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India and the European Union (EU) have launched an industry coalition to develop a green shipping corridor between the two markets, marking a significant step towards cleaner maritime trade and the adoption of low-emission fuels. The initiative was announced during the third edition of Sagar Manthan 2026 and aims to bring industry stakeholders together to advance greener maritime routes and supporting infrastructure. Shipping Secretary Vijay Kumar said the coalition would help translate cooperation between India and the EU into practical industry partnerships focused on cleaner maritime operations. The initiative comes at a time when the global shipping sector is navigating geopolitical disruptions, supply-chain vulnerabilities, climate pressures and rapid technological changes. The coalition is expected to provide a platform for companies and other stakeholders to collaborate on the development of green shipping infrastructure, alternative fuels and lower-emission maritime trade routes. Greater international cooperation and private investment will be critical to building resilient maritime supply chains while enabling emerging economies to participate in the global transition towards cleaner energy. As part of its broader maritime decarbonisation strategy, India is also targeting a substantial increase in renewable energy use at its major ports. The country plans to raise the share of renewable energy in the overall energy consumption of major ports to more than 60% by 2030 and above 90% by 2047. The transition is also extending to harbour craft. Diesel-powered harbour tugs are being progressively replaced with green-powered vessels, while Deendayal Port at Kandla, Paradip Port and V.O. Chidambaranar Port at Tuticorin have been identified as green hydrogen hubs. These ports are being positioned to support the production, storage and bunkering of cleaner fuels, including green hydrogen. The green shipping corridor initiative also aligns with India's wider plans to expand maritime infrastructure and capacity. The government is targeting total port capacity of 10 billion tonnes annually by 2047. Major ports handled more than 915 million tonnes of cargo in 2025-26, compared with 581 million tonnes in 2014-15. Cargo transported through national waterways has also increased substantially, reaching 218 million tonnes from 18 million tonnes in 2013-14. The India-EU green shipping corridor could therefore serve as a framework for aligning cleaner fuels, port infrastructure, vessel operations and international trade. By bringing industry participation into the decarbonisation process, the coalition could help accelerate investment and create commercially viable pathways for lower-emission shipping between India and Europe. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP Cargo) is expanding its global freighter network for the 2026/27 winter season, adding Cairo in Egypt as a new dedicated cargo destination while strengthening capacity across key international markets. The winter schedule will run from October 25, 2026 to March 27, 2027. The new Cairo service will be operated by Air France using Boeing 777F freighters, with three flights per week. The service will establish a dedicated main-deck cargo connection between Europe and North Africa, providing capacity that operates independently of passenger flight schedules. The addition is expected to improve connectivity for freight moving between European markets and Egypt, while giving shippers greater access to the wider AFKLMP Cargo network through its Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Schiphol hubs. AFKLMP Cargo plans to serve 14 freighter destinations, 112 wide-body belly destinations worldwide and 54 European destinations during the winter season. The network will combine dedicated freighter capacity with wide-body and narrow-body belly operations, supported by intra-European trucking and interline partnerships. The carrier is also making changes to its Indian freighter operations. Air France Cargo will shift its freighter services from Mumbai Airport to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI), with two weekly Boeing 777F flights planned during the winter schedule. The move adds a new dimension to AFKLMP Cargo’s India network as Navi Mumbai develops its international cargo operations. Meanwhile, KLM/Martinair will continue its Boeing 747 freighter network from Amsterdam to markets across the Americas, Africa and Asia. Services to Seoul will operate three times a week, comprising one standalone flight and two services combined with Hong Kong, increasing dedicated capacity on the Seoul route. Beyond freighter operations, AFKLMP Cargo will expand its wide-body belly network from Paris. Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic will be introduced with three weekly Boeing 777-300ER services from November, while Malé in the Maldives will receive two weekly Airbus A350-900 services from December. Seasonal services to Ottawa and Barbados will also return. Pierre-Olivier Bandet, Executive Vice President Cargo at Air France-KLM, said the winter period presents demanding requirements for customers, particularly during the year-end peak and the flower season ahead of Valentine’s Day. He added that the combination of dedicated main-deck capacity and extensive belly networks through Paris and Amsterdam would provide customers with greater flexibility and choice. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
SATS and Aeropuerto Internacional de Tocumen, S.A. (PTY), the operator of Panama's Tocumen International Airport, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore strategic collaboration opportunities to strengthen air cargo connectivity and support the development of Panama as a leading logistics gateway for the Americas. Under the MoU, SATS and PTY will explore opportunities in cargo area development at the Tocumen International Airport and air cargo handling facilities and operations within Tocumen Cargo City, in line with the airport’s master plan. The partnership will also draw on SATS’ global air cargo handling expertise and network to support trade flows through Panama. Building on Panama’s and Singapore’s vital roles in global trade and logistics, this partnership seeks to leverage the strengths of both hubs to deepen trade connectivity, develop new cargo flows and support the growing movement of goods between Asia and the Americas. Such collaboration, together with the future development of Tocumen’s cargo precinct, will likely support the creation of new jobs within the airport ecosystem. Kerry Mok, President and Chief Executive Officer of SATS Ltd., stated: “Singapore’s development as a leading trade and logistics hub has been built on strong partnerships across the aviation and supply chain ecosystem. Drawing on our experience across major cargo gateways and our global network of over 225 stations in 27 countries, SATS is pleased to partner PTY as it advances its vision for Panama. Together, we will explore opportunities to strengthen cargo capabilities, improve the movement of goods and support growing trade between Asia and the Americas.” Jose Ruiz Blanco, General Manager of Tocumen International Airport, said: “Panama and Singapore share a natural role as strategic gateways for global trade and connectivity. Having seen Singapore’s logistics development firsthand, I understand the value that a long-term vision has brought to its growth. This understanding with SATS gives us an opportunity to explore new capabilities for Tocumen, strengthen our cargo platform and expand trade connectivity between Asia and the Americas.” 