With the upcoming expansion of cargo and aviation activity linked to the Noida International Airport, the Noida Authority has initiated a citywide survey exercise aimed at developing a comprehensive City Logistics Plan (CLP) for the region. Officials said survey teams have begun collecting data from industrial corridors, transportation routes, logistics facilities and warehousing zones across the city. The findings will form the basis of a long-term strategy intended to improve freight movement, reduce congestion, and support sustainable urban logistics growth. The City Logistics Plan is being prepared under the framework of the National Logistics Policy (NLP), a flagship initiative of the central government focused on improving supply chain efficiency and reducing logistics costs across India. Noida is among the selected cities identified for implementing the programme. According to officials, the survey exercise is expected to continue for about a week. Once completed, the collected data will be analysed and compiled into a report that will help shape future logistics infrastructure planning. Vaibhav Gupta, Senior Manager in the Noida Authority’s Planning Department, said the study will assess existing freight movement patterns and identify opportunities to improve delivery efficiency while lowering transportation-related emissions. He added that the initiative is expected to support smoother cargo operations as economic activity around the upcoming airport gathers momentum. The project is being coordinated by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Consulting firm Ernst & Young (EY) has been appointed to assist with the planning and execution of the study. As part of the assessment, officials will examine truck traffic volumes, freight corridors, warehousing infrastructure, logistics hubs and parking facilities. The study will also evaluate measures aimed at reducing bottlenecks, improving vehicle movement and encouraging environmentally sustainable freight practices. Feedback from industry representatives, transport operators and other stakeholders will be incorporated into the planning process. Noida remains one of northern India’s most significant industrial and manufacturing centres, hosting more than 10,000 industrial units across multiple sectors. The city has developed strong clusters in electronics, mobile phone manufacturing, engineering products, electrical equipment, automotive components, garments, packaging materials and IT hardware. Industry leaders have welcomed the move, saying the city’s logistics ecosystem requires a more coordinated approach. Business representatives believe a structured logistics framework can help improve operational efficiency, lower transportation costs and strengthen industrial competitiveness. Entrepreneurs have also highlighted persistent challenges related to truck parking. The absence of dedicated parking zones often forces commercial vehicles carrying raw materials to stop along roadsides, contributing to traffic congestion and operational delays. Another issue raised by industry groups concerns restrictions on truck entry into Delhi during peak hours. These regulations frequently lead to vehicle queues near the Delhi-Noida border, affecting cargo movement toward neighbouring states such as Haryana and Rajasthan. Stakeholders have suggested that authorities explore dedicated freight routes or alternative traffic-management measures to facilitate smoother movement of goods. The proposed City Logistics Plan is expected to provide a roadmap for addressing these challenges while preparing Noida for future growth as a major logistics and cargo hub in the National Capital Region.

The rapid growth of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, particularly GLP-1 weight-loss and diabetes treatments, is prompting global logistics providers to strengthen their cold-chain capabilities. In response to this trend, UPS has announced a $48 million investment to expand its temperature-controlled logistics infrastructure across key international markets. The company is developing 27 specialised cross-docking and storage facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia. These facilities are designed to support the safe movement of medicines and healthcare products that require strict temperature management throughout transportation and handling. The expansion comes at a time when demand for refrigerated drugs such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic continues to surge globally. Since these medications must remain within controlled temperature ranges from manufacturing to patient delivery, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly relying on advanced cold-chain logistics solutions. Commenting on the initiative, Kate Gutmann, President of International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions at UPS, said the company is focused on ensuring critical therapies reach patients without compromising product integrity. She noted that healthcare logistics goes beyond package transportation and plays a direct role in supporting patient care worldwide. Industry forecasts indicate that the market for temperature-sensitive biologics is expected to witness sustained growth over the coming years. Research from Growth Market Reports projects the segment to reach nearly $39 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual rate of more than 8%. The increasing importance of reliable cold-chain infrastructure is also underscored by findings from the World Health Organization, which has highlighted significant losses of vaccines and other medical products due to temperature-control failures during transit and storage. UPS has also been strengthening its healthcare business through strategic acquisitions. Earlier, the company acquired Canada-based Andlauer Healthcare Group in a cash transaction valued at approximately $1.6 billion. The acquisition enhanced UPS’s presence in pharmaceutical transportation, particularly in temperature-controlled ground logistics, which forms a substantial portion of Andlauer’s operations. Healthcare logistics has emerged as a major growth area within UPS’s broader business transformation strategy. During the company's first-quarter earnings discussion, CEO Carol Tomé stated that UPS has consistently increased its healthcare market presence since 2021. The first quarter of 2026 marked a milestone for the division, with quarterly healthcare revenue surpassing the $3 billion mark for the first time. While UPS generated $21.2 billion in revenue during the quarter, net profit declined year-on-year as the company continued restructuring parts of its domestic delivery network. Despite these challenges, the organisation remains focused on shifting toward higher-value and higher-margin service segments, with healthcare logistics playing a central role. John Bolla, President of UPS Healthcare, said the latest investments reinforce the company’s commitment to safeguarding innovative medicines, diagnostics, and life-science products while helping healthcare providers deliver improved patient outcomes.

