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Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) has started a scheduled express export rail service linking Inland Container Depot (ICD) Dhandari Kalan in Ludhiana with Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JN Port) near Mumbai, with the route passing through Dadri. The first service operated on August 29, creating a dedicated rail connection between one of Punjab’s major industrial centres and India’s principal container gateways. The service is intended to provide exporters with more predictable cargo movement and reduce transit delays associated with moving containers from northern manufacturing clusters to the western coast. The new service strengthens the inland-to-port supply chain for exporters based in Ludhiana and surrounding industrial areas. The city has a significant manufacturing base covering engineering products, textiles and garments, bicycles and components, machinery and other manufactured goods. Routing the express service through Dadri is expected to improve transit efficiency and provide greater schedule certainty for export consignments. This can allow shippers to better coordinate factory dispatches, inland container movements, customs processes and vessel cut-off requirements at JN Port. The development also builds on efforts by JNPA and CONCOR to improve rail connectivity between northern India and JN Port through the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor. Earlier this year, the two organisations held a trade interaction in Ludhiana with exporters, importers, shipping lines, container train operators and logistics companies to discuss the expanded rail connection. For cargo owners, a scheduled rail service can improve planning beyond simply reducing transit time. More consistent movement between an inland container depot and the port can help exporters manage inventory, container positioning and port delivery windows while reducing exposure to delays on long-distance road movements. ICD Dhandari Kalan is strategically positioned on the rail network serving Punjab and neighbouring states. JNPA identifies the Ludhiana facility as an important inland container location serving exporters and importers across Punjab as well as nearby regions. The shift toward scheduled rail services also supports greater use of multimodal transport for export cargo. Moving containers by rail over long distances can reduce reliance on road haulage for the inland leg, while giving exporters another option for connecting production centres with maritime services. The Ludhiana–JN Port link is particularly relevant for North India's export supply chain because cargo from manufacturing clusters must travel considerable distances before reaching a maritime gateway. Improving the reliability of that inland leg can have a direct bearing on overall shipment planning, port connectivity and logistics costs. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) has stepped up efforts to strengthen rail-based container evacuation and multimodal connectivity between the port and major consumption and distribution centres in the Mumbai region. JNPA Chairman Gaurav Dayal, IAS, accompanied by Deputy Chairman Ravish Singh, IRTS, and senior port officials, conducted a field inspection of key railway infrastructure along the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) route. The inspection focused on infrastructure that could support faster and more efficient movement of containerised cargo from JNPA towards Bhiwandi, one of the region’s prominent warehousing and distribution hubs. Improved rail connectivity to the logistics cluster is expected to help reduce transit times, enhance supply-chain efficiency and ease pressure on road networks handling container traffic. During the visit, the JNPA delegation inspected Kharbhav Railway Station to assess its strategic integration with the DFC and its potential role in facilitating container movement. The location is being evaluated in the context of improving rail connectivity between the port and inland consumption and distribution centres. The team also visited the Bhiwandi Warehousing Hub, where officials reviewed warehousing capacity, last-mile logistics infrastructure and storage readiness. With Bhiwandi serving as a major logistics and fulfilment cluster for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, efficient links between the port, rail network and warehousing facilities are increasingly important for supporting growing cargo volumes. Another key stop was New Nilanje Railway Station, which was inspected for its potential to serve as an additional freight node. The assessment forms part of broader efforts to identify infrastructure opportunities that can improve cargo evacuation and provide greater flexibility within the regional freight network. The DFC is designed to facilitate faster and more reliable freight transportation by providing dedicated rail infrastructure for goods movement. For ports such as JNPA, stronger integration with the freight corridor can support a shift towards rail-based cargo evacuation, potentially improving turnaround times while reducing dependence on road transport for longer-haul container movements. The latest field review highlights JNPA’s focus on developing an integrated logistics ecosystem linking port infrastructure with rail freight, warehousing and last-mile distribution. As cargo flows and supply-chain requirements continue to evolve, enhanced multimodal connectivity will remain critical to improving the efficiency, resilience and competitiveness of India’s logistics network. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyrgyzstan on Sunday to attend the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, where leaders are expected to discuss regional security, economic cooperation and ways to deepen engagement among member countries. Modi travelled to Bishkek at the invitation of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov, following the conclusion of his two-day state visit to Uzbekistan. His participation at the summit comes as the SCO marks 25 years of its existence and as India continues to strengthen its economic and connectivity links with Central Asia. The summit will bring together leaders of SCO member states for discussions on regional and international developments and on expanding cooperation within the grouping. For India, the meeting provides an opportunity to advance its engagement with Central Asian economies, including on trade, transport connectivity and infrastructure. Modi's Kyrgyzstan visit follows a series of agreements reached during his Uzbekistan trip. India and Uzbekistan upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to cooperate across areas including trade and investment, infrastructure, digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and space. The two countries have also set an objective of increasing bilateral trade to $5 billion by 2030, compared with more than $1 billion currently. Improving market access, connectivity and banking and payment mechanisms has been identified as part of the effort to expand commercial ties. For the logistics and supply-chain sector, deeper engagement with Central Asia is particularly relevant as India seeks greater access to markets in the region and improved trade corridors connecting the country with landlocked Central Asian economies. Infrastructure and connectivity remain important factors in determining the cost and reliability of such trade. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
