The Container Freight Station (CFS) of Allcargo Logistics at Adani Ports & SEZ (Mundra) is celebrating its 15 years of service to the EXIM trade. To commemorate the glorious occasion, a glittering function was organised at a hotel in Gandhidham, Kachchh. T V Ravi, IRS, Commissioner of Customs Kandla and Mundra, graced the event as the Chief Guest.
While addressing the audience, T V Ravi elaborated on the role of the CFS as one of the key links in the supply chain management. It helps in keeping the ports de-congested thus facilitating faster clearance of cargo. He encouraged all the CFSs to implement the ease of doing business, faceless clearance and other initiatives of the government of India.
Apart from senior customs officials, other dignitaries who were present at the event included Douglas Charles Smith, CEO- Mundra and Tuna Ports of AP&SEZ, senior port officials of DP World and AP&SEZ Limited, office bearers of the Customs Brokers Associations of Mundra and Kandla, representatives from shipping liners, vendors and employees.
While addressing the audience, Suresh Kumar, CEO of Allcargo Logistics Limited, reiterated the commitment of the CFS in Mundra to adhering to the directions put forth by the honourable Commissioner of Customs.
“It’s moment of pride for all of us. Our state-of-the-art CFS at Mundra is one of the finest in India. We have achieved success at the CFS because of our extremely talented, dedicated and diligent team at Mundra and continued support from all stakeholders including customers. With their support and our progressive outlook, we look forward to the next phase of growth. Thanks to progressive and transformative government initiative like PM Gati Shakti - National Master Plan, the logistics industry as a whole will adopt an integrated approach to scale greater heights,” said Kumar.
Elaborating on the myCFS app of Allcargo, Kumar said, “With this advanced digital portal, we have introduced swift, efficient, contactless CFS services at Mundra as well as across India. Through this service, we offer our customers facilities to upload documents in advance, schedule gate-in and gate-out, access invoices and reports, avail updates, provide shipping bill declaration, confirm prior scheduling of carting vehicles etc. With myCFS portal, we have been offering our customers an unmatched service experience. The CFS services are aligned with the evolving supply chain requirements.”
The highlight of the evening was the felicitation of more than 12 women for their contribution to the shipping industry. They were acknowledged as ‘women in logistics’and handed over plaques as a token of appreciation for their work over the years in the local markets. Several top customers of Allcargo Mundra CFSwere felicitated with certificates of appreciation and mementoes.
The Mundra CFS which started its operations in 2007 is spread over an area of 16 acres with annual container handling capacity of about 75, 000 TEU. With almost 43, 000 m2 of paved yard and 12, 210 m2 of warehouse, it is one of the eight CFSs located on a single road called Bharat CFS Zone-1 of the AP&SEZ in Mundra. The CFS currently handles around 5000 TEU of laden boxes per month with an import-export ratio of 4: 1.
The Allcargo Mundra CFS offers an advanced mobile app and a portal called myCFS to its customers for tracking locations of the containers in the yard. Customers can follow the gate-in status of containers either through this app or an SMS. The facility is equipped with the maximum number of handling equipment amongst all the CFSs at Mundra. It also offers warehousing facility, safe cargo storage and delivery services apart from a number of value-added services such as reefer monitoring, storage and handling of empty containers, etc. The CFS is AEO-certified and has RFID-tracking, ISO and OHSAS certificationsas well as C-TPAT certification.
Moreover, Allcargo Mundra CFS adheres to the GO GREEN initiatives. As part of that initiative, it uses eco- friendly solar power (cells installed on the warehouse rooftops) to reduce the carbon footprint. Under the NO PLASTIC drive, the facility uses only eco-friendly materials for all purposes.
Meanwhile, Allcargo’s Chennai CFS also completed 15 years in operation in April 2022.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
Singapore’s Changi Airport is sharpening its focus on pharmaceuticals and e-commerce shipments to navigate constrained cargo capacity until planned expansion in the 2030s. According to Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub and Cargo Development at Changi Airport Group, current facilities face mounting pressure due to growing regional demand, necessitating strategic tenant and cargo type management. E-commerce continues to be a key growth driver for air cargo globally, fueled by major players like Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop. At the same time, Singapore is solidifying its position as Southeast Asia’s preferred pharmaceutical hub, attracting investments from global biopharma giants such as Thermo Fisher, Sanofi, BioNTech, and MSD. Looking ahead, Changi Airport plans to launch a second logistics park by the 2030s, aiming to increase its annual cargo capacity from 3 million tons to 5.4 million tons. The new free trade zone will further expedite cargo handling and redistribution. In 2024, Changi Airport reported handling 1.99 million tons of airfreight, a 14.6% rise from 2023, driven by robust cross-border e-commerce demand, improved trade routes with China and the U.S., and recovering electronics exports. Top air cargo markets included China, Australia, the U.S., Hong Kong, and India.
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a multi-modal logistics hub (MMLH) in Greater Noida’s Dadri, investing Rs 7,064 crore to support its $1 trillion economy goal. This hub will cover 823 acres, with a core development area spanning 455 acres. Key developments include commercial and administrative facilities over 17.5 acres, a rail yard, and other projects across 350 acres. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, a detailed action plan has been designed to expedite these initiatives. The Dadri MMLH aims to become a world-class freight handling facility, functioning as a dry port to ensure the swift transit of goods and raw materials. This project is poised to be India's largest logistics hub. Located on the eastern and western dedicated freight corridors, it will serve as a central hub for container handling, warehousing, cold storage, processing, de-stuffing, stuffing, and value-added packing. Providing seamless rail connectivity, the hub will feature rail platforms, customs clearance facilities, cargo segregation areas, truck parking zones, and extensive green spaces. The project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, supervised by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and adhering to the guidelines of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has prepared the Master Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing the approach track and Rail Over Rail (ROR) bridge from New Dadri station to the MMLH boundary. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has approved the DPR for railway tracks and terminal stations within the MMLH. Additionally, the tender documentation for land acquisition and signaling processes for the approach track has been finalized. Concurrently, the development of trunk infrastructure, including boundary work, roads, canals, bridges, utility relocation, and water and power supply, is progressing through various phases.