DP World and Germany-based Wilo Group have agreed to broaden their long-standing relationship through a new strategic partnership focused on sustainability, digital innovation and next-generation logistics solutions. Formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the collaboration will explore opportunities to integrate advanced water technologies, artificial intelligence applications and smart supply chain solutions across global operations. The agreement was signed at Wilo's headquarters in Dortmund by Oliver Hermes, President and Global CEO of Wilo Group, and Abdulla Al Hashmi, Global Chief Operating Officer for Parks and Economic Zones at DP World. The expanded partnership reflects a shared ambition to develop more efficient industrial ecosystems while supporting sustainable infrastructure projects in key international markets. According to Hermes, combining Wilo's expertise in intelligent water management with DP World's logistics and infrastructure capabilities creates new possibilities for large-scale projects. He noted that the growing role of artificial intelligence will help both organisations deliver solutions with long-term environmental and operational benefits across industries ranging from water management to logistics. For DP World, the agreement builds upon a relationship that has developed over many years through the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza). Abdulla Al Hashmi said the collaboration brings together complementary strengths, with Wilo contributing engineering and technology expertise while DP World provides an integrated logistics platform capable of supporting global industrial growth. Beyond technology deployment, the partnership also places emphasis on knowledge sharing, workforce development and innovation-led industrial expansion. Both organisations see talent development as a critical factor in supporting future manufacturing and infrastructure requirements. The collaboration draws on Wilo's established presence in the UAE, particularly its Green Fab manufacturing facility in Dubai, which operates within Jafza and recently underwent a major expansion to support growing regional demand. Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will assess opportunities to deploy Wilo's AI-enabled solutions across DP World's ports, logistics parks and economic zones. They will also work on improving supply chain efficiencies and explore potential cooperation through the Wilo Global WATER AI Academy programme, which focuses on innovation, digital skills and sustainable water management technologies. The move highlights the increasing convergence of advanced manufacturing, smart logistics and sustainability initiatives as businesses seek more resilient and technology-driven supply chains.

AD Ports Group has taken another step in expanding its digital logistics presence in Jordan with the launch of a new joint venture formed in partnership with Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC). The initiative, named Noatum Ports – Maqta Ayla Digital Solutions, is aimed at modernising port and logistics operations across the country through advanced digital platforms. The company, operating under AD Ports Group's Noatum Ports business, will oversee the development and management of a Port Community System (PCS) for Aqaba. Designed to bring multiple stakeholders onto a unified digital platform, the system will enable smoother coordination among port operators, government agencies, terminal operators, logistics providers, and cargo owners. Alongside the PCS rollout, the venture has successfully delivered the first phase of a truck management solution at Aqaba's ports. The platform acts as a centralised gateway for logistics-related procedures, helping reduce administrative bottlenecks, optimise truck movements, shorten turnaround times, and enhance cargo-handling efficiency. The launch event brought together senior representatives from the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), Aqaba Development Corporation, and AD Ports Group, underscoring the strategic importance of the project for Jordan's logistics sector. According to Shadi Al Majali, Chief Commissioner of ASEZA, the initiative aligns with Aqaba's long-term vision of evolving into a digitally enabled logistics and trade gateway on the Red Sea. He noted that the truck management platform is expected to contribute to smoother traffic management and more efficient port operations. Hussein Al Safadi, Chief Executive Officer of Aqaba Development Corporation, highlighted that the collaboration combines ADC's development ambitions with AD Ports Group's international experience in port management and infrastructure development. Mohamed Al Tamimi, CEO of Noatum Ports at AD Ports Group, said the venture reflects the group's continued commitment to supporting Jordan's logistics ecosystem through technology-driven solutions that improve supply chain performance and operational visibility. The latest development further broadens AD Ports Group's activities in Jordan. The company already operates the Aqaba Multipurpose Port, manages digital customs services at the Al Madouneh Customs Centre, developed the Aqaba Cruise Terminal, and is involved in the large-scale Marsa Zayed waterfront project.