China’s Ningbo-Zhoushan Port has overtaken Singapore to become the world’s second-busiest container port during the first half of 2026, according to the latest container throughput rankings compiled by shipping analyst Alphaliner. The shift marks a notable change in the global port hierarchy, although the margin between the two gateways remains narrow. Ningbo-Zhoushan handled 22.90 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) between January and June 2026, registering an 8.8% year-on-year increase. Singapore, meanwhile, processed 22.74 million TEUs, up 4.7% from the corresponding period last year. The difference of roughly 160,000 TEUs highlights the increasingly competitive race for the second position. Shanghai retained its position as the world’s busiest container port, handling approximately 28.74 million TEUs in the first half of 2026, an increase of 6.2% year on year. The latest ranking therefore places two Chinese ports at the top, with Ningbo-Zhoushan moving ahead of Singapore for the first time over a complete six-month reporting period. Jintang Expansion Strengthens Ningbo-Zhoushan Ningbo-Zhoushan’s stronger growth has been supported by capacity expansion and improved international connectivity. The second phase of the Jintang container hub was completed in July 2026, bringing all five operational container berths within the expanded development. During the first half of the year, Jintang added 17 international shipping routes, while its container volumes increased by 23.4%. The expansion is expected to strengthen the port complex’s ability to accommodate rising cargo demand and serve an expanding network of global trade lanes. The port has experienced significant growth over the past two decades, crossing 20 million TEUs in 2015 and 30 million TEUs in 2021. In 2025, it exceeded 40 million TEUs for the first time, handling 43.87 million TEUs for the full year. Singapore remained ahead in the annual ranking, recording 44.66 million TEUs. Competition Expected to Remain Close Despite Ningbo-Zhoushan’s first-half lead, Singapore remains a formidable competitor. Alphaliner has indicated that Ningbo-Zhoushan’s growth could moderate during the second half of 2026, leaving open the possibility of Singapore reclaiming the second position. For global supply chains, the development underscores how port investments, shipping connectivity, cargo generation and changing trade patterns are reshaping the competitive landscape. With only a small volume separating the two ports, the battle for the world’s second-busiest container gateway is likely to remain closely watched through the remainder of 2026. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) has started a scheduled express export rail service linking Inland Container Depot (ICD) Dhandari Kalan in Ludhiana with Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JN Port) near Mumbai, with the route passing through Dadri. The first service operated on August 29, creating a dedicated rail connection between one of Punjab’s major industrial centres and India’s principal container gateways. The service is intended to provide exporters with more predictable cargo movement and reduce transit delays associated with moving containers from northern manufacturing clusters to the western coast. The new service strengthens the inland-to-port supply chain for exporters based in Ludhiana and surrounding industrial areas. The city has a significant manufacturing base covering engineering products, textiles and garments, bicycles and components, machinery and other manufactured goods. Routing the express service through Dadri is expected to improve transit efficiency and provide greater schedule certainty for export consignments. This can allow shippers to better coordinate factory dispatches, inland container movements, customs processes and vessel cut-off requirements at JN Port. The development also builds on efforts by JNPA and CONCOR to improve rail connectivity between northern India and JN Port through the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor. Earlier this year, the two organisations held a trade interaction in Ludhiana with exporters, importers, shipping lines, container train operators and logistics companies to discuss the expanded rail connection. For cargo owners, a scheduled rail service can improve planning beyond simply reducing transit time. More consistent movement between an inland container depot and the port can help exporters manage inventory, container positioning and port delivery windows while reducing exposure to delays on long-distance road movements. ICD Dhandari Kalan is strategically positioned on the rail network serving Punjab and neighbouring states. JNPA identifies the Ludhiana facility as an important inland container location serving exporters and importers across Punjab as well as nearby regions. The shift toward scheduled rail services also supports greater use of multimodal transport for export cargo. Moving containers by rail over long distances can reduce reliance on road haulage for the inland leg, while giving exporters another option for connecting production centres with maritime services. The Ludhiana–JN Port link is particularly relevant for North India's export supply chain because cargo from manufacturing clusters must travel considerable distances before reaching a maritime gateway. Improving the reliability of that inland leg can have a direct bearing on overall shipment planning, port connectivity and logistics costs. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
