Keku Bomi Gazder, CEO & MD, Aviapro Logistic says, “Changing trade policies can have significant ramifications on global supply chains, influencing sourcing strategies, production locations, and distribution networks. Tariffs, trade agreements, and geopolitical tensions can disrupt established supply chains, leading to increased costs, delays, and uncertainties for businesses worldwide. As a company operating within this complex landscape, we closely monitor trade policy developments and adapt our strategies accordingly. We prioritize agility and resilience in our supply chain operations to mitigate risks associated with policy changes. Additionally, we maintain open communication channels with our suppliers and partners to swiftly address any emerging challenges. From the government, we expect transparent and consistent trade policies that foster a conducive environment for international trade. Clear regulations, minimal bureaucratic hurdles, and a commitment to free and fair trade are essential for businesses to thrive in the global marketplace. Furthermore, we encourage policymakers to engage in constructive dialogues with industry stakeholders to understand their concerns and develop policies that support sustainable economic growth. Additionally, investments in infrastructure, technology, and skill development are crucial to enhance the competitiveness of Indian businesses on the global stage. By fostering an enabling environment for trade and innovation, the government can contribute to the resilience and prosperity of the Indian economy amidst evolving global dynamics.”

Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA shares, “The risks of geo-political tensions and the impact they have on supply chains, often go without notice. The recent situation in the middle east which escalated to closing off the red sea shipping lanes was one example. It very quickly caused crucial drug shortages in parts of Europe and whilst air cargo was quickly mobilized to support, accessing suitable capacity at short notice was a challenge. Additionally, effective disruption management requires constant interaction between partners to identify if temperature excursions are at risk and to then agree on corrective measures. For this to be optimized we need much greater adoption of universal digital standards and the agreement to utilize and share data across the community.

The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) is all set to organize its second edition of International Conference on Shipping and Logistics on March 22 in Hyderabad to focus on the cutting-edge trends and innovations shaping the shipping and logistics landscape. The event is being organised with the support of Ministry of MSME. It is a multidisciplinary Mega Conference to share the innovative ideas in facilitating better logistics management in the industry. The conference will invite a thriving network of entrepreneurs, industry experts, and professionals who are converging to bring out impactful solutions through esspecially curated panel discussions and keynotes.

Beyond SqFeet Supply Chain Solutions has started construction of its new state-of-the-art storage facility at Tharu Road, Gurgaon, Haryana. “This is Phase 1 development of our North India footprint. The facility will provide efficient storage solutions and it will facilitate B2B and B2C fulfilment for our customers. The facility is ESG Compliant with ultra-modern amenities,” said an official LinkedIn Post. “With large scale infrastructure projects under construction, such as Delhi – Mumbai Industrial Corridor, Dedicated Freight Corridor, NCR remains as the strong consumption centre in India, we are looking to expand quickly in North and up-North geographies,” said Pratap Hazra, Director, Beyond SqFeet Supply Chain Solutions in a LinkedIn post.

DP World has inaugurated the latest in a string of more than 100 freight forwarding offices across the world, marking a significant expansion aimed at supporting customers navigating the complexities of global trade. In response to increasing disruptions to global trade – from climate change, geopolitics and macroeconomic challenges – DP World has embarked on a bold initiative to bolster its commitment to its customers. The offices already employ 1,000 staff, adding to DP World’s already 108,000-strong team and this is expected to grow significantly over the next 12 months, helping move more than 10% of global trade every year. In India, DP World has a strong freight forwarding network with offices in over 16 locations including major metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and tier I cities like Pune, Ahmedabad, Cochin, and Jaipur to name a few. Fuelled by global trade disruptions, businesses are now prioritising dynamic strategies to build resilience into their supply chains, according to Economist Impact research[1]. The traditional asset-light freight forwarding model, which moves cargo via third parties, has proven to be susceptible to disruption at key chokepoints and can have knock-on effects for inventory and fulfilment planning for businesses and their customers. With businesses seeking increased control over their supply chains, DP World’s expansion comes at a pivotal time for the global logistics and supply chain industry. By expanding its freight forwarding offering, with a focus on air and ocean freight, DP World will deploy its ‘toolbox’ of services or capabilities made up of ports, terminals, warehouses, trucks, rail and shipping services to increase control and resilience, supported by proprietary digital technology, whilst also working with complementary partners across the supply chain to boost …

Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) has signed MoU with Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) for driving innovation and efficiency in the logistics. The partnership aims to leverage the respective strengths of CONCOR and CWC to optimize supply chain management, enhance customer service, and foster growth in the industry. The collaboration will encompass sharing infrastructure, technology, expertise, and resources to achieve common objectives to offer seamless and cost-effective, end to-end logistics service including First Mile Last Mile solution by offering to its stakeholders the best logistics solutions with an overall purpose to reduce the logistics cost of the nation. CONCOR operates 59 terminals across the country along with two strategic tie-ups. The company’s primary operation is to provide inland transportation of containers from ports using rail wagons. The company also manages cold storage chains and warehouses. The logistics solution providers consolidated net profit rose 12.42% to Rs 330.74 crore on 10.28% increase in revenue from operation to Rs 2,210.57 crore in Q3 FY24 over Q3 FY23.