  Delhivery has introduced a new geospatial technology platform, Delhivery Maps, marking its entry into the commercial mapping and navigation solutions space. The logistics company announced that the AI-driven suite of mapping APIs, previously developed and deployed exclusively for its own operations, will now be available to enterprises, developers, and gig-economy businesses. The launch reflects Delhivery’s broader effort to commercialise technology built in-house over years of operating one of India's largest logistics networks. The company originally created the mapping infrastructure to reduce dependence on external map providers while improving efficiency across its express parcel, freight, and supply chain businesses. According to the company, Delhivery Maps offers a comprehensive range of geospatial services, including address auto-completion, geocoding, reverse geocoding, navigation, route optimisation, distance matrix calculations, map tiles, and vehicle-aware routing. Unlike conventional mapping platforms, the solution has been designed specifically for logistics and commercial transportation requirements. The platform incorporates operational considerations such as heavy-vehicle movement patterns, road restrictions, commercial routing rules, and landmark-based navigation to improve route planning and delivery execution. Delhivery said the system has been trained and refined using operational data accumulated over years of deliveries across the country. The accuracy of the platform is backed by historical information generated from more than 200 crore shipments and over one billion daily GPS signals collected from a fleet exceeding one lakh vehicles. This extensive dataset enables the platform to better understand India's complex addressing ecosystem and transportation network. At the core of the offering is Naksha LLM, Delhivery’s proprietary geospatial reasoning model. Built to process unstructured and incomplete address information, the model uses advanced reasoning capabilities to interpret location data more effectively. Naksha LLM is also available through the Delhivery Maps MCP ecosystem. The company believes the platform can address a variety of use cases across sectors such as ecommerce, quick commerce, ride-hailing, and on-demand services. Businesses can leverage the APIs for tasks including address validation, dispatch optimisation, route planning, and more accurate delivery time predictions. Commenting on the launch, Delhivery Chief Technology Officer Kapil Bharati said the solution was born out of operational necessity, helping the company manage commercial routing complexities and unstructured addresses at scale while running India's largest logistics network. The launch comes as Delhivery continues to diversify its business portfolio. In recent months, the company established Delhivery Financial Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary focused on financial products for truck drivers, fleet operators, riders, and MSMEs. The offerings are expected to include credit-linked services, fuel cards, and insurance solutions. The company has also been strengthening newer business verticals such as Delhivery Direct and Rapid. While Delhivery Direct caters to hyperlocal, on-demand deliveries through two-wheelers as well as larger vehicles, Rapid supports quick-commerce fulfilment by managing dark-store operations for brands, retailers, and direct-to-consumer businesses. Financially, Delhivery maintained stable profitability during the March quarter, posting a consolidated net profit of ₹72.4 crore. Revenue from operations climbed 30 per cent year-on-year to ₹2,850 crore. For FY26, the company reported a net profit of ₹321 crore, up 8 per cent from the previous year, while service revenue increased 17 per cent to ₹10,486 crore.   For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT. 