Saudia Cargo and Riyadh Cargo announced the signing of an interline agreement that will strengthen cargo connectivity, expand network reach, and provide customers with greater access to international markets via Saudi Arabia. The agreement brings together the complementary strengths of both carriers, combining Saudia Cargo’s established cargo presence and expertise with Riyadh Cargo’s expanding global network and digitally native operating model. The arrangement will also support the continued expansion of Riyadh Cargo’s network beyond current direct services to London, Dubai, Cairo, Jeddah, Madrid, and Malaga, while strengthening connectivity to upcoming destinations including Mumbai, Kuala Lumpur, and Dhaka. This collaboration supports Riyadh Cargo long-term ambition to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030. Eng. Mansour Alasmi, VP - Network & Revenue, Saudia Cargo, praised this collaboration stating: “By combining Saudia Cargo's established expertise and global capabilities with Riyadh Cargo's future ambitions, we will provide our customers with more integrated solutions to facilitate trade. This aligns with our joint efforts to transform the Kingdom into a premier global logistics hub, while driving sustainable growth for both organizations. Pravin Singh, VP - Cargo, Riyadh Air, said, “As Riyadh Air builds a global airline from the heart of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh Cargo has a clear ambition to become a modern, digitally enabled, and reliable cargo business serving customers across key international markets. This agreement supports that ambition by extending our reach, opening new trade opportunities, and helping position Riyadh as an important gateway in the future of global logistics.” Hence, by expanding available cargo capacity and improving the flow of goods across international markets, the agreement will give freight forwarders and logistics partners more efficient and reliable cargo solutions, while extending both carriers’ network reach beyond their own operations. The partnership also supports Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a leading global logistics hub, in line with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030 by strengthening the Kingdom’s global connectivity and reinforcing Riyadh and Jeddah as complementary gateways for trade. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Blue Dart has completed 30 years of aviation operations, marking a significant milestone for the express logistics company as it continues to expand its air cargo network across India. Since 1996, the company has operated more than 2.15 lakh flights and transported over 20.5 lakh tonnes of air cargo, underscoring the scale of its dedicated air express network. The aviation division forms a key part of Blue Dart’s integrated logistics infrastructure, supporting time-definite deliveries and enabling nationwide connectivity for businesses and consumers. Over the past three decades, Blue Dart’s air network has played an important role in serving a broad range of industries, including life sciences, banking and financial services, manufacturing, automotive, e-commerce and small and medium-sized enterprises. The company said its aviation capabilities have contributed to improved supply chain efficiency and strengthened logistics connectivity across the country. The network also supported the movement of critical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccines, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essential goods, helping maintain the flow of healthcare and emergency shipments during a period of severe disruption. Commenting on the milestone, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director of Blue Dart Express Limited, said the company’s aviation infrastructure has been instrumental in supporting next-day and under-24-hour delivery services across India. “Blue Dart’s aviation capability has strengthened the speed, reliability and certainty that customers associate with the brand, while connecting businesses, markets and communities,” Manuel said. Today, Blue Dart operates a dedicated fleet of eight Boeing 737 and 757 freighter aircraft. The fleet serves as a critical component of the company’s logistics network, facilitating the movement of shipments between major metropolitan centres and emerging economic hubs. Capt. Nikhil B. Ved, Managing Director of Blue Dart Aviation Limited, said the milestone reflects the company’s long-standing role in supporting India’s air express logistics network. “The journey has been defined by operational excellence, safety and a relentless focus on customer needs. As we enter the next decade, our focus remains on strengthening capabilities and building a future-ready aviation network,” Ved said. Looking ahead, the company said it will focus on strengthening network resilience, improving operational efficiency and expanding the use of technology and automation across its aviation operations. These efforts are expected to support growing cargo demand and the evolving requirements of India’s logistics sector as the country continues to expand its economic footprint. As Blue Dart enters the fourth decade of its aviation business, the company remains focused on enhancing air cargo capabilities and supporting faster, more reliable movement of goods across domestic markets. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is set to significantly strengthen its air cargo capabilities through a major infrastructure expansion project that will feature advanced automation technology from Lödige Industries. The airport is investing more than $300 million in a new cargo terminal designed to enhance handling capacity, improve operational efficiency, and support future growth in air freight volumes. The new facility forms part of SFO’s long-term strategy to modernize its cargo infrastructure and reinforce its position as one of the leading air cargo gateways on the U.S. West Coast. With global air freight demand expected to continue growing, the airport is focusing on automation-driven solutions that can streamline cargo flows while maximizing available space and resources. Under the project, Lödige Industries has been selected to provide customized automated cargo handling systems for the terminal. The company will deploy technologies that enable automated storage and retrieval, high-throughput cargo processing, and optimized cargo movement across the facility. The systems are expected to reduce manual handling requirements, improve turnaround times, and increase overall terminal productivity. According to industry reports, the terminal has been designed to accommodate rising cargo volumes while supporting the operational needs of airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics service providers operating through SFO. The integration of advanced automation is also expected to improve cargo visibility and handling accuracy, helping stakeholders manage increasingly complex supply chains more efficiently. The investment reflects a broader trend across global airports, where digitalization and automation are becoming critical to addressing capacity constraints, labor challenges, and growing e-commerce