The 11th PHDCCI Global Aviation & Air Cargo Conclave–2025 is ready to kickstart on 18 November at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka in New Delhi. The two day event aims to foster dialogue on the evolving dynamics of air transport, infrastructure development, policy frameworks, and the growing role of technology in shaping the sector’s future. It will also explore pathways for enhancing connectivity, improving cargo handling efficiency, and driving sustainable growth. The conclave will bring together the brightest minds and key stakeholders from India’s aviation and air cargo ecosystem. Organised by the PHDCCI in collaboration with leading industry bodies, the conclave will be held under the theme ‘INDIAIRPORT.’ With participation expected from govt officials, airline leaders, airport operators, and logistics experts, the conclave promises to be a platform for charting the next phase of growth in India’s aviation and air cargo landscape.

Rhenus Group plans to expand its airfreight capabilities further into Southeast Asia after setting up gateways in Singapore and Bangkok this year, which are considered as key trade hubs in the region and these new gateways complement Rhenus’ existing gateway in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, plus help optimise cargo flows across Southeast Asia, connecting to global trade lanes, said official release. The strategic gateways strengthen the presence of Rhenus across key air cargo corridors. Kuala Lumpur facilitates inbound cargo from Europe and outbound cargo to Oceania. Singapore handles inbound cargo from Asia or Oceania, and outbound cargo to the Americas, while Bangkok manages outbound cargo to Europe and serves as a multimodal hub to enhance intra-Asia trade capabilities through regional airfreight and cross-border trucking, added release.

Beyond Sqfeet Supplychain Solutions was honoured with the Excellence in Contract Logistics Award at the recently held India Cargo Awards. The recognition highlights the company’s outstanding performance and innovation in contract logistics, showcasing its commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and efficient supply chain management. This achievement underscores Beyond Sqfeet’s growing reputation as a leader in the logistics sector, setting new benchmarks for quality and service within the industry.

Praveen Narayanan, Vice President, Asia Pacific, Group Concorde said, “In emerging markets like India, Southeast Asia, and Africa, GSSAs face regulatory complexity, infrastructure gaps, and intense competition. Variations in customs processes, inconsistent policies, and sudden regulatory changes create unpredictability, delaying cargo clearance. Inadequate airport infrastructure further complicates efficient operations. To navigate these, GSSAs must maintain agility, build strong local networks, and implement proactive compliance mechanisms. Further, strong relationships with local authorities and staff training on regional regulations are essential to ensure seamless operations despite external challenges.”

  Parvinder Singh, MD, Hans Infomatic said, “The official agenda is well thought out and covers current issues and trends. ACAAI needs to reinvent itself to stay relevant and come up with innovative program. It’s quite usual now to see people not turning up for sessions post lunch, which is quite disappointing. Organiser need to come up ideas to engage delegates and bring them to sessions. Organisers work very hard to make the event a success, rest is upto the audience. Participation from local Forwarders community is there but could have been more. Maybe because Bali is a very small place. Overall, delegates are enjoying the resort and the weather.”

Anupama Kachhap, Head of Commercial, WFS said, “The ACAAI Convention in Bali was a truly insightful experience. The theme ‘Connected yet Constrained: Transforming Trade Amidst Rising Barriers’ perfectly captured the challenges and opportunities in today’s global logistics landscape. The discussions on digital transformation, collaboration, and sustainability offered practical direction for turning constraints into growth. A well-organized event that inspired meaningful connections and forward thinking.”

Padma Handa, Director, Hans Infomatic said, “The ACAAI Convention 2025 commenced with a dignified inaugural led by Anil Vazirani,  Samir Shah, and Chaitaly Mehta. The theme “Connected Yet Constrained: Transforming Trade Amidst Rising Barriers” guided the discussions. A highlight was Girish Vanvari’s keynote on Living Wills, Trusts, and financial planning — a valuable takeaway for all delegates. On November 7, sessions delved into global trade shifts, Air Freight Stations, multimodal hubs, and digitalisation with ESG. The day concluded with an inspiring “Veterans Speak” session, where industry stalwarts shared their wisdom, capturing ACAAI’s enduring spirit of connection and growth.”

  Seema Daga, Head Management and Operations, Daga Logistics said, “The ACAAI Convention has been an inspiring platform filled with insightful sessions, impactful leadership, and forward-thinking discussions. The innovative solutions and out-of-the-box ideas shared have opened new perspectives for the logistics and cargo industry, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and adaptability. However, the true value of these ideas lies in their implementation — translating vision into action within our daily operations. With the energy, innovation, and collective expertise showcased, the convention has truly set the stage for transforming the logistics sector into a more efficient, inclusive, and future-ready industry.”

Dileepa BM, CEO, Bonded Trucking, Shreeji Translogistics said, “The Convention proved to be an exceptional event, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals from across the cargo and logistics sector. The morning sessions, moderated by Samir Shah and Chaitaly Mehta were particularly engaging and insightful. I had the privilege of participating in the panel discussion on “Changing Practices at Cargo Terminals; New Facilities, AFSs & Multimodal Cargo Hubs and Expectations of Users.” The discussion offered valuable insights into evolving operational practices and emerging infrastructure trends that are set to benefit the trade in the near future. One of the key takeaways from the session was the concept of Co-loading Bonded Cargo in a Single Truck, an approach that enables smaller shipments to be consolidated and transported more efficiently at reduced costs. This innovative practice has the potential to enhance cost-effectiveness and optimise logistics operations for many stakeholders in the industry. Overall, the convention served as an excellent platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and the sharing of forward-looking ideas that will help shape the future of the cargo and logistics.”

  Debajyoti Bagchi, COO, TT Skill shared, “ACAAI’s 49th convention continues to serve as a crucial platform for knowledge exchange, strategic dialogue, and networking among air cargo stakeholders from India and the delegates from Indonesian logistics fraternity. The panel discussion are based on realistic examples addressing the on ground challenges. ACAAI must a note on the key feedbacks from the stakeholders and facilitate with the concerned government agencies for a prospective solutions for the trade.”