Sunil Kohli, Managing Director, Rahat Cargo says, “The air cargo sector has recently seen growth in the export of high-value goods and pharma, the industry is focusing on ensuring safe and seamless transportation followed by efficient deliveries. So, it’s vital to have exporters’ friendly rules & guidelines in place by the govt which could encourage them to achieve their optimal productivity in maximising the exports. It may be noted that the disruptions in the supply chain also have a direct and an indirect impact on inflation. The direct impact is related to the prices of imported goods, which rise as shipping costs increase. The indirect impact is related to an increase in the price of tradable inputs used in the domestic non-tradable sector.”

Delhi L-G VK Saxena has given the go-ahead for setting up a Special Economic Zone (SEZ)/Free Trade Zone (FTZ), at the Indira Gandhi International Airport over an area of five acres, a move that will give a major economic boost to the capital, the LG Office said in a press release. According to the LG Office, “Related to the Cargo Infrastructure and other allied activities, this SEZ/FTZ once operationalized will give a massive fillip to the logistics sector and catalyse the economic growth apart from spinoffs for generating employment”. The LG approved the proposal taking note of the strategic importance of developing an FTZ/SEZ at the Airport hub, after ensuring that DDA gives a go-ahead for the same as per provisions of MPD-2021, the release stated. “The SEZ would create economic activities through exports, warehousing, trading and provisions for related services at the Airport complex. It will also liberalize and reduce procedural complexities in terms of applications, licensing, clearances and other regulations and reduce red tape, apart from providing tax benefits to entrepreneurs,” the release said. The official press note stated that the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India has identified Delhi as a Pilot Air Cargo Hub which requires Tier 1, 2 and 3 level infrastructure while DIAL already has developed Tier 1 & 2 infrastructure by way of developing two cargo terminals and logistics centres at the Airport, it will achieve Tier 3 once an SEZ / FTZ comes up at the Airport complex. “DIAL proposed the setting up of two multi-product SEZs at the IGI Airport over an area of 2.02 hectares each (5 acres) and requested for Delhi Government’s recommendation under SEZ Rules, 2006. Thereafter, …

GMR led Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has achieved a significant milestone by transshipping over 80 lakh kgs of Bangladeshi cargo to international destinations in the last one year. The first batch of transshipment cargo left Delhi Airport on March 5, 2023. Since then, Delhi Airport has helped transship Bangladeshi Cargo to various international locations including Spain, Netherlands, and France. Delhi Airport has transshipped over 5.17 lakh MT of international cargo between April 2023 and January 2024. This achievement not only cements Delhi Airport’s status as the foremost Cargo hub in Southeast Asia but also catalyzes a favorable domino effect throughout the aviation industry. The transshipment facility for Bangladeshi cargo first began on February 26, 2023, paving the way for a faster and cost-effective route of shipping export cargo internationally. Since then, Delhi Airport has helped tranship over 80 lakh kgs (8000 MT) of readymade garments to European nations including Spain, Netherlands, and France. The European Union is the second-largest export destination for Bangladeshi apparel, followed by UK and Canada. The first batch of cargo, which left Dhaka on February 26, 2023, arrived at Delhi Airport on March 3, 2023, and proceeded for its destined location in Spain on March 5, 2023. The Government of India’s approval on February 7, 2023, allowing Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) to serve as a Cargo Transshipment hub between Bangladesh and other global destinations, has significantly boosted international ties and the national economy. This decision has not only reduced shipment costs for manufacturers but has also led to a daily increase in the export of international cargo via Delhi Airport, covering a spectrum of products, from ready-made garments (RMG) and handlooms to footwear, leather …

Cyrus Katgara, Partner, Jeena & Co, says, “Ensuring data integrity across medical products and services throughout the supply chain is a significant challenge, alongside other areas in the sector that require improvement. While efforts are underway to address various issues, the shortage of skilled workforce remains a major pain point.” Focusing on Govt’s initiatives to improve multimodal infrastructure, he adds, “Governments and private sector are actively investing in the enhancement of transportation infrastructure. These investments aim to facilitate the accommodation of temperature-controlled vehicles and facilities through various upgrades and expansions. Furthermore, there is a notable integration of advanced technologies such as GPS tracking, temperature monitoring systems, and remote control mechanisms into reefer vehicles. This integration is geared towards improving the precision and efficiency of managing temperature-sensitive shipments, thereby optimizing overall logistics operations. Additionally, the establishment of strategically located cold chain warehouses along transportation routes is playing a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless transfer of goods between different modes of transport while maintaining the requisite temperature conditions. Along with infrastructure and technological advancements, the government is instituting regulations and standards to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of perishable goods. These regulations encompass vehicle specifications, driver training protocols, and strict adherence to temperature maintenance guidelines.”