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of the Integrated Transport & Logistics Authority (ITLA) as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to bring greater coordination and multimodal integration to India’s transport and logistics infrastructure planning. The decision, announced on October 6, 2026 is aimed at addressing fragmented planning and implementation across multiple ministries and agencies. ITLA will function as the national apex institution for integrated transport and logistics planning, research, project appraisal, monitoring, policy support and data analytics. A key mandate will be the preparation of a National Transport Master Plan with a planning horizon of 10 years or more. The plan will cover roads, railways, ports and shipping, civil aviation, inland waterways, coastal shipping, urban mobility and logistics. The authority will also assess short-term sectoral plans of around five years and annual plans of transport ministries to ensure their alignment with the long-term master plan. This is expected to encourage multimodal infrastructure development and improve coordination between different modes of transport. Another important responsibility will be the technical appraisal of Central government infrastructure projects costing ₹500 crore or more. While ITLA will undertake technical evaluation, financial appraisal will continue through existing government mechanisms. The authority will subsequently monitor the implementation of such projects, facilitate coordinated issue resolution and conduct post-implementation impact assessments to evaluate project outcomes. The new institution will also establish a National Transport Data Repository (NTDR) by integrating transport and logistics datasets from multiple sources, including GSTN e-way bills, FASTag, Vahan, GPS-based systems and urban traffic management platforms. The consolidated data is expected to support freight-flow and origin-destination analysis, enabling more evidence-based infrastructure planning and monitoring. ITLA will further advise and assist in reviewing and updating the National Logistics Policy, 2022, besides supporting capacity building, training and skilling in logistics. It will also promote research and innovation across transportation and logistics. The government expects the authority to strengthen multimodal connectivity, improve infrastructure efficiency and help reduce logistics costs, while enhancing India’s competitiveness in global trade. The initiative is also positioned as an institutional mechanism supporting the country’s Vision 2047 objectives and complementing existing initiatives such as the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan and the National Logistics Policy. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited (NMIAL) has announced a series of corrective measures to address operational concerns raised by customs brokers and other air cargo stakeholders over cargo handling at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). The measures include additional manpower, improved cargo updates, a 24/7 customer helpdesk and a waiver of additional demurrage charges until October 15, 2026. The move follows a letter from the Brihanmumbai Customs Brokers' Association (BCBA) to Customs authorities highlighting operational challenges at the airport's cargo terminal. The concerns emerged as freighter operations transitioned from Mumbai's primary airport to NMIA. Challenge Group had also suspended its freighter operations to the airport, citing operational difficulties. In its October 3 response to BCBA, NMIAL acknowledged the difficulties experienced by the trade during the transition and apologised for the inconvenience. The airport operator said it would provide freight forwarders with more timely information on flight clearances and clearer delivery timelines, enabling consignees and logistics partners to plan cargo collections more effectively. NMIAL will also work more closely with Customs House Agents (CHAs) to address system-related issues and provide additional assistance to customers during the transition. To improve cargo turnaround, the airport operator plans to deploy more experienced personnel across its existing workforce. As an immediate relief measure, NMIAL has decided to waive additional demurrage charged after the applicable free period until October 15. The waiver is intended to reduce the financial impact on stakeholders affected by cargo processing and delivery delays. The airport has further established a 24/7 helpdesk for import and export customers at the CHA Lobby on the ground floor of the Gate Block Building at the NMIA Cargo Terminal. The facility includes Level 1 and escalation-level contacts for resolving customer issues. The corrective measures come as NMIA scales up its international cargo operations and works towards establishing itself as a major air cargo gateway for the Mumbai region. Industry stakeholders are expected to closely monitor improvements in cargo processing, customs coordination, manpower deployment and delivery timelines as operations stabilise. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Hong Kong-based Crown Worldwide Group has strengthened its presence in India with the inauguration of a 135,000-sq-ft integrated facility at Siwari in Gurugram, Delhi-NCR. The expansion forms part of the company’s broader India growth strategy, with Crown targeting more than ₹500 crore in annual revenue from the country by 2030, compared with nearly ₹300 crore in FY2024-25. Spread across 7.5 acres, the new facility is among Crown’s largest in India and brings together information management, workspace, relocation, logistics, mobility and fine art services under its integrated ‘One Crown’ approach. The site includes an 82,000-sq-ft warehouse with capacity to accommodate up to 900,000 cartons. The facility is also green-building certified, with 20 per cent of the site dedicated to green coverage. The co-location of multiple business units is designed to enable Crown to offer customers a wider range of services through a single platform while improving operational collaboration. The facility is expected to strengthen the company’s ability to serve corporate customers across Delhi-NCR and North India, including businesses seeking integrated relocation, storage, information management and logistics solutions. “India is central to our future, and we are delighted to support a growing number of India-headquartered multinational companies,” said Jennifer Harvey, Group Chief Executive Officer, Crown Worldwide Group. She added that the company’s investment reflects its commitment to simplifying the process of living, working and doing business across markets. Crown also plans to increase its investment in India. After investing $15 million over the past two years, the company intends to invest an additional $15 million over the next two years, taking its planned investment to $30 million. Its Indian business is currently growing at an estimated 10–12 per cent annually, making the country one of its fastest-growing markets. The company is simultaneously broadening its India proposition beyond its traditional relocation logistics operations. Its strategy includes records management, document digitisation, workplace asset management and information governance, responding to growing demand from global capability centres, hybrid work models and evolving compliance requirements. Crown currently operates 36 warehouses and facilities across India, with owned facilities in Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Coimbatore and Delhi. The Gurugram expansion follows the opening of a 76,000-sq-ft centre in Bengaluru in September 2025 and a 4.5-acre facility in Coimbatore in May 2026. Globally, Crown generates more than $600 million in annual revenue. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Assam has marked a significant milestone in India’s inland waterways and Northeast logistics landscape, with the first international cargo consignment from Upper Assam to a foreign port since Independence departing from the Bogibeel Terminal in Dibrugarh for Bangladesh. Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off the vessel DLB Patkai, pushed by the tug Kushal Konwar, carrying 540 metric tonnes of methanol produced by Assam Petro-Chemicals Limited (APCL) at Namrup. The consignment is bound for Pangaon Port in Dhaka, Bangladesh, marking the revival of Dibrugarh’s international river trade after nearly seven decades. The cargo will travel approximately 768 km along the Brahmaputra, designated as National Waterway-2 (NW-2), before entering the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR) for onward movement to Bangladesh. The overall journey from Bogibeel to Narayanganj is expected to cover around 1,300 km. The landmark movement is being viewed as a test of the Brahmaputra’s potential as a commercially viable freight corridor connecting the Northeast with international markets. The reopening of this route could provide industries in Assam and neighbouring states with an alternative to road-based transportation, while improving access to Bangladesh and other regional markets. The development has been enabled by infrastructure upgrades at Bogibeel and the establishment of customs and immigration facilities at Bogibeel and Dhubri. The Bogibeel passenger and cargo terminal, which became operational in 2024, is expected to play an important role in supporting future cargo movements. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said the initiative is expected to reduce logistics costs, ease pressure on road networks and strengthen regional economic connectivity. Regular methanol shipments to Bangladesh are also planned, indicating that the maiden voyage could evolve into a sustained trade service rather than remain a one-off movement. The revival also reconnects Dibrugarh with its historic role as a river-trade centre. Regular river cargo operations from the town declined after the mid-20th century as trade patterns shifted towards rail and other modes. The latest shipment represents a renewed effort to leverage the Brahmaputra for modern freight movement. Sonowal has also announced a ₹200-crore skill development centre at Bogibeel, expected to train around 50,000 young people from Assam and the Northeast over the next decade for opportunities in the maritime and shipping sectors. A With cargo movement on India’s national waterways rising substantially in recent years, the Dibrugarh-Dhaka shipment adds another dimension to the country’s multimodal logistics strategy. It could strengthen the Northeast’s position as a gateway to eastern and international markets while promoting inland waterways as a cost-efficient and lower-emission freight option. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Cargo operations at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) are facing a series of operational challenges as airlines transition freight services from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). Industry stakeholders have raised concerns over cargo-handling capacity, manpower shortages, equipment availability, delays in customs processes and inadequate coordination, creating uncertainty for carriers ahead of the peak air-freight season. The concerns have intensified following the decision by Malta-based Challenge Group to temporarily suspend its Mumbai cargo operations. The carrier said the current operating environment at NMIA does not yet provide the reliability and certainty required to maintain its services. Challenge Group had shifted its freighter operations to NMIA following the mandatory transition from CSMIA. According to Challenge Group, cargo-handling bottlenecks have affected both inbound and outbound operations. The airline's Chief Commercial Officer Or Zak highlighted constraints involving dollies, cargo availability and warehouse processes. He said a substantial volume of inbound cargo was waiting on dollies, limiting the ability to offload arriving aircraft, while export shipments were at times not ready, incorrectly built or awaiting release. The resulting bottlenecks could leave freighters departing with significantly reduced loads or, in some cases, without cargo. Customs brokers have separately flagged serious delays at the NMIA cargo complex. The Brihanmumbai Customs Brokers’ Association (BCBA) has reported instances of flight-checking delays exceeding 72 hours, along with shortages of operational manpower, loaders, forklifts, trained equipment operators and supervisory personnel. The association has also raised concerns about delays in registration and Permanent Deposit account opening, which can hold up cargo clearance even after shipments are ready for customs processing. Cargo storage has emerged as another concern, with the BCBA reporting instances of import consignments, including heavy and high-value shipments, being exposed to rain. The association has called for better covered storage, stronger cargo-handling procedures, adequate staffing and equipment, and faster resolution of operational grievances. The timing of these challenges is particularly significant as air cargo volumes enter the traditional peak season. Industry bodies and freight forwarders have indicated that the problems are not isolated, pointing to recurring delays in flight checking, cargo handling and account registration since freighter operations began at NMIA. Despite the hurdles, NMIA remains strategically important for Mumbai’s long-term aviation and logistics ecosystem. Several international freighter operators have already operated flights to the airport, while incentives such as landing-fee discounts are being offered to strengthen international cargo connectivity. For NMIA to establish itself as a competitive air cargo hub, industry stakeholders say operational readiness will need to catch up with the airport’s infrastructure capacity, particularly across ground handling, warehousing, customs coordination and cargo-flow management. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Japan Airlines (JAL) and Nippon Express Holdings (NX Group) have launched a new air cargo transport partnership connecting North America with key Asian markets, strengthening freight capacity amid rising demand for artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor and data centre-related shipments. Announced on October 1, 2026, the partnership will utilise a Boeing 747 freighter (747F) secured by JAL through collaboration with its partners. The service will operate on a round-trip circuit originating in Los Angeles and connecting Tokyo Narita, Taipei Taoyuan, Singapore and Narita before returning to Los Angeles. The first flight departed Los Angeles on October 3, with the service initially scheduled to operate once a week in 2026. Both companies intend to explore further network expansion. The new service aims to address growing cargo demand between North America and Asia, while improving connectivity across intra-Asia trade lanes. It will also provide additional options for shippers seeking reliable capacity for time-sensitive and high-value freight. Addressing Demand for AI and Semiconductor Cargo A key objective of the partnership is to expand access to large freighter capacity within Asia, particularly along the Tokyo–Taipei–Singapore corridor. Although demand for AI- and semiconductor-related shipments has increased significantly, the limited availability of large freighter aircraft operating within the region has constrained transportation options. The Boeing 747 freighter, with a maximum payload capacity of approximately 100 tonnes, will provide additional capacity for these markets. Its ability to accommodate oversized and heavy shipments makes it suitable for transporting server racks, data centre equipment and other high-value cargo associated with the expansion of generative AI and digital infrastructure. The partnership is also expected to offer greater flexibility in cargo routing. With shipments able to be loaded and unloaded at each stop along the circuit, the service will allow logistics providers to design transportation solutions around varied customer requirements. The network can support freight movements between North America and Asia, including onward connections to Latin America. Strengthening Air Cargo Network and Supply Chain Resilience For NX Group, the collaboration builds on its longstanding relationship with JAL and strengthens its ability to secure flexible air freight capacity across important international trade lanes. The partnership is intended to support more stable logistics operations as customers face increasingly complex transportation requirements. Satoshi Otsuji, Senior Managing Executive Officer and President of Global Business Headquarters at NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, said the partnership would strengthen the company’s ability to provide stable and flexible transport solutions. He added that expanding its international air cargo network through large freighters would help reinforce customers’ supply chains and support their business growth. For JAL, the initiative complements its passenger-flight cargo capacity and existing freighter network. Yuichiro Kito, Executive Officer and Senior Vice President – Cargo and Mail at Japan Airlines, said the partnership would introduce large freighter services to the US West Coast, extending the airline’s reach in growing markets and making its cargo-handling services available to more customers. As AI investment and semiconductor manufacturing continue to shape global freight flows, the JAL–NX Group partnership represents a strategic move to improve cargo capacity, routing flexibility and connectivity between major Asian production centres and North American markets. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Global air freight demand continued to strengthen in September 2026, prompting shippers to favour shorter-term and more flexible capacity agreements as rising demand, elevated rates and market volatility make long-term commitments increasingly difficult. According to data from Xeneta, global air freight volumes increased 6% year on year in September, following similar growth of 6% in August and 5% in July. Demand growth has outpaced capacity expansion, with global air cargo capacity rising only 2% year on year in September. As a result, Xeneta’s dynamic load factor increased by two percentage points to 62%. The tighter demand-capacity balance has also kept freight rates elevated. Global air cargo spot rates averaged $3.10 per kg in September, 27% higher than a year earlier and 2% above August. Seasonal demand at the end of the third quarter, alongside higher jet fuel costs and geopolitical tensions, contributed to the firmer pricing environment. Against this backdrop, shippers are increasingly avoiding lengthy fixed-rate commitments. Xeneta data shows that 60% of new air freight contracts starting in the third quarter of 2026 were for three months or less, compared with 25% during the same period in 2025 and 47% in the second quarter of 2026. Three-month contracts represented 42% of new agreements, up sharply from 16% a year earlier. In contrast, the proportion of 12-month contracts fell from 40% to 25%, while agreements exceeding one year accounted for just 3%. Niall van de Wouw, Chief Airfreight Officer at Xeneta, said shippers are increasingly looking for “floating mechanisms” that combine a base rate with adjustments reflecting changes in market conditions. “There is a high degree of realism in the way shippers are approaching the market. There remains a lot of instability and that’s making it almost impossible for shippers to make long-term capacity deals without having T&Cs in place to deal with these volatile conditions.” The shift reflects a broader move towards flexibility and transparency in air freight procurement. Shippers are seeking arrangements that can respond to changing capacity, demand and pricing rather than locking them into annual rates that may quickly become misaligned with market conditions. Xeneta expects global air freight demand to grow by around 4% in 2026. However, the company anticipates a relatively subdued peak season, with limited signs of a major fourth-quarter surge so far. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
