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.    

Reshma Zaheer, Chief Operating Officer, TT Logistics & Cargo, was felicitated with the DDP Game Changer of the Year Award. With over three decades of experience in the air cargo industry, Zaheer combines deep expertise with a forward-looking leadership approach. As COO of TT Logistics for the past 15 years, she has been pivotal in expanding the company’s GSSA operations and in establishing global capability centres that create long-term strategic value for partners and customers.

Vikramjit Singh Ahluwalia, Managing Director, Air Logistics Group India, was presented the DDP Trailblazer Award at the India Cargo Awards 2025. Having over three decades of experience in global aviation cargo and logistics, Ahluwalia is widely recognised for his vision and execution. He has been instrumental in launching and establishing operations for leading global carriers, including BMI Cargo, Ocean Airlines, Jade Cargo International, All Nippon Airways, Garuda Indonesia, Brussels Airlines, Alitalia, American Airlines, DHL Aviation, and Sichuan Airlines across India. Under his stewardship, Air Logistics Group India has become a trusted strategic partner for global airlines, setting benchmarks in service quality, operational excellence, and customer-centric solutions. Known for his integrity, innovation, compliance, and commitment to sustainable growth, he established the company as one of the most respected names in the industry.

J. Krishnan, Partner, S. Natesa Iyer, Logistics and Past President, The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI), entered the Gallery of Legends in recognition of his outstanding contribution and leadership in the air cargo and logistics industry.

The India Cargo Awards 2025 took place on 8 September 2025 at Le Méridien, New Delhi. Marking a significant milestone, this edition celebrated its 10th year of recognising excellence in the cargo and logistics sector. Known as the ‘Oscars of the Industry,’ the awards united leaders, innovators and stakeholders from across the cargo and logistics sector. The prestigious event celebrated excellence, resilience, innovation, honouring organisations and individuals for their contributions to the industry. Piyush Srivastava, Senior Economic Advisor, Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, was the Chief Guest, while Pankaj Kumar, Joint Secretary Logistics, DPIIT, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry was the Guest of Honour. Jivisha Joshi Gangopadhyay, Deputy Secretary, International Cooperation, Ease of Doing Business and Salt, Sagar Kadu, Director, Logistics, DPIIT, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, were the other distinguished dignitaries present at at ceremony. Together with industry stalwarts, they performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony and unveiled a coffee table handbook. With categories recognising trailblazers, gamechangers and future leaders, the awards underscored the role of air cargo and logistics in driving India’s economic growth and strengthening global connectivity. The evening was a celebration of achievements and an inspiration for the industry’s next chapter of progress.

Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart, said, “The GST Council’s decision to rationalise tax slabs is a progressive step for India’s consumption-driven economy. By easing tax rates on freight services, with multimodal transport within India at 5 per cent (down from 12 per cent) and road haulage rentals reduced to 5 per cent, the move will directly lower logistics costs and simplify compliance. We anticipate household demand across FMCG, durables and automobiles, and this momentum will drive higher shipment volumes across our networks, as we approach the festive season. We welcome this reform as it allows us to streamline logistics planning, reduce operating costs and strengthen the ecosystem for growth. We see this as an opportunity to enhance our role as the logistics partner of choice, delivering greater value, while continuing to innovate for the future of India’s logistics industry.”