demand. By incorporating automated technologies into its cargo operations, SFO aims to create a future-ready facility capable of supporting both current and emerging logistics requirements. Construction and implementation activities are expected to progress over the coming years, with the expanded cargo terminal anticipated to be operational by 2028. Once completed, the project is expected to deliver a substantial increase in cargo handling capacity while enhancing service reliability and operational resilience. For Lödige Industries, the contract further strengthens its footprint in the global air cargo sector, where automated storage, transport, and terminal management solutions are increasingly being adopted by airports seeking greater efficiency and scalability. The SFO project represents another milestone in the industry’s transition toward smart, technology-enabled cargo operations. As international trade and e-commerce continue to drive air freight demand, investments such as SFO’s automated cargo terminal are likely to play a crucial role in ensuring airports can meet future logistics and supply chain requirements efficiently and sustainably. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Chapman Freeborn has successfully completed a time-sensitive cargo charter operation transporting oversized oilfield equipment from China to Saudi Arabia, supporting urgent replenishment requirements for a client in the oil and gas sector amid ongoing global shipping disruptions and airfreight congestion. The operation involved the movement of nearly 90 tonnes of cargo, including industrial pumps, precision spare parts and oversized equipment measuring up to eight metres in length. The shipment was transported aboard a Boeing 747 Freighter, selected for its main-deck capacity and ability to handle heavy and outsized freight. The project required complex logistical coordination after fuelling constraints at the original departure airport necessitated the cargo’s relocation inland to an alternative airport. Chapman Freeborn’s China team arranged overnight trucking and managed the freight forwarding process to maintain delivery timelines. The charter operation was further challenged by limited aircraft availability, routing restrictions and slot coordination requirements at destination. Despite the operational complexities, the cargo arrived on schedule, enabling uninterrupted onward movement and preventing disruptions to the client’s ongoing field operations. The project highlights the growing role of specialised air charter solutions in supporting critical industrial supply chains where speed, flexibility and operational coordination remain essential.
India is preparing to operationalise its trade agreement with Oman from June 1, as New Delhi accelerates efforts to secure alternative trade corridors and strengthen supply chain resilience amid continuing geopolitical and energy market uncertainty. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said discussions with Omani officials have progressed positively, with both sides moving toward implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The agreement, signed in December 2025, is expected to provide duty-free access for a large share of Indian exports to Oman, including engineering goods, textiles, food products and chemicals. In return, India will lower tariffs on several Omani exports, including petrochemical products and minerals. Trade and logistics stakeholders view the pact as strategically important for India’s westbound cargo movement and regional connectivity ambitions. Oman’s geographic position along major maritime routes in the Arabian Sea and Gulf region gives Indian exporters an additional gateway into West Asia and parts of Africa. The agreement is also expected to support warehousing, port-led trade and multimodal logistics integration between the two countries. Government officials indicated that the CEPA would cover more than 98% of Indian export tariff lines entering Oman, while India would gradually liberalise access across a significant portion of imports from Oman. Certain sectors, particularly petrochemicals, may see phased tariff reductions rather than immediate elimination. The push to activate the Oman pact comes as India expands its broader trade strategy through multiple bilateral agreements aimed at reducing dependence on concentrated supply chains and improving market access for domestic manufacturers. Recent discussions involving trade arrangements with the UK, EU and other partners have reinforced New Delhi’s emphasis on export diversification and trade-led industrial growth. Industry analysts expect the Oman agreement to particularly benefit Indian sectors linked to containerised exports, chemicals, automotive components, processed foods and MSME manufacturing clusters. Shipping and logistics companies are also likely to see increased cargo flows through western Indian ports as bilateral trade volumes rise under preferential tariff treatment. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
India’s two largest container gateways, Mundra and Nhava Sheva, are facing mounting congestion as rising cargo volumes, truck driver shortages and rerouted shipments from the Middle East strain operations across the country’s logistics network. Shipping lines and logistics operators are reporting worsening turnaround times at both ports, with vessel delays averaging nearly two and a half days and some unscheduled ships waiting up to five days for berthing. The disruptions are slowing cargo movement, tightening yard space and forcing carriers to make last-minute operational changes. According to industry reports, a shortage of truck drivers has become a major bottleneck for container transfers between terminals and inland transport hubs. The issue has reduced the pace of cargo evacuation from ports, adding pressure on already crowded container yards. Terminal operators have intermittently restricted gate access to control container inflow, while export gate schedules continue to shift frequently. These changes are complicating truck planning and increasing uncertainty for exporters and freight forwarders. The congestion is being intensified by cargo diversions linked to disruptions in the Middle East, particularly around Gulf trade routes. Shipping lines have increasingly redirected transshipment cargo to Indian ports as alternatives to facilities in the Persian Gulf, sharply increasing container volumes in recent weeks. The pressure has begun affecting carrier schedules. Some shipping companies are rerouting vessels between terminals at short notice to avoid yard congestion. Danish shipping giant Maersk recently shifted several sailings from its regular terminal at Nhava Sheva to PSA Mumbai after facing space constraints and a growing container backlog. Industry stakeholders say these sudden terminal changes are creating operational and financial challenges for shippers, including higher handling costs and difficulties coordinating customs clearance and inland transportation. The latest disruption comes at a time when India has been positioning itself as a major global manufacturing and logistics hub. Over the past decade, the country has expanded port capacity, improved freight corridors and modernised customs processes to strengthen supply chain efficiency. However, the current congestion highlights the vulnerability of port infrastructure during periods of sudden trade realignment and geopolitical disruption. Logistics experts warn that prolonged delays could increase freight costs, extend delivery timelines and place additional pressure on exporters already dealing with volatile global shipping conditions. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