Tata Motors has received fresh orders for more than 3,400 electric commercial vehicles (eCVs), reinforcing the growing acceptance of electric mobility across India's freight transportation and passenger mobility sectors. The latest bookings span a broad spectrum of applications, ranging from urban deliveries and logistics operations to heavy-duty industrial transportation and public transport services. According to the company, the order pipeline includes nearly 2,000 electric small commercial vehicles and pick-ups, around 900 electric trucks, and approximately 500 electric buses. These vehicles are expected to be deployed across sectors such as e-commerce, FMCG and FMCD distribution, logistics, construction materials transportation, mining operations, and city as well as intercity passenger movement. The development reflects a notable shift in how commercial fleet operators are approaching electrification. While electric vehicles were initially introduced through pilot projects and limited deployments, businesses are now increasingly integrating them into day-to-day operations at scale. Industry observers note that this transition is being driven by improvements in vehicle performance, lower operating costs, and expanding charging infrastructure. To address varying operational requirements, Tata Motors has steadily broadened its electric commercial vehicle portfolio over the past year. In the last-mile and intra-city delivery segment, models such as the Ace Pro EV, Ace EV, and Intra EV are designed to cater to urban logistics and distribution needs. These vehicles have found increasing relevance among e-commerce companies and logistics providers seeking cleaner and more cost-efficient transportation solutions. Beyond the light commercial segment, the company has expanded its offerings into medium and heavy-duty categories. The Ultra EV range, available in the 7-12 tonne segment, serves diverse freight applications, while the Prima EV 55T tractor and Prima EV 28T tipper cater to heavier industrial and infrastructure-related operations. For passenger transport, Tata Motors continues to strengthen its presence through the Starbus EV and Ultra EV bus platforms, which are being deployed for both city and inter-city travel. One of the key factors supporting wider adoption is the company's existing experience in electric mobility. Tata Motors currently has more than 3,800 electric buses operating across several Indian cities. Collectively, these buses have covered over 550 million kilometres, generating valuable operational insights across different climatic, geographic, and traffic conditions. Additionally, over 17,000 Tata electric small commercial vehicles are already active on Indian roads. Such large-scale deployments provide important data on vehicle reliability, battery performance, maintenance requirements, and overall fleet economics. For commercial operators, these factors often carry greater weight than the initial acquisition cost, as purchasing decisions are increasingly based on uptime, efficiency, and total cost of ownership. Industry experts also point out that vehicle availability alone will not determine the pace of commercial EV adoption. Recognising this, Tata Motors has focused on developing a supporting ecosystem around its electric vehicle portfolio. The company has partnered with more than 14 charging point operators, established financing arrangements through banks and NBFCs, and introduced digital fleet-management solutions through its Fleet Edge platform. It also offers uptime assurance programmes aimed at minimising operational disruptions. The latest order win strengthens Tata Motors' position in India's evolving electric commercial vehicle market. The diversity of the orders—covering small commercial vehicles, trucks, and buses—highlights the expanding relevance of electric mobility across multiple transportation segments. As businesses continue to pursue sustainability goals while seeking greater cost efficiencies, electric commercial vehicles are expected to play an increasingly significant role in fleet operations. For Tata Motors, these deployments not only contribute to market expansion but also create opportunities for further product refinement, stronger service networks, and deeper customer engagement in the years ahead.

Furniture and lifestyle rental company Furlenco is scaling up its electric mobility journey by extending its logistics partnership with Green Drive Mobility to Delhi and Hyderabad, following the successful implementation of an EV-led delivery model in Bengaluru. The move forms part of Furlenco's broader strategy to make its logistics operations more sustainable while maintaining service efficiency across its growing footprint. The company currently handles a vast network of deliveries, installations, product returns, warehouse transfers, refurbishment movements, and customer fulfilment activities across multiple cities, making transportation a critical component of its business operations. What began as a pilot initiative in Bengaluru has now evolved into a multi-city deployment. Under the ongoing roadmap, nearly 150 conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles are expected to be gradually replaced with electric vehicles in the coming phases, helping reduce emissions while improving long-term operational efficiency. Green Drive Mobility has been entrusted with managing the transition from end to end. Its responsibilities include vehicle deployment, driver onboarding, fleet monitoring, utilisation management, maintenance support, and local operational execution. The company believes that enterprise-led fleet electrification is gaining momentum as businesses increasingly look for predictable operating costs and cleaner transportation alternatives. According to Ala Harikrishna, Founder of Green Drive Mobility, the partnership has expanded steadily because both organisations remained focused on operational execution rather than treating electrification as a standalone sustainability initiative. He noted that the success of the Bengaluru deployment demonstrated that EVs are capable of supporting demanding logistics operations, paving the way for expansion into additional metropolitan markets. Harikrishna further observed that sustainability is becoming an integral part of business operations rather than an isolated corporate objective. He added that the planned migration of a large number of conventional vehicles to EVs illustrates how enterprises can simultaneously lower their environmental footprint and strengthen operational performance. For Furlenco, the transition is part of a longer-term vision that dates back several years. Ajay Agarwal, Chief Operating Officer of Furlenco, said the company began investing in sustainable mobility solutions as early as 2023, at a time when EVs had yet to gain widespread acceptance as a dependable logistics option. He emphasised that as Furlenco expands across India, it remains focused on building a distribution network that is scalable, cost-efficient, and aligned with its environmental commitments. Agarwal also acknowledged Green Drive Mobility's role in helping the company adopt cleaner transportation solutions while maintaining service standards and customer experience. Industry observers note that the collaboration reflects a wider transformation taking place across India's logistics sector. Electric vehicles are increasingly moving beyond pilot programmes and experimental projects to become a mainstream component of commercial fleet operations. By expanding their partnership across multiple cities, Furlenco and Green Drive Mobility are contributing to this shift and demonstrating how sustainability and business growth can progress together. As urban centres continue to tighten emission regulations and companies seek greener supply-chain solutions, such collaborations are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of logistics and last-mile transportation in India.

