Macrotech Developers (popularly known as Lodha) has completed a share purchase agreement (SPA) to take possession of 100 per cent stake in Janus Logistics and Industrial Parks (JLIPPL). The acquisition of JLIPPL costed ₹47.84 Cr, which makes it a wholly owned subsidiary of Lodha. “The acquisition is in pursuance of our planned strategy for calibrated growth in our annuity income through Digital Infrastructure viz. Industrial and Logistics under the LILP (Lodha Industrial and Logistics Park) brand,” an official statement from Lodha Group stated.  

Vipin Vohra, Chairman – Continental Carriers says – “Air cargo plays a crucial role in global trade by ensuring the rapid and reliable movement of high-value and time-sensitive goods. Also, air cargo provisions in Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can significantly enhance cross-border trade. By reducing tariffs and simplifying customs procedures, FTAs can streamline air freight operations, accelerating the flow of critical goods such as pharmaceuticals, perishables, and electronics. Emphasizing air cargo in FTAs also promotes investment in infrastructure like cargo terminals including off Airport locations (Air Freight Stations) improving efficiency and reducing logistics costs.”

In its world air cargo forecast, Boeing has forecasted that India’s air cargo market is set to grow four times over the next two decades, with a strong contribution from e-commerce volumes. It is also estimated that the freight flows between South Asia and Europe will grow two times over the next two decades whereas the flows between South Asia and East Asia is likely to surge four times during the same period. “Although still relatively small in volume compared to established e-commerce markets like China, the US, or the EU, Indian e-commerce volumes are growing faster than almost anywhere else, at more than 25 per cent per year,” an official statement from Boeing stated.

Shri Surjit Bhujabal, IRS, Member (Customs) CBIC inaugurated the Southern Chapter of Indian Institute of Freight Forwarders (IIFF), recently in Chennai. The Southern Chapter was launched in association with the Chennai Customs Brokers Association (CCBA). IIFF is the training and skill development arm of the Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI). The inauguration program witnessed the gracious presence of Dr. Ram Niwas, IRS, Chief Commissioner of Customs, Chennai Zone and Mr. S. Viswanathan, IAS, Deputy Chairman, Chennai Port Authority. Dushyant Mulani, Chairman, FFFAI; Amit Kamat, Chairman Elect, FFFAI; Shankar Shinde, I.P. Chairman, FFFAI; R. N. Sekar, President, CCBA; S. Nataraja, Hon. Secretary, CCBA; Sudip Dey, Hon. Secretary FFFAI were also present on this occasion. In his inaugural address Member (Customs) CBIC Shri Surjit Bhujabal emphasised the critical role being played by Customs Brokers in facilitating international trade and Ease of Doing Business. Complimenting FFFAI and CCBA for their commendable initiative of launching IIFF skill development chapter in Southern region of India Mr. Bhujabal advised to have special focus on supporting the women entrepreneurs and MSME sector through this skill development exercise.

The Indian logistics sector is set to witness a projected 14.2 per cent workforce growth in H2 FY25 (October 2024 – March 2025), as per the survey report by staffing firm TeamLease Services. The growth is driven mainly due to the rise of 5G logistics, and the National Logistics Policy initiatives. The EV Infrastructure market is also expected to see a growth of 12.1 per cent workforce growth during the same period, whereas the workforce growth percentage for the e-commerce and tech startups is projected to surge 8.9 per cent in H2 FY25.  

Lufthansa Cargo and Maersk have signed an agreement to promote the decarbonization of airfreight with SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel). It will use 400 metric tonnes of SAF on behalf of Maersk in the remainder of 2024. The expected cut down of CO2 emissions corresponds to at least 1,200 metric tonnes. “SAF is a decisive technological key to more sustainable flying and essential for the energy transition in aviation. With Maersk we are jointly making a valuable contribution with the new agreement. At the same time, more sustainable flying also requires major efforts for a modern fleet and increased efficiency in flight operations. It is only through this interplay that change can be achieved sustainably,” Ashwin Bhat, CEO, Lufthansa Cargo, said.

As part its strategic expansion plan for South India, FedEx has launched a direct flight between Guangzhou and Bengaluru via using a 767-300 freighter. This new trade lane will boost exports from Asia-Pacific region to Europe and the USA. FedEx has further strengthened its operations in Bengaluru, adding to its 22 weekly flights to and from the city. The flight will pave the way for essential imports of lithium-ion batteries and key components of the automotive and electronics industries. “India is one of the most exciting economic growth stories in the world today and represents a critical growth market for FedEx. I’m excited about the opportunities here in this dynamic and fast-changing region and am proud to strengthen our commitment to India by connecting local businesses to the world,” Richard W. Smith, COO, International and CEO, Airline, FedEx said.

Aiming to reduce logistics costs and enhance freight efficiency, The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has completed the logistics plans for Delhi and Bengaluru. Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ’s) Green Freight Project has assisted the authorities in the preparation of the model. “Both Delhi and Karnataka governments have provided support for developing the logistics plans, Rajeev Singh Thakur, Additional Secretary, DPIIT said. The objectives of the plan include betterment of the infrastructure and technology for improved freight efficiency, promotion of sustainable logistics solutions and the optimization of the urban freight movements. The key features of the initiative include establishment of dedicated freight corridors, creation of the smart logistics hubs and promotion of EVs for last-mile delivery solutions.  

DB Schenker has successfully completed the trial operation of remote-controlled forklifts at its contract logistics site in Kassel, Germany. Drivers can now control the vehicles from distance through a remote driving setup, pioneered by enabl Technologies. They are connected to several different vehicles at different locations via the enable platform. “The collaboration with enable allows us to react flexibly to fluctuations in demand and automate our processes to enhance productivity. We see this partnership with enabl Technologies as a valuable addition to our CL digitalization strategy, which will help us to secure our competitiveness in the long term.” Lucas Mömken, Vice President Global Engineering & Innovation in Contract Logistics, DB Schenker said.  

EndureAir Systems has successfully delivered the Sabal 20 logistics drone to the Indian Army in Eastern theatre. This highly advanced drone technology will enhance the logistics capabilities for defense forces operating in challenging terrains. Sabal 20 is an electric unmanned helicopter based on variable pitch technology, designed specifically for aerial logistics, capable of carrying payloads of up to 20 kilograms, equivalent to 50% of its own weight. “We are honored to contribute towards the progress of the Indian Army modernizing its logistics capabilities. With EndureAir’s Sabal 20, we reaffirm our commitment to providing indigenous, innovative UAV solutions that empower our armed forces and support their mission-critical needs in diverse environment, ensuring operational excellence,” Dr. Abhishek, Director and Co-founder, EndureAir, said.