A significant milestone has been achieved in the Indo-Bangla railway project with the inauguration of the inaugural freight train connecting Bangladesh's Gangasagar to Tripura's Nischintanpur. This momentous event marks a significant step forward in strengthening the rail connectivity between the two neighboring countries. The new railway connection is set to enhance trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh, providing a more efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation for goods. It will not only boost bilateral trade but also promote economic development in the region by opening up new opportunities for businesses and industries. The Indo-Bangla railway project is part of a broader effort to improve connectivity and foster closer ties between the two nations. It is expected to play a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both countries.
Leasing in the industrial and logistics (I&L) sector reached an all-time high of 39.5 million square feet in CY 2024 across the top eight cities, a remarkable milestone driven by a substantial supply addition of 38.6 million square feet, according to the latest report by CBRE South Asia Pvt Ltd, titled ‘CBRE Industrial & Logistics Figures H2 2024.’ The report emphasises the continued momentum in leasing, with strong activity across various regions. Notably, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Kolkata were the leading contributors, together accounting for almost 60 per cent of the total leasing activity during the year. Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru stood out in terms of supply addition, collectively contributing to over half of the new space in CY 2024. The report identifies third-party logistics (3PL) players as the dominant force in space take-up, with these firms accounting for 41 per cent of the leasing activity. Additionally, engineering and manufacturing companies maintained a strong presence, with an 18 per cent share in the overall space absorption. Interestingly, the space uptake was predominantly driven by smaller transactions, with those under 50,000 square feet representing 43 per cent of the total leasing volume. Medium-sized transactions (ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 square feet) and larger transactions (exceeding 100,000 square feet) each comprised 28 per cent of the total activity. Anshuman Magazine, Chairman and CEO of CBRE for India, Southeast Asia, Middle East & Africa, highlighted the resilience of the I&L sector amidst global economic uncertainties, predicting further growth in 2025. He anticipates that in-city warehousing and the quick-commerce model will play an increasingly significant role, with Delhi-NCR, Kolkata, and Bengaluru expected to lead the absorption trends in the coming year.
Logistics solutions provider UPS has announced the launch of its specialised healthcare-focused cross-docking facility in Hyderabad, aimed at revolutionising the logistics of the Indian pharmaceutical sector. Designed with a strong emphasis on the unique needs of pharma customers, this state-of-the-art facility integrates global freight forwarding capabilities, underscoring UPS's commitment to the healthcare industry. The facility boasts advanced temperature control systems, ensuring sensitive pharmaceutical products are stored and transported within their specified temperature ranges to maintain efficacy and safety. According to UPS, the facility can securely handle and sort 15 pallets at +15°C to +25°C, 7 pallets at +2°C to +8°C, and 50 pallets under uncontrolled ambient conditions. This capability significantly enhances the efficiency of pharma companies by minimising the need for prolonged warehouse storage. Moreover, the facility acts as a safety net for critical shipments, ensuring that vital products remain protected even during contingency situations. Grégory Goba-Blé, Head of UPS India and Director of MOVIN Express, emphasised the importance of innovative logistics in the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, stating, “With India at the forefront of the healthcare industry, we’re committed to simplifying logistics for our customers.” UPS Healthcare operates with a robust team of over 10,000 healthcare logistics experts across 216 facilities, totaling 17 million square feet of cGMP and GDP-compliant healthcare distribution space. Recently, the company also launched UPS Premier in India, a cutting-edge service that prioritizes and tracks critical shipments within 3 meters globally. Arnab Bhattacharya, Country Manager for UPS Healthcare in India, expressed enthusiasm about the new facility, highlighting its unparalleled security and efficiency: “We are really the only solution out there that can take care of the full, end-to-end supply chain.”
The Adani Group has announced a significant investment of $10 billion in Vietnam, marking a major expansion of its international operations. This investment underscores the group's strategic focus on global growth and diversifying its business interests beyond India. The planned investment will be directed towards developing infrastructure, including ports, logistics, and power generation, aligning with Vietnam's ambitious plans to boost its economic infrastructure. The move is part of Adani’s broader strategy to tap into emerging markets and enhance its global footprint. Adani Group’s commitment to Vietnam involves several key projects. This includes the development of industrial parks and logistics hubs that will facilitate enhanced connectivity and trade efficiency. Additionally, the group plans to invest in renewable energy projects to support Vietnam's transition towards sustainable energy sources. Vietnam's strategic location and growing economy present a promising opportunity for Adani, which has already established a robust presence in various sectors within India. The investment is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for both countries, fostering greater bilateral trade and investment relations. This announcement aligns with Adani's ongoing efforts to expand its international portfolio and leverage growth opportunities in emerging markets. The group has previously made similar investments in countries across Asia and Africa, reflecting its commitment to becoming a global leader in infrastructure and logistics. The Vietnamese government has welcomed the investment, recognising the potential for increased economic activity and job creation. As Adani moves forward with these projects, it aims to strengthen its position as a key player in the global infrastructure landscape while contributing to Vietnam's economic development.