Over 550 delegates, government leaders and industry stalwarts unite around the vision — “One Fraternity, One Vision: Logistics Driving India Towards Viksit Bharat”   Mumbai, 17 June 2026 — The Brihanmumbai Custom Brokers’ Association (BCBA), established in 1939, successfully hosted the second edition of The India Logistics Conclave 2026 at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, drawing more than 550 delegates, invitees and guests from across the customs, ports, shipping, trade and logistics ecosystem. Anchored in the theme “One Fraternity, One Vision — Logistics Driving India Towards Viksit Bharat,” the day-long Conclave brought senior government leadership and industry stalwarts onto one platform to chart the road to a developed India by 2047. The proceedings began at 09:45 a.m. with the ceremonial inauguration of the CBIC Pavilion, followed by the Inaugural Session. In a defining moment, Shri Vivek Chaturvedi, Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), delivered the welcome address live online, sharing the Board’s vision for a modern, trust-based and technology-led customs administration — received by the fraternity as a source of great strength and inspiration. The inaugural dais featured an eminent gathering of dignitaries. These included Shri Yogendra Garg, Member (Customs), CBIC; Shri Anupam Prakash, Joint Secretary, Customs; Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde, IPS, Additional Director General of Shipping; Shri Sunil Jain, IRS, Director General of Valuation; Capt. BVJK Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Navi Mumbai International Airport; Capt. Deepak Tiwari, Managing Director, MSC India and Chairman, CSLA; Shri Om Hisaria, Senior Executive Vice President, Reliance Industries Limited; and Mr Mukesh Oza, Group President & CEO, Samsara Group. They were joined on the dais by BCBA President Mr Sanjeev Harale and Senior Vice President Mr Paresh Thakkar. “To see this fraternity stand shoulder to shoulder with the highest offices of government and industry, under one roof and one vision, has been deeply humbling,” said Mr Paresh Thakkar, Senior Vice President, BCBA. “What we have built over two editions is not merely an event, but a platform where the customs broker’s voice is heard, respected and woven into the national agenda. That is the legacy we intend to carry forward.” The intellectual heart of the Conclave lay in its four business sessions, each a moderated plenary of national stature. Session 1, “India 2030, 2035, 2047 — A Roadmap for Viksit Bharat,” was moderated by Mr Shantanu Bhadkamkar and brought together Shri Yogendra Garg, Member (Customs), CBIC; Mr Shailesh Haribhakti, eminent voice on economy and governance; Capt. Deepak Tiwari of MSC India and CSLA; Dr Prasad Pradhan, senior strategy and resilience advisor; and Mr Rahul Ahluwalia, Director & Co-Founder, Foundation for Economic Development. Session 2, “Building India’s Digital Spine — Customs & Trade,” was moderated by Mr Dushyant Mulani. The panel comprised Shri Anupam Prakash, Joint Secretary, Customs; Shri Gaurav Dayal, IAS, Chairman, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority; Shri Parvinder Singh, Managing Director, Hans Infomatic; Mr Kunal Maheshwari, Director, Softlink Global; Mr Faisal Khan, Foundation for Economic Development; and Mr Amit Kamat, Chairman, FFFAI. “Custom Brokers are now playing a nodal role in India’s EXIM Logistics, they are quiet backbone of India’s trade, and forums like this one finally give that contribution the recognition it deserves,” said Mr Dushyant Mulani, Immediate Past President, BCBA. “Keeping National interest of being Globally Competitive it is imperative that government and trade sit at the same table as partners to conceptualise further trade facilitation measures to ensure the entire ecosystem moves faster — and that partnership is the real achievement of this Conclave.” Session 3, “Geopolitics and the New Geometry of Trade,” was moderated by Mr Tej Contractor and featured Dr Pritam Banerjee of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade; Mr Sachin Vijan, Vanguard Logistics Services; Mr Fardeen Malbarwalla, Galaxy Freight; Mr S. Mahesh Mahalingam, Head — EXIM, Larsen & Toubro; and Dr Rumki Majumdar, Director & Economist, Deloitte India. Session 4, “Policy and Infrastructure — Building India’s Futuristic Logistics Ecosystem,” was moderated by Mr Mihir Parekh of the Foundation for Economic Development, who served as moderator cum panellist. The session brought together Shri Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Commissioner General, JNCH; Shri Ravish Kumar Singh, IRTS, Deputy Chairman, JNPA; Shri Sagar Rameshrao Kadu, Director (Logistics Division), DPIIT; Dr Rekha Raikar Kumar, Senior Advisor, Land Port Authority of India; and Mr Rajiv Chohan, Aegis Vopak Group. The Valedictory Session, themed “Logisticians — Building a Better India,” offered an inspiring close. It was led by Mr Dhimant Parekh, Founder & CEO of The Better India — the world’s largest positive-impact storytelling platform — and Mr S. Ramakrishna, Past Chairman of