The diversification process by Apple continues to progress as India becomes one of the centers for manufacturing operations. Based on an analysis by Smart Analytics Global (SAG), the percentage share of Indian manufacturing of iPhones has increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025 and further to 28% by 2026, whereas China’s share has decreased from 83% to 74% within the same timeframe. As Apple continues to lower its reliance on China, India is all set to emerge as the major assembly hub for 28 percent of all iPhones exported around the world by 2026, compared to just 23 percent in the prior year. This change is due to the company's overall strategy of spreading its manufacturing operations in order to mitigate potential tariff risks and geopolitical risks, in addition to creating a more flexible manufacturing network beyond China. Based on the estimates of Smart Analytics Global (SAG), China's share in global iPhone production dropped from 83% in 2024 to 74% in 2025, while India's share increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025. Estimates provided by another market research firm, Counterpoint Research, indicate that India's share in global iPhone manufacturing could increase to approximately 26% in 2026 from 23% in 2025. As per SAG, “India will account for the manufacture of 28 percent of iPhones shipped globally in 2026, rising from 23 percent in 2025. This growth will be fueled by the ongoing diversification of Apple outside China and capacity build-up at existing manufacturers in India like Tata Electronics,” said Abhilash Kumar, an analyst at Smart Analytics Global. According to Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research, “Apple's manufacturing partners have substantially increased their manufacturing capacities and assembly lines in India. They have also diversified their product portfolio made in India.” He further stated that the increase in manufacturing capacity of Tata Electronics is another factor aiding the growth. Apple has managed to localize production substantially in India through manufacturers like Foxconn and Tata Electronics. The recent takeover of Wistron and Pegatron in India by the Tata Group represents a huge step forward in Apple’s localization efforts in India. At present, India is assembling a larger number of iPhones, even the latest versions, and has become an important source of exports, targeting countries like the US and European nations. Over the past five years, Apple has manufactured iPhones worth almost $70 billion in India using its PLI scheme, where around $51 billion, or almost 73% of all iPhones manufactured, were exported from India. Moreover, iPhones have become the most exported goods from India during the previous financial year. India has become the biggest beneficiary of Apple’s changing supply chain. From initially assembling iPhones on a smaller scale, it has grown to become a manufacturing cluster for iPhones through government incentives, increased manufacturing capabilities, and the growing presence of suppliers. Several of the most important suppliers and manufacturers for Apple are still highly entrenched within China, allowing the country to enjoy an unrivaled capacity and adaptability when it comes to managing mass-scale productions and product shifts. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
Shadowfax is significantly expanding its quick commerce infrastructure, announcing plans to scale its dark store network from 15 facilities to 100 by FY27. The move underscores the company’s growing focus on hyperlocal deliveries, same-day fulfilment, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) logistics as competition intensifies in India’s fast-evolving quick commerce ecosystem. The Bengaluru-based company plans to add 85 new dark stores over the next fiscal year, targeting metro cities with delivery radiuses of approximately seven kilometres and fulfilment timelines of around 30 minutes. The expansion is expected to support rising demand from vertical quick commerce platforms and D2C brands that increasingly rely on third-party logistics (3PL) partners for rapid deliveries. According to company executives, vertical marketplaces are emerging as a profitable segment because of their dependence on outsourced logistics infrastructure rather than captive fulfilment networks. Shadowfax believes this trend creates a strong opportunity for scalable 3PL-led quick commerce models. The dark store expansion will account for nearly 10% of Shadowfax’s planned capital expenditure of ₹180–190 crore in FY27. The company is simultaneously strengthening its automation and artificial intelligence capabilities to improve operational efficiency. AI-led demand forecasting, automated slotting, and smarter sorting centre operations are expected to reduce overhead costs while accelerating breakeven timelines for new facilities. Shadowfax’s aggressive expansion comes on the back of strong financial performance. The company reported a consolidated net profit of ₹55.8 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to a net loss of ₹9.9 crore during the same period last year. Revenue from operations surged 73.6% year-on-year to ₹1,237 crore, reflecting growing order volumes and increased adoption of quick commerce delivery services. Founded in 2015, Shadowfax has evolved into one of India’s largest logistics and last-mile delivery networks, serving over 2,500 cities and more than 15,000 pincodes. The company currently handles millions of shipments daily through a technology-driven delivery ecosystem that supports e-commerce, grocery, hyperlocal, and D2C brands. Industry analysts believe the dark store expansion reflects a broader shift within India’s logistics sector, where speed, proximity-based fulfilment, and automated operations are becoming central to supply chain competitiveness. As quick commerce adoption accelerates beyond groceries into categories such as fashion, electronics, and personal care, logistics providers like Shadowfax are positioning themselves as critical enablers of ultra-fast retail fulfilment. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