FedEx has completed the sale of its FedEx Supply Chain business to the CMA CGM Group for an enterprise value of US$1.4 billion, marking another major step in the logistics group’s strategy to expand its integrated supply chain capabilities while enabling FedEx to sharpen its focus on core transportation operations. The transaction, completed on October 1, 2026, significantly strengthens CEVA Logistics, CMA CGM’s logistics subsidiary, by nearly tripling its North American contract logistics footprint. FedEx Supply Chain’s operations and workforce will be integrated into CEVA, expanding its capabilities across warehousing, distribution and contract logistics in the region. The acquisition forms part of CMA CGM’s broader strategy to build an integrated, end-to-end logistics platform spanning ocean, air, land and contract logistics. The company has also entered into multi-year commercial agreements with FedEx covering ocean and air freight. Under the arrangement, CMA CGM will become a preferred ocean carrier for FedEx on a non-exclusive basis, while the companies will collaborate on selected air cargo capacity solutions. The air freight partnership is expected to support key strategic routes, including Asia-Europe, with the objective of improving aircraft utilisation and providing greater flexibility for long-haul capacity. The collaboration further strengthens CMA CGM’s position across the air cargo value chain while allowing both companies to leverage complementary global networks. For CMA CGM, the acquisition reinforces its long-term investment in the US market and expands CEVA’s ability to offer customers more comprehensive supply chain solutions. The combined operations are expected to strengthen the company’s presence in North American contract logistics while supporting its ambitions to provide integrated logistics services to global customers. For FedEx, the divestment is aligned with its ongoing portfolio simplification and transformation strategy. FedEx President and CEO Raj Subramaniam said the transaction enables the company to concentrate resources on differentiated capabilities and strengthen its core transportation network and high-value verticals. The transaction was originally announced on July 1, 2026. Its completion represents a significant reshaping of the companies’ logistics strategies, combining CMA CGM’s expanding multimodal logistics platform with FedEx’s global transportation network through long-term commercial cooperation. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Swissport has expanded its European air cargo operations with the launch of Swissport Cargo Services France at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse, marking the company’s return to the French market. The new operation is supported by a 3,000-square-metre cargo warehouse in the French sector of the airport and is designed to provide a platform for future growth. The new facility comprises a 1,000-square-metre French customs zone and 2,000 square metres of international cargo handling space. The latter will support the build-up and breakdown of airline pallets, strengthening Swissport’s ability to handle cargo flows through the strategically located airport. Initially, Swissport Cargo Services France will focus on airline cargo handling. Although the new entity will operate independently within the French market, it will work closely with Swissport’s established Basel cargo operation. This approach will enable the company to leverage local expertise while applying its global standards for safety, quality and operational efficiency. “France is an important aviation market with significant long-term potential for Swissport,” says Bruno Stefani, Regional CEO Switzerland, Italy and France at Swissport. “The launch of Swissport Cargo Services France marks a significant step in strengthening our presence in the country. Beyond cargo, we see opportunities to bring our global expertise in airport ground services and hospitality to the French market and to build strong, long-term partnerships with airlines and airports.” The new operation also builds on Swissport’s longstanding presence at EuroAirport. The company has served airlines at Basel since 1994 and already operates a cargo facility at the airport. In 2024, Swissport handled more than 47,000 tonnes of cargo at the site, highlighting the importance of EuroAirport as a gateway for international freight, including pharmaceutical shipments. “The new operation allows us to build on the strong expertise of our established Basel cargo team while developing a dedicated presence in France,” said Andreas Behnke, Head of Cargo Switzerland, Italy and France and Station Manager Basel-Mulhouse at Swissport. “Our focus is on bringing the same commitment to teamwork, safety and operational excellence to our new operation and providing a strong foundation for its future development.” The launch further strengthens Swissport’s European cargo network, which forms part of a global network of more than 120 cargo centres. The company handles more than five million tonnes of air freight annually worldwide, combining international scale with local operational capabilities. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a SATS company, has inaugurated a new air cargo terminal at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport in France, strengthening cargo-handling capacity and consolidating its operations at one location within the airport’s CargoPort zone. The Aéroport de Lyon DC1 facility is directly connected to the airport’s airside infrastructure and has been designed to improve cargo flows, operational efficiency and supply chain reliability. The 25,313-square-metre facility, developed by logistics real estate company Prologis with Groupe em2c overseeing design, construction coordination and technical supervision, represents WFS’ second-largest operation in France after Paris Charles de Gaulle. WFS has operated at Lyon Airport since 1971 and will now centralise its local activities at the new terminal, supporting 380 customers in the region. The facility comprises 19,200 square metres of warehouse space across three cargo-handling units, including 4,400 square metres of temperature-controlled cold-storage areas. It also features 36 loading doors, including five dedicated to air freight pallet transfers, enabling smoother movement between landside access, cargo-handling areas and airside operations. The new terminal is particularly positioned to support high-value and temperature-sensitive cargo, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare products, biotechnology shipments and perishables. The development is expected to strengthen Lyon’s role in national and European logistics flows, while supporting more than 300 direct and indirect jobs associated with the facility. Laurent Bernard, Vice-President France at WFS, said: “Aéroport de Lyon DC1 represents a new milestone for WFS in Lyon, where we first commenced operations in 1971. Its design, temperature-controlled areas, and organisation of cargo flows enable us to strengthen our capacity and operational efficiency to handle sensitive and high value goods for our airline and freight forwarder customers. Given Lyon’s strategically important location, industrial base, and high-value economic sectors, this new generation of logistics infrastructure reinforces Lyon’s position in national and European logistics flows and will strengthen the economic attractiveness of the region.” The facility is also targeting a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, with sustainability considerations incorporated into its design. Its roof is solar-ready to accommodate a future photovoltaic installation. The project brings together Aéroports de Lyon, WFS, Prologis and Groupe em2c, creating infrastructure tailored to the evolving requirements of air cargo. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Ethiopian Airlines has signed an agreement with Boeing for 10 new freighter aircraft, comprising eight 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters, as the African carrier moves to strengthen its cargo capacity and support the expansion of its global air freight network. The agreement, announced on September 30, also includes an option for eight additional 777-8 Freighters. The order makes Ethiopian Airlines the first African carrier to purchase Boeing’s new-generation 777-8 Freighter. The aircraft is designed to combine the capabilities of the 777X family with long-haul freighter performance. Boeing says the 777-8F will offer a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes, while providing the range and efficiency needed to support new cargo markets. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, said: "The addition of the Boeing 777-8F Freighters and 777F Freighters will enhance our ability to serve customers around the world with greater payload capacity, operational flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability. As demand for cargo services continues to grow, these aircraft will play a vital role in facilitating global trade, strengthening supply chain connectivity, and further reinforcing Ethiopia's position as a leading cargo gateway between Africa and international markets. It also marks our long-term partnership with Boeing." "Ethiopian Airlines' order for the industry-leading 777 Freighter and new 777-8 Freighter highlights both the strength of our partnership and growing demand for air cargo worldwide," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "We appreciate Ethiopian Airlines' continued confidence in Boeing and the 777 and 777X family of airplanes as it expands its cargo capabilities and global network. The airline continues to make history as the first in Africa to order the new 777-8 Freighter." Ethiopian Airlines currently operates 12 Boeing 777 Freighters, two 767 Freighters and four 737-800SF aircraft, serving more than 70 cargo markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. The new aircraft are expected to provide additional flexibility and capacity as global demand for air cargo continues to rise. The deal further expands Ethiopian Airlines’ relationship with Boeing and doubles its existing 777X family order book, following its earlier purchase of eight 777-9 passenger aircraft. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Cathay Cargo has introduced an AI-assisted screening capability designed to help customers identify potential permit and trade-control requirements earlier in the air cargo shipment process, strengthening compliance as international trade regulations become increasingly complex. The new digital capability uses artificial intelligence-assisted language analysis to assess shipment information against relevant trade-control requirements covering imports, exports and transhipments. Unlike conventional screening processes that depend largely on keyword matching, the system is designed to interpret the context of goods descriptions and identify potential links to applicable control-list requirements. The additional layer of digital screening is intended to give shippers greater visibility of regulatory obligations before cargo enters Cathay Cargo’s network. It can also help reduce the risk of shipment delays or disruptions arising from unidentified compliance requirements. However, shippers remain responsible for providing accurate and complete cargo declarations, while human oversight continues to be an integral part of the process. Cathay Cargo Director Cargo Dominic Perret said: “As global trade requirements continue to evolve, what customers value most is certainty — knowing that obligations are identified before a shipment moves, not after. Leveraging this new AI-assisted screening and clearer operational context for our frontline teams, Cathay Cargo is strengthening our ability to identify potential compliance requirements earlier, keep information accurate throughout the shipment journey, and facilitate safe, reliable and responsible cargo movement.” Alongside the AI capability, Cathay Cargo has redesigned its frontline display to present screening alerts and regulatory information more clearly. Operational teams can see why a shipment has been flagged and determine the follow-up action required, enabling them to prioritise alerts and address potential compliance issues before cargo moves through the network. The initiative builds on Cathay Cargo’s broader digitalisation and AI strategy. The carrier already uses AI-assisted technologies in areas including lithium-battery screening, predictive safety analysis and AI-enhanced CCTV at its cargo terminals. Perret added: “Through digital innovation and AI, Cathay Cargo continues to set the new industry standards that will shape the future of air cargo. The value of this enhancement is in how dense regulatory requirements are made clearer and more actionable for our people. Pairing digital intelligence with operational expertise creates better outcomes for customers, regulators and the wider air cargo community. We will continue to enhance the capability through operational feedback and compliance reviews.” As global trade controls continue to evolve, Cathay Cargo said it will further refine the screening capability through operational feedback and compliance reviews, reinforcing its focus on secure, compliant and efficient cargo movement. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
FedEx has completed a specialised international air cargo operation, transporting two giant pandas from Chengdu, China to Atlanta, United States, as part of ongoing global conservation efforts. The mission saw six-year-old male Ping Ping and five-year-old female Fu Shuang travel aboard a dedicated FedEx Boeing 777F, known as the “FedEx Panda Express”, to their new home at Zoo Atlanta. The pandas travelled on a non-stop flight from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. According to industry reports, the journey covered approximately 13,000 kilometres and lasted around 16 hours, highlighting the operational precision required to move live and highly sensitive cargo across continents. For the journey, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang were placed in custom-built travel crates and accompanied by animal specialists from Zoo Atlanta. The pandas were the only cargo aboard the aircraft, travelling with fresh bamboo, water and their preferred treats. Before departure, they were also given time to become familiar with their transport enclosures, helping ensure a safe and comfortable journey. The operation extended beyond air transportation. Following the flight, FedEx provided trucking and logistical support in Atlanta to move the pandas from the airport to Zoo Atlanta. The coordinated operation brought together air, ground and logistics capabilities across China and the US, demonstrating the specialised handling, security and precision required for exceptional cargo movements. FedEx also donated the full transportation cost of the mission as part of its corporate social responsibility and environmental conservation efforts. The company has been involved in transporting giant pandas for more than two decades, working with the Chinese government and zoos and conservation institutions worldwide. With the latest mission, FedEx has transported 23 pandas to and from China since 2000. The latest movement follows several previous FedEx Panda Express missions involving the transportation of pandas between China and destinations including the United States, Canada, France and Scotland. These operations have established specialised animal transportation as an important demonstration of the logistics provider’s ability to manage high-priority, sensitive shipments requiring dedicated resources and cross-border coordination. Following their arrival, Ping Ping and Fu Shuang entered quarantine at Zoo Atlanta ahead of their planned public debut later this year. Beyond the symbolic importance of the animals, the mission underscores how specialised air cargo networks can support international conservation, scientific collaboration and wildlife protection by safely connecting institutions across borders. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