FFFAI, who reflected on conviction, reinvention and the logistician’s role in nation building. “This Conclave reaffirmed that the customs broker and freight forwarder are not mere facilitators, but true partners in India’s growth story,” said Mr Sanjeev Harale, President, BCBA." The participation of the highest echelons of government and industry, and the warmth of over 550 delegates, is a powerful testament to the strength of our fraternity and our shared resolve to drive India towards Viksit Bharat.” The Conclave was made possible by the generous support of its partners. The BCBA extends profound gratitude to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (Platinum Sponsor); Navi Mumbai International Airport and MPRS Shipping (Diamond Sponsors); Softlink Global Private Limited (Gold Sponsor); and Reliance Industries Limited (Silver Sponsor). The Association also acknowledges Parekh Global (Lunch Sponsor); Conex CFS, Polaris CFS and Globicon CFS (Delegate Kit Sponsors); Galaxy Freight (Seat Sponsor); Mumbai Cargo Service Center (Lanyard Sponsor); and Unifo (Hi-Tea Sponsor); and DBS Bank (Banking Partner). The BCBA further thanks our Bronze and Associate Sponsors, along with its Media Partners and supporting organisations, whose collective faith — despite a challenging global environment — was vital to the success of the event. As the second edition closed, the BCBA expressed deep appreciation to every delegate, dignitary, speaker, moderator and partner who made the day a success. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a unifying voice for the fraternity and advancing the national conversation on India’s logistics future. About BCBA: The BCBA, established in 1939, is one of India’s oldest and most respected representative bodies for customs brokers, serving as a unifying voice for the customs, trade and logistics fraternity. For media enquiries, please contact the BCBA.

Strengthening its presence across India's logistics landscape, KSH Integrated Logistics has announced its entry into Eastern India with the launch of a new Grade-A warehousing facility in Kolkata. The 60,000 sq ft multi-client distribution centre marks a strategic milestone for the company as it seeks to build a stronger supply chain network capable of supporting businesses across Eastern and North-Eastern India. The expansion comes amid growing demand for organised warehousing and integrated logistics services in the region, driven by rising consumption, industrial activity and the rapid growth of e-commerce and manufacturing sectors. Kolkata's position as a key commercial gateway makes it an increasingly important hub for companies looking to improve market access and distribution efficiency across eastern states. With the new facility, KSH aims to provide customers with scalable warehousing solutions that eliminate the need for large capital investments in dedicated infrastructure. The multi-client model allows businesses to optimise storage and distribution operations while benefiting from shared logistics resources and technology-enabled processes. The warehouse is expected to serve a diverse customer base spanning FMCG, FMCD, fintech, industrial products and other sectors that rely on efficient inventory management and timely product movement. By combining warehousing, transportation and value-added services under a single platform, the company intends to help customers streamline supply chain operations and improve responsiveness to market demand. According to Vinay Patil, Chief Executive Officer of KSH Integrated Logistics, Eastern India represents an important growth corridor for the logistics industry. He noted that businesses today are increasingly looking for partners that can provide both operational flexibility and nationwide reach. The Kolkata facility, he said, is a key step in KSH's long-term strategy to develop a connected logistics network capable of supporting evolving customer requirements across India. Beyond conventional storage services, the facility will offer a range of supply chain solutions including pre-packing, kitting, MRP labelling, inventory customisation and other value-added activities designed to improve operational efficiency. The centre is supported by advanced Warehouse Management System (WMS) and Transportation Management System (TMS) platforms, enabling real-time inventory visibility, faster order processing and enhanced control over logistics operations. Technology remains a central pillar of the company's expansion strategy. The deployment of digital tools is expected to improve inventory accuracy, strengthen operational transparency and support data-driven decision-making across the supply chain. Sustainability has also been incorporated into the facility's operating model. KSH plans to utilise electric vehicles for last-mile deliveries, helping reduce carbon emissions while improving urban distribution efficiency. The warehouse has additionally been equipped with modern safety infrastructure, including automatic sprinkler systems, hydrants and other fire protection measures aligned with industry standards. Apart from