India’s Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) are rapidly reshaping the country’s logistics landscape, with the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) between Dadri and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) emerging as a game-changing infrastructure project for supply chains and multimodal freight movement. Designed exclusively for cargo operations, the corridor is significantly reducing transit times, improving reliability, and easing congestion on conventional rail routes. Stretching nearly 1,500 km from Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to JNPA near Mumbai, the corridor forms the backbone of India’s western logistics artery, connecting manufacturing centres, inland container depots, industrial clusters, and ports. With dedicated tracks for freight trains, the network allows uninterrupted cargo movement at higher average speeds, eliminating delays caused by mixed passenger and freight operations. One of the biggest outcomes has been a sharp reduction in transit time. Freight movement between Dadri and JNPA that traditionally took close to 72 hours on congested rail routes is now being completed in nearly half the time, improving turnaround efficiency for exporters, importers, and logistics operators. Industry stakeholders believe the reduction in transit duration will strengthen India’s competitiveness in global trade and support the government’s target of lowering logistics costs as a percentage of GDP. The DFC network has also enabled the operation of longer and heavier freight trains, including double-stack container services on electrified routes. This has increased carrying capacity while lowering per-unit transportation costs. According to sector estimates, rail freight on dedicated corridors is considerably more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable than road transport, aligning with India’s broader decarbonisation goals. Beyond operational efficiency, the corridors are catalysing the growth of integrated logistics ecosystems. Regions such as Dadri, Greater Noida, and Jewar are witnessing accelerated development of multimodal logistics parks, warehousing zones, and industrial hubs due to their strategic connectivity with both the Eastern and Western DFCs. The emerging “rail-road-air” logistics triangle around the National Capital Region is expected to attract substantial investments in manufacturing and distribution infrastructure. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has reported rising freight train volumes on the operational stretches, indicating growing industry adoption. The completion of key links on the western corridor is expected to further enhance throughput and reduce dependency on road transport for long-haul cargo. Analysts say the dedicated rail network could become central to India’s ambition of creating faster, greener, and more resilient supply chains. As India continues investing in additional freight corridors across the country, the success of the Dadri-JNPA route demonstrates how infrastructure modernisation can directly influence trade efficiency, logistics performance, and industrial growth. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬
In a strategic warehousing move, the South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), the second largest coal-producing subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) for collaboration in coal logistics, railway rake provisioning under GPWIS and similar schemes, and integrated transportation services. Guided by the Union Ministry of Coal, SECL is rapidly working to improve India’s energy security and coal logistics infrastructure. The company is taking steps to boost coal evacuation efficiency and ensure a steady fuel supply to essential sectors. This partnership with CWC is a significant move in that direction. The goal of the partnership with CWC is to strengthen SECL’s coal evacuation capabilities by providing reliable and efficient rail logistics solutions to meet the rising demand from the power, steel, cement, and other sectors. The MoU outlines collaboration in various areas, including dedicated railway rake operations, integrated coal transportation solutions, multimodal logistics, first-mile and last-mile connectivity, and the deployment of digital systems for logistics monitoring and operational efficiency. Under the agreed framework, both organizations will explore provisioning and operation of GPWIS and equivalent racks, integrated rail logistics services, and long-term transportation solutions aimed at improving dispatch efficiency and reducing logistical obstacles. The MoU was signed in the presence of Harish Duhan, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of SECL, and Santosh Sinha, Managing Director of CWC. Functional Directors and senior officials from SECL, as well as representatives from CWC, attended the signing ceremony. SECL plays a vital role in meeting the country's growing coal demand. In the current financial year 2026-27, Coal India Limited has already surpassed the 100 million tonne production mark, with SECL contributing more than 26.8 million tonnes. Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC), a Navaratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Government of India, is a leader in integrated logistics and warehousing services. It has extensive experience in rail-linked cargo movement and multimodal transportation solutions. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