India has taken a landmark step towards establishing itself as a global supplier of green maritime fuel with the foundation stone laid for the country’s first port-based e-methanol production facility at Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) in Kandla, Gujarat. The ₹2,300-crore project is being jointly developed by DPA and Namrup-based Assam Petro-Chemicals Ltd (APCL) and is designed to support the decarbonisation of international shipping. The foundation stone was laid on September 26 by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The facility will have a total production capacity of 150 tonnes of e-methanol per day. It will use renewable power, water and biogenic carbon dioxide (CO₂) to produce e-methanol, which is intended to be supplied to vessels operating along the Asia-Europe International Trade Corridor, one of the world’s busiest maritime routes. The e-methanol plant will be established through scalable modules in two phases. Phase I will add 50 tonnes per day of production capacity at an investment of ₹1,200 crore and is targeted for completion by January 2027. Phase II, involving a further 100 tonnes per day, will require an investment of ₹1,100 crore and is scheduled for completion by March 2027. Together, the two phases will take the project’s total investment to ₹2,300 crore. The capital contribution between DPA and APCL will be in a 76:24 ratio. DPA’s contribution includes ₹567.32 crore in equity capital, 75 acres of land, desalinated water and renewable energy in the form of green hydrogen. The facility is expected to rank among India’s largest e-methanol production plants and generate more than 3,500 direct and indirect jobs. According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the plant is expected to produce green methanol at around US$750 per tonne, compared with a global rate of about US$1,300 per tonne. This cost advantage could strengthen India’s position as a competitive producer and supplier of green fuel for international shipping. Beyond fuel production, the project is expected to stimulate a wider green-energy value chain around Kandla, covering transportation, storage, supply and other ancillary activities associated with green molecule production. It also aligns with India’s broader maritime decarbonisation objectives and its Net Zero emissions target for 2070. The government aims to add 100 ships to the Indian merchant fleet over the next five years and make India one of the world’s top five ship-owning nations by 2047. Therefore, the Kandla facility represents more than a new green-fuel production asset; it marks an effort to integrate port infrastructure, renewable energy and maritime fuel supply into a single ecosystem, potentially positioning Kandla as an emerging green-fuel hub for global shipping. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Dhamra Port in Odisha, operated by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), has transitioned its entire electricity consumption to renewable power, making it India’s first large-scale private multi-cargo port to operate fully on renewable electricity. The transition, effective from August 2026, forms part of APSEZ’s long-term Net-Zero strategy. The port currently meets more than 90 lakh units of monthly electricity demand through renewable sources, with annualised renewable power consumption exceeding 108 gigawatt-hours (GWh). Renewable electricity now supports its round-the-clock operations, including cargo handling, storage, rail-linked activities and other critical port infrastructure. Dhamra’s renewable electricity supply is structured through a combination of captive generation, third-party access and green-power procurement under Odisha’s regulatory framework. Around 25–30% of its renewable power comes from APSEZ’s captive hybrid power plant at Khavda in Gujarat, while another 10–15% is sourced through third-party access. The remaining requirement is met through a Green Consumer arrangement with Odisha’s distribution utility. The shift is expected to reduce emissions associated with purchased electricity while improving the environmental performance of the port’s energy-intensive operations. It also strengthens Dhamra’s position as a major logistics infrastructure asset supporting the decarbonisation of India’s maritime and supply chain ecosystem. Located on Odisha’s coast between Haldia and Paradip, Dhamra is one of eastern India’s key deep-draft ports. It has an installed cargo-handling capacity of 60 million tonnes (MT) and handled 48.8 MT of cargo during the financial year ended March 2026. The port has six dry-cargo berths, rapid-loading silos, wagon tipplers, track hoppers, mechanised storage yards and jetty equipment. Additionally, the port is also connected by rail and road with mineral-rich hinterlands across Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, making it an important gateway for the region’s industrial and bulk cargo flows. Its renewable electricity transition places the port among large-scale logistics and industrial facilities increasingly adopting cleaner energy to lower operational emissions and advance long-term decarbonisation goals. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Kazakhstan-based cargo airline Jupiter Jet is rebuilding its operations with the addition of a leased Boeing 757-200 passenger-to-freighter (P2F) aircraft from AerSale, marking an important step in the carrier’s plans to expand its regional and international freight network. The Boeing 757-200PCF is Jupiter Jet’s first aircraft as it resumes operations and is expected to support cargo services across Central Asia and neighbouring markets. The aircraft offers a combination of payload capability, operating economics and range, making it suitable for express cargo and e-commerce networks, particularly across the region. The addition of the freighter strengthens Jupiter Jet’s fleet and provides the carrier with increased operational flexibility as demand for reliable air cargo capacity continues to grow. Jupiter Jet serves Kazakhstan and surrounding markets, offering freight solutions across Central Asia and beyond. “We are pleased to support Jupiter Jet’s fleet expansion with this Boeing 757 freighter,” said Craig Wright, Senior Vice President