strengthening regional logistics infrastructure, the project is expected to create more than 100 direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing to local economic activity and workforce development. The Kolkata launch further expands KSH Integrated Logistics' pan-India network and reinforces its focus on integrated supply chain solutions. As businesses increasingly seek agile, technology-driven logistics partners, the company continues to invest in warehousing, transportation and distribution capabilities that can support growth across multiple industries. With Eastern India emerging as one of the country's most promising logistics markets, KSH's latest investment reflects the growing importance of regional distribution hubs in building faster, more resilient and customer-centric supply chains.

The UK government’s renewed push to expand Heathrow Airport has placed air cargo capacity and trade growth at the heart of the long-debated infrastructure project, signalling significant opportunities for the logistics and supply chain sector. A revised policy framework and accompanying transport vision document published by the Department for Transport underline Heathrow’s strategic role as the UK’s largest air freight gateway. The updated plans support the construction of a third runway and associated airport infrastructure, with policymakers emphasizing that expansion is critical to strengthening the country’s global trade connectivity and long-term economic competitiveness. According to the government, an expanded Heathrow would enhance access to international markets, improve supply chain resilience and support future growth in high-value exports. Freight carried in aircraft bellyholds remains a vital component of UK trade, particularly for sectors such as pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, electronics and perishables. The revised vision highlights the need for improved cargo handling facilities, better surface transport links and increased airport capacity to accommodate growing demand for air freight. Industry stakeholders have long argued that Heathrow’s current capacity constraints limit opportunities for airlines to add new long-haul routes and cargo services. Expansion is expected to unlock additional flight slots, creating greater flexibility for both passenger and freight operations. Heathrow has previously stated that a third runway could significantly increase the airport’s cargo-handling capability, helping the UK capture a larger share of global trade flows. The government’s draft policy statement also positions Heathrow expansion as a national economic project capable of supporting jobs, investment and supply chain development across the country. Business groups have welcomed the focus on trade, noting that Heathrow already handles a substantial portion of the UK’s air cargo by value and serves as a critical gateway for exporters. However, the proposal continues to face scrutiny from environmental groups, local authorities and some policymakers. Critics have raised concerns about emissions, noise pollution and broader social impacts associated with a third runway. Recent government assessments have also sparked debate over the scale of the project’s overall economic benefits, although supporters argue that traditional evaluations do not fully capture the long-term value of enhanced connectivity and cargo growth. The publication of the revised policy framework marks another important milestone in Heathrow’s expansion journey. Subject to consultations, environmental assessments and planning approvals, the government aims to create a pathway for future development while balancing economic, environmental and community considerations. For the logistics sector, the proposal represents a potentially transformative opportunity to expand the UK’s air cargo capacity and strengthen its position within global supply chains. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Brihanmumbai Custom Brokers’ Association (BCBA), the apex body of the customs-broking fraternity in Mumbai, successfully hosted the second edition of its flagship policy forum, the India Logistics Conclave 2026, on June 17, 2026, at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. Building on the massive success of the inaugural 2024 edition, the high-profile, single-day gathering united over 550 industry stakeholders, senior policymakers, and logistics leaders. The landmark event was held under the powerful theme, “One Fraternity, One Vision — Logistics Driving India Towards Viksit Bharat.” Designed as a coherent dialogue on the transformative forces reshaping India’s trade-and-logistics ecosystem, the conclave focused heavily on digital customs, the strategic "China Plus One" opportunity, Free Trade Agreement (FTA) utilisation, infrastructure delivery policies, and the evolving role of the licensed intermediary. The core discussions reflected the BCBA’s firm conviction that customs brokers and freight forwarders have transitioned from traditional back-office facilitators into front-line, equal growth partners in the nation’s economic