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India’s two largest container gateways, Mundra and Nhava Sheva, are facing mounting congestion as rising cargo volumes, truck driver shortages and rerouted shipments from the Middle East strain operations across the country’s logistics network. Shipping lines and logistics operators are reporting worsening turnaround times at both ports, with vessel delays averaging nearly two and a half days and some unscheduled ships waiting up to five days for berthing. The disruptions are slowing cargo movement, tightening yard space and forcing carriers to make last-minute operational changes. According to industry reports, a shortage of truck drivers has become a major bottleneck for container transfers between terminals and inland transport hubs. The issue has reduced the pace of cargo evacuation from ports, adding pressure on already crowded container yards. Terminal operators have intermittently restricted gate access to control container inflow, while export gate schedules continue to shift frequently. These changes are complicating truck planning and increasing uncertainty for exporters and freight forwarders. The congestion is being intensified by cargo diversions linked to disruptions in the Middle East, particularly around Gulf trade routes. Shipping lines have increasingly redirected transshipment cargo to Indian ports as alternatives to facilities in the Persian Gulf, sharply increasing container volumes in recent weeks. The pressure has begun affecting carrier schedules. Some shipping companies are rerouting vessels between terminals at short notice to avoid yard congestion. Danish shipping giant Maersk recently shifted several sailings from its regular terminal at Nhava Sheva to PSA Mumbai after facing space constraints and a growing container backlog. Industry stakeholders say these sudden terminal changes are creating operational and financial challenges for shippers, including higher handling costs and difficulties coordinating customs clearance and inland transportation. The latest disruption comes at a time when India has been positioning itself as a major global manufacturing and logistics hub. Over the past decade, the country has expanded port capacity, improved freight corridors and modernised customs processes to strengthen supply chain efficiency. However, the current congestion highlights the vulnerability of port infrastructure during periods of sudden trade realignment and geopolitical disruption. Logistics experts warn that prolonged delays could increase freight costs, extend delivery timelines and place additional pressure on exporters already dealing with volatile global shipping conditions. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
The diversification process by Apple continues to progress as India becomes one of the centers for manufacturing operations. Based on an analysis by Smart Analytics Global (SAG), the percentage share of Indian manufacturing of iPhones has increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025 and further to 28% by 2026, whereas China’s share has decreased from 83% to 74% within the same timeframe. As Apple continues to lower its reliance on China, India is all set to emerge as the major assembly hub for 28 percent of all iPhones exported around the world by 2026, compared to just 23 percent in the prior year. This change is due to the company's overall strategy of spreading its manufacturing operations in order to mitigate potential tariff risks and geopolitical risks, in addition to creating a more flexible manufacturing network beyond China. Based on the estimates of Smart Analytics Global (SAG), China's share in global iPhone production dropped from 83% in 2024 to 74% in 2025, while India's share increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025. Estimates provided by another market research firm, Counterpoint Research, indicate that India's share in global iPhone manufacturing could increase to approximately 26% in 2026 from 23% in 2025. As per SAG, “India will account for the manufacture of 28 percent of iPhones shipped globally in 2026, rising from 23 percent in 2025. This growth will be fueled by the ongoing diversification of Apple outside China and capacity build-up at existing manufacturers in India like Tata Electronics,” said Abhilash Kumar, an analyst at Smart Analytics Global. According to Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research, “Apple's manufacturing partners have substantially increased their manufacturing capacities and assembly lines in India. They have also diversified their product portfolio made in India.” He further stated that the increase in manufacturing capacity of Tata Electronics is another factor aiding the growth. Apple has managed to localize production substantially in India through manufacturers like Foxconn and Tata Electronics. The recent takeover of Wistron and Pegatron in India by the Tata Group represents a huge step forward in Apple’s localization efforts in India. At present, India is assembling a larger number of iPhones, even the latest versions, and has become an important source of exports, targeting countries like the US and European nations. Over the past five years, Apple has manufactured iPhones worth almost $70 billion in India using its PLI scheme, where around $51 billion, or almost 73% of all iPhones manufactured, were exported from India. Moreover, iPhones have become the most exported goods from India during the previous financial year. India has become the biggest beneficiary of Apple’s changing supply chain. From initially assembling iPhones on a smaller scale, it has grown to become a manufacturing cluster for iPhones through government incentives, increased manufacturing capabilities, and the growing presence of suppliers. Several of the most important suppliers and manufacturers for Apple are still highly entrenched within China, allowing the country to enjoy an unrivaled capacity and adaptability when it comes to managing mass-scale productions and product shifts. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
Shadowfax is significantly expanding its quick commerce infrastructure, announcing plans to scale its dark store network from 15 facilities to 100 by FY27. The move underscores the company’s growing focus on hyperlocal deliveries, same-day fulfilment, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) logistics as competition intensifies in India’s fast-evolving quick commerce ecosystem. The Bengaluru-based company plans to add 85 new dark stores over the next fiscal year, targeting metro cities with delivery radiuses of approximately seven kilometres and fulfilment timelines of around 30 minutes. The expansion is expected to support rising demand from vertical quick commerce platforms and D2C brands that increasingly rely on third-party logistics (3PL) partners for rapid deliveries. According to company executives, vertical marketplaces are emerging as a profitable segment because of their dependence on outsourced logistics infrastructure rather than captive fulfilment networks. Shadowfax believes this trend creates a strong opportunity for scalable 3PL-led quick commerce models. The dark store expansion will account for nearly 10% of Shadowfax’s planned capital expenditure of ₹180–190 crore in FY27. The company is simultaneously strengthening its automation and artificial intelligence capabilities to improve operational efficiency. AI-led demand forecasting, automated slotting, and smarter sorting centre operations are expected to reduce overhead costs while accelerating breakeven timelines for new facilities. Shadowfax’s aggressive expansion comes on the back of strong financial performance. The company reported a consolidated net profit