through reliable services, sustainable practices, and world-class infrastructure.”

The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has approved the development of a logistics and warehousing hub inSector 8-F, close to the upcoming Noida International Airport in Jewar, at a recent board meeting, said reports. Officials said they expect a sharp rise in demand for cargo handling once the airport becomes operational later this year.

Fletcher Samuel, Assistant General Manager and Senior Lead for Cargo Business at Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), was felicitated with the DDP Face of the Future Award. At BIAL, he plays a pivotal role in driving strategic initiatives and fostering innovation in air cargo operations. With a focus on efficiency and collaborative partnerships, Fletcher has successfully led key projects that have enhanced cargo movement and strengthened infrastructure at Kempegowda airport. In addition to his role at BIAL, Fletcher serves as the Chairman of the ACFI-BLR Chapter, actively contributing to industry-wide dialogue and development. His diverse global experience across major logistics hubs, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, brings a unique perspective on cargo operations and airport logistics, further strengthening his leadership.