story. Underscoring this vision, the association’s leadership emphasised the sector's crucial contribution to national development. Mr. Sanjeev Harale, President of BCBA, highlighted that with falling logistics costs and maturing policies, the sector now sits at the heart of national growth, requiring stakeholders to actively shape industry changes. Mr. Dushyant Mulani, Immediate Past President, noted that the conclave has evolved from an idea in 2024 into a powerful movement, proving the fraternity's readiness to sit at the high table of national policy. Further reinforcing this stance, Mr. Paresh Thakkar, Senior Vice President, described the customs broker as the vital thread holding the entire EXIM chain together, declaring their commitment to leading, innovating, and helping build the Viksit Bharat of 2047. The prestigious Inaugural Session brought together an eminent cross-section of leaders from Indian Customs and the country’s premier ports ecosystem. The distinguished dais featured key government and port authority heads, including Shri Yogendra Garg, Member (Customs), CBIC; Shri Gaurav Dayal, IAS, Chairman, JNPA; Dr M Angamuthu, IAS, Chairman, Mumbai Port Authority; and Shri Shyam Jagannathan, IAS, Director General of Shipping. Joining them were industry captains Capt. Deepak Tiwari, Managing Director, MSC India and Chairman, CSLA; Capt. BVJK Sharma, CEO, Navi Mumbai International Airport; and Shri Niraj Ambani, Group President — Supply Chain, Reliance Industries. Additionally, Shri Vivek Chaturvedi, Chairman, CBIC, addressed the massive gathering online, while the session also took the opportunity to felicitate industry veterans for their distinguished, lifelong contributions to the EXIM community. Throughout the day, panel sessions drew prominent voices from policy, shipping lines, terminals, and academia to deliberate on the long-horizon roadmap for Viksit Bharat 2047. The conclave concluded with a highly impactful Valedictory Session titled “Custom Brokers and Freight Forwarders — Growth Partners.” The concluding keynote address was delivered by Mr. Dhimant Parekh, Founder of The Better India, who emphasised the critical role of brokers as front-line trade-facilitation partners within the CBIC, DGFT, and PGA frameworks.   For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.  

A potential US-Iran peace agreement and the easing of sanctions on Tehran could breathe new life into India’s long-standing investment in Iran’s Chabahar Port, a strategic logistics hub that offers New Delhi direct access to Afghanistan, Central Asia and beyond. Recent diplomatic developments between Washington and Tehran, including commitments to restore maritime trade and ease restrictions, are being viewed as a significant opportunity for regional connectivity and supply chain diversification. For India, Chabahar has always been more than a port project. Situated on Iran’s southeastern coast along the Gulf of Oman, the port serves as a critical gateway that bypasses Pakistan and provides access to landlocked markets in Afghanistan and Central Asia. It is also a key component of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multimodal trade route linking India with Eurasian markets. However, progress at Chabahar has repeatedly been hampered by US sanctions on Iran. The expiry of sanctions waivers and heightened geopolitical tensions over the past year created uncertainty around investments, insurance coverage, banking transactions and port operations, slowing the project’s momentum. The emerging US-Iran understanding could change that landscape. The proposed agreement includes provisions aimed at restoring freedom of navigation, reopening trade routes and gradually lifting sanctions linked to Iran’s economy and maritime sector. Such measures could improve investor confidence, facilitate financing and enable smoother cargo movement through Iranian ports. Industry observers believe renewed stability in the region could strengthen Chabahar’s role as a regional logistics hub. The port has the potential to become a crucial node for Indian exports heading to Central Asia and Russia while supporting alternative supply chains that reduce dependence on traditional maritime corridors. Greater activity at Chabahar could also complement India’s broader connectivity strategy and enhance resilience against geopolitical disruptions. Beyond logistics, the agreement could also support India’s energy security. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the return of Iranian oil to global markets are expected to improve supply availability and ease freight uncertainties across key shipping lanes. Lower energy costs and smoother maritime operations would further benefit trade and transportation sectors. While the final contours of the US-Iran arrangement remain under negotiation, the prospect of reduced sanctions and greater regional stability has revived hopes that Chabahar can finally fulfil its promise as India’s strategic gateway to Central Asia and a vital link in emerging Eurasian supply chains. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!