of ₹55.8 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to a net loss of ₹9.9 crore during the same period last year. Revenue from operations surged 73.6% year-on-year to ₹1,237 crore, reflecting growing order volumes and increased adoption of quick commerce delivery services. Founded in 2015, Shadowfax has evolved into one of India’s largest logistics and last-mile delivery networks, serving over 2,500 cities and more than 15,000 pincodes. The company currently handles millions of shipments daily through a technology-driven delivery ecosystem that supports e-commerce, grocery, hyperlocal, and D2C brands. Industry analysts believe the dark store expansion reflects a broader shift within India’s logistics sector, where speed, proximity-based fulfilment, and automated operations are becoming central to supply chain competitiveness. As quick commerce adoption accelerates beyond groceries into categories such as fashion, electronics, and personal care, logistics providers like Shadowfax are positioning themselves as critical enablers of ultra-fast retail fulfilment. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
India’s Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) are rapidly reshaping the country’s logistics landscape, with the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) between Dadri and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) emerging as a game-changing infrastructure project for supply chains and multimodal freight movement. Designed exclusively for cargo operations, the corridor is significantly reducing transit times, improving reliability, and easing congestion on conventional rail routes. Stretching nearly 1,500 km from Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to JNPA near Mumbai, the corridor forms the backbone of India’s western logistics artery, connecting manufacturing centres, inland container depots, industrial clusters, and ports. With dedicated tracks for freight trains, the network allows uninterrupted cargo movement at higher average speeds, eliminating delays caused by mixed passenger and freight operations. One of the biggest outcomes has been a sharp reduction in transit time. Freight movement between Dadri and JNPA that traditionally took close to 72 hours on congested rail routes is now being completed in nearly half the time, improving turnaround efficiency for exporters, importers, and logistics operators. Industry stakeholders believe the reduction in transit duration will strengthen India’s competitiveness in global trade and support the government’s target of lowering logistics costs as a percentage of GDP. The DFC network has also enabled the operation of longer and heavier freight trains, including double-stack container services on electrified routes. This has increased carrying capacity while lowering per-unit transportation costs. According to sector estimates, rail freight on dedicated corridors is considerably more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable than road transport, aligning with India’s broader decarbonisation goals. Beyond operational efficiency, the corridors are catalysing the growth of integrated logistics ecosystems. Regions such as Dadri, Greater Noida, and Jewar are witnessing accelerated development of multimodal logistics parks, warehousing zones, and industrial hubs due to their strategic connectivity with both the Eastern and Western DFCs. The emerging “rail-road-air” logistics triangle around the National Capital Region is expected to attract substantial investments in manufacturing and distribution infrastructure. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has reported rising freight train volumes on the operational stretches, indicating growing industry adoption. The completion of key links on the western corridor is expected to further enhance throughput and reduce dependency on road transport for long-haul cargo. Analysts say the dedicated rail network could become central to India’s ambition of creating faster, greener, and more resilient supply chains. As India continues investing in additional freight corridors across the country, the success of the Dadri-JNPA route demonstrates how infrastructure modernisation can directly influence trade efficiency, logistics performance, and industrial growth. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬
In a strategic warehousing move, the South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), the second largest coal-producing subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) for collaboration in coal logistics, railway rake provisioning under GPWIS and similar schemes, and integrated transportation services. Guided by the Union Ministry of Coal, SECL is rapidly working to improve India’s energy security and coal logistics infrastructure. The company is taking steps to boost coal evacuation efficiency and ensure a steady fuel supply to essential sectors. This partnership with CWC is a significant move in that direction. The goal of the partnership with CWC is to strengthen SECL’s coal evacuation capabilities by providing reliable and efficient rail logistics solutions to meet the rising demand from the power, steel, cement, and other sectors. The MoU outlines collaboration in various areas, including dedicated railway rake operations, integrated coal transportation solutions, multimodal logistics, first-mile and last-mile connectivity, and the deployment of digital systems for logistics monitoring and operational efficiency. Under the agreed framework, both organizations will explore provisioning and operation of GPWIS and equivalent racks, integrated rail logistics services, and long-term transportation solutions aimed at improving dispatch efficiency and reducing logistical obstacles. The MoU was signed in the presence of Harish Duhan, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of SECL, and Santosh Sinha, Managing Director of CWC. Functional Directors and senior officials from SECL, as well as representatives from CWC, attended the signing ceremony. SECL plays a vital role in meeting the country's growing coal demand. In the current financial year 2026-27, Coal India Limited has already surpassed the 100 million tonne production mark, with SECL contributing more than 26.8 million tonnes. Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC), a Navaratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Government of India, is a leader in integrated logistics and warehousing services. It has extensive experience in rail-linked cargo movement and multimodal transportation solutions. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
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Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
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