and Head of Asset Management at AerSale. “The 757 remains one of the industry’s most versatile and dependable medium-haul freighters, and this lease demonstrates AerSale’s ability to provide tailored fleet solutions that help operators meet evolving market demand,” he added. For Jupiter Jet, the aircraft is expected to provide the performance and economics required to develop its expanding cargo network. The airline has retained its air operator certificate during its period of suspended operations and is now using the Boeing 757 to rebuild its presence in the regional freight market. “We are excited to add the Boeing 757 freighter to our fleet through our partnership with AerSale,” said Erik Kozbagarov, Chief Executive Officer of Jupiter Jet. “The aircraft’s performance and economics make it an excellent fit for our expanding cargo network, allowing us to better serve our customers while positioning Jupiter Jet for continued growth,” he added. The lease also adds another Boeing 757 freighter to AerSale’s growing Central Asian cargo portfolio, following its earlier agreement with Tashkent-based Stratos Freight for a Boeing 757-200 Precision Converted Freighter. AerSale’s aircraft leasing platform supports operators worldwide with fleet solutions backed by capabilities spanning aircraft and component maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), engine solutions, used serviceable material (USM) and asset management. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
SATS has introduced an integrated transport service using Autonomous Cargo Vehicles (ACVs) at the Changi Airfreight Centre in Singapore, marking a step towards more automated, responsive and sustainable cargo operations at the airport. The service enables autonomous transportation of cargo between SATS Airfreight Terminals and freight forwarders’ warehouses within the Free Trade Zone. Designed for freight forwarders and cargo agents, the service is currently being validated under live operating conditions as SATS progresses towards full deployment. The ACVs deployed in the pilot can carry up to 800 kilogrammes of cargo and automate routine point-to-point movements between SATS terminals and freight forwarders’ warehouses. The solution is designed to scale with demand. SATS said higher-capacity ACVs capable of carrying up to 1,500 kilogrammes could be deployed in the future, while the model also has the potential to support round-the-clock operations. By enabling on-demand cargo transfers, the service reduces freight forwarders’ reliance on conventional truck and driver schedules, helping accelerate cargo collection and delivery and allowing consignees to receive shipments sooner. Henry Low, CEO, SATS SG Hub, said, “Autonomous transportation allows us to rethink how cargo moves through the airport ecosystem, shifting routine movements towards an on-demand, scalable model. By integrating it into our operations, we can unlock capacity, strengthen resilience and augment the capabilities of our people, while delivering greater speed and reliability for our customers. This is how we are building a more intelligent and responsive Singapore air cargo hub for the future.” SATS has worked closely with Changi Airport Group to deploy and validate the ACVs within the airport’s autonomous vehicle operational and safety framework. This collaboration allows the technology to be tested and progressively integrated into live cargo operations while meeting the safety and operational requirements of the Changi air cargo ecosystem. The fully electric ACVs also support SATS’ efforts to transition towards more sustainable cargo transportation within the airport environment. The initiative forms part of SATS Singapore Hub’s Hub Handler of the Future programme, announced in October 2025, which brings together people, technology and new operating models to increase capacity, improve visibility and strengthen operational resilience. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬
Brussels Airport and Hyderabad International Airport have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in air cargo development and explore opportunities to enhance connectivity between Belgium and India. The partnership will focus particularly on pharmaceutical and life sciences shipments, knowledge sharing and the development of stronger trade links. Under the agreement, the two airports will work together to identify opportunities for stronger air connectivity and develop cargo links between Brussels and Hyderabad. The collaboration will examine market demand, freight flows, route viability, cargo operating practices and stakeholder engagement, with the objective of developing concrete business cases for potential future services. Airlines, freight forwarders and other logistics stakeholders are also expected to be engaged as the initiative progresses. Brussels Airport will contribute its expertise in pharmaceutical logistics, while Hyderabad’s expanding life sciences ecosystem offers significant potential for joint development. Brussels Airport became the first airport globally to achieve CEIV Pharma certification in 2014 and currently provides 45,000 square metres of temperature-controlled storage capacity, the largest concentration of dedicated airport pharma storage facilities in Europe. Arnaud Feist, CEO Brussels Airport, said, “With this MoU, we are taking an important step to bring the ecosystems of Brussels Airport and Hyderabad International Airport closer together. By strengthening cargo flows between our regions, we can support trade and economic growth. As Europe's preferred pharma and life sciences hub, Brussels Airport has built a strong ecosystem and extensive expertise in pharmaceutical logistics. Combined with Hyderabad's leading life sciences ecosystem, this creates valuable opportunities for future cooperation and knowledge exchange." Kadhir Kadhiravan, CEO, GMR Hyderabad International Airport, said, “Hyderabad’s growing economic base and strategic location position it strongly to serve as a gateway for India’s international trade. Our collaboration with Brussels Airport strengthens our ability to connect Hyderabad with the wider European cargo ecosystem and supports our ambition to build a more globally integrated cargo network. By bringing together market expertise, industry partnerships and complementary strengths, we can create new opportunities for businesses in Hyderabad and across the region while strengthening the airport’s role in India’s international trade corridors.” India is the world’s largest supplier of generic medicines, accounting for around 20% of global supply by volume, while Hyderabad is a major life sciences hub spanning pharmaceuticals, vaccines and research and development. The MoU was signed with support from Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT), highlighting strengthening economic ties between Belgium and India. Importantly, there is currently no direct air connection between the two cities. The partnership will therefore explore ways to improve connectivity and support greater cargo flows between the two markets. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 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.
