‘Budget lacks incentives for AI and automation in logistics’

Amit Maheshwari, CEO & Founder, Softlink Global says, “The Finance Bill 2025 makes some progress in streamlining customs processes and tax compliance for logistics, but it also increases the regulatory burden on freight forwarders. Faster dispute resolution and improved customs duty assessments will help reduce clearance delays, but enhanced powers for reassessments could lead to unexpected cost escalations. A key missed opportunity in this bill is the lack of incentives for AI and automation in logistics. While global markets are actively investing in AI-driven supply chain optimization, India’s logistics sector is left without structured tax benefits for AI-powered automation, paperless trade, and blockchain security solutions. If we want to position India as a global logistics leader, we need policies that encourage digital transformation and next-gen logistics technology. We hope to see these gaps addressed in future reforms.”