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NITI Aayog and Germany’s international cooperation agency, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, have signed an implementation agreement to accelerate the decarbonisation of India's road freight sector, with a focus on promoting electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The agreement was signed on November 3, 2026, under the second phase of the Nationally Determined Contribution–Transport Initiative for Asia (NDC-TIA II). The regional initiative is supported by the German Government's International Climate Initiative (IKI) and aims to support participating countries in reducing transport-related emissions and advancing their climate commitments. The collaboration comes at a time when India is seeking to transition towards a more sustainable, energy-efficient and low-carbon transportation ecosystem. Road freight remains critical to the country's supply chain and logistics operations, making the adoption of cleaner commercial vehicles an important part of its broader decarbonisation strategy. However, the electrification of medium- and heavy-duty freight vehicles remains at an early stage. Limited charging infrastructure, high upfront vehicle costs, access to financing and the need for supportive regulations continue to present challenges to wider adoption. The NITI Aayog–GIZ partnership will focus on addressing these structural barriers by supporting the development of adequate charging infrastructure, exploring innovative financing mechanisms and strengthening the regulatory framework required to facilitate electric truck deployment. The initiative brings together several knowledge and implementation partners, including World Resources Institute (WRI) India, the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) India and Agora Energiewende. Their participation is expected to support policy development, technical expertise and coordinated efforts towards cleaner freight transportation. The regional programme also covers China and Vietnam, encouraging collaboration on transport decarbonisation across Asia. For India's logistics industry, the partnership could help create a more conducive environment for fleet electrification, particularly across high-volume freight corridors connecting manufacturing centres, ports and distribution hubs. Improved charging access and financing options will be essential to building confidence among fleet operators and logistics service providers. The agreement marks another step in India's efforts to advance green freight mobility, strengthen energy efficiency and meet its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets. By addressing infrastructure, financing and policy challenges together, the collaboration aims to support the gradual transition towards a commercially viable and lower-emission road freight ecosystem. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Pacific International Lines (PIL) has placed an order for seven 1,400-TEU container vessels with China’s Huanghai Shipbuilding, as part of its ongoing fleet renewal and expansion programme. The new vessels are expected to strengthen PIL’s network capabilities and operational efficiency, particularly across its Intra-Asia and Pacific Islands services. Designed to serve the requirements of these regional markets, the ships will measure 172 metres in length and 25 metres in width, with dimensions customised to maximise vessel size while retaining the flexibility to connect smaller ports with key transhipment hubs across PIL’s network. The methanol-ready vessels will also support the company’s decarbonisation strategy, enabling the potential adoption of lower-emission fuels as availability and supporting infrastructure develop. “Investing in these new feeder vessels will strengthen our capabilities and capacity across the Intra-Asia and Pacific Islands network. These ships, equipped with energy-saving technologies and designed to be methanol-ready, will further optimise our operations while supporting our goal of net zero emissions by 2050,” said Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL. He added that the vessels will incorporate modern technological features and digital capabilities to support more efficient operations and performance monitoring, helping PIL provide customers with wider services and sustainable shipping solutions. The ships will feature energy-saving technologies, including pre-swirl vanes and propeller boss cap fins, designed to improve propulsion efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Enhanced cargo safety systems will include fixed fire water monitors and cargo hold water spray systems to strengthen onboard firefighting capabilities. The vessels are scheduled for delivery between 2029 and 2030. PIL selected Huanghai Shipbuilding for its technical capabilities, experience and ability to meet the company’s requirements for quality, efficiency and delivery.
India’s warehousing and industrial real estate market recorded continued expansion in the first nine months of 2026, with net absorption across the top eight cities increasing 16.2% year on year to 49.5 million sq ft, compared with 42.6 million sq ft in the corresponding period of 2025. Cumulative net absorption between 2021 and 9M 2026 reached 266.5 million sq ft, reflecting sustained occupier demand. However, growth remains concentrated in a handful of markets, with rental appreciation and vacancy levels varying significantly by city. According to Peush Jain, Managing Director – Commercial Leasing & Advisory, ANAROCK Group, the National Capital Region (NCR), Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and Pune together accounted for nearly 58% of cumulative absorption across the top eight cities. NCR led with a 21.8% share of cumulative absorption, followed by MMR at 18.5% and Pune at 17.4%. Pune has moved ahead of Bengaluru, which accounted for 15.1%. Chennai contributed 10.7%, Kolkata 7.7%, while Hyderabad and Ahmedabad each accounted for 4.4% NCR Records the Sharpest Rental Appreciation The average monthly warehousing rent across the top eight cities stood at ₹28.1 per sq ft in Q3 2026, representing a 27% increase since 2021. NCR recorded the steepest rise, with average monthly rents increasing 49% from ₹22.2 per sq ft in 2021 to ₹33 per sq ft in Q3 2026. The pace of appreciation accelerated in recent years: rents rose 3% between 2021 and 2023, before increasing 44% from 2023 to Q3 2026. MMR continued to command the highest average rent at ₹43.9 per sq ft per month, more than twice Ahmedabad’s ₹19 per sq ft—the lowest among the eight markets. Hyderabad, MMR and Bengaluru recorded rental increases of 30% or more since 2021. Pune, Chennai and Ahmedabad saw more moderate growth of 17%, 19% and 20%, respectively. Vacancy Levels Diverge across Markets The national vacancy rate stood at 7.9% as of 9M 2026, with availability varying across cities. Pune recorded the lowest vacancy rate at 6.8%, followed by Chennai and Kolkata at 7.1% each, NCR at 7.3% and MMR at 7.6%. Bengaluru reported the highest vacancy at 11.5%, followed by Ahmedabad at 11% and Hyderabad at 9.2%. The data points to differing market dynamics. Bengaluru’s relatively high vacancy has coexisted with a 30% increase in rents since 2021, while Pune, despite having the tightest market, recorded the slowest rental growth. Jain said rental performance depends on factors beyond vacancy, including the quality and location of available stock, occupier requirements and the nature of industrial activity in each market. Sectoral Demand reflects City-Level Specialisation At the national level, third-party logistics (3PL) accounted for 26% of warehousing demand, followed by manufacturing at 22% and automotive at 10%. Together, 3PL and manufacturing contributed nearly half of total demand. City-level demand profiles reflect distinct industrial and logistics specialisations. MMR remains strongly logistics-oriented, with 3PL accounting for 40% of its warehousing demand. Pune’s demand is led by manufacturing at 32% and automotive at 22%. The city also accounted for 37% of automotive-sector warehousing absorption across the top eight cities between 2021 and Q3 2026. In Chennai, electronics contributed 14% of warehousing demand—the highest share for the segment among the eight cities. Hyderabad’s demand is more manufacturing-led, with the sector accounting for 31%, while 3PL contributed 13%, the lowest share among the analysed markets. Kolkata also has a logistics-oriented profile, with 3PL accounting for 36% of demand. NCR’s demand is more diversified, led by 3PL at 26%, manufacturing at 17% and retail at 13%. In Ahmedabad, 3PL, manufacturing and automotive contributed 28%, 22% and 21%, respectively. Market Fundamentals to Shape the Next Phase The findings indicate that India’s warehousing market is expanding, but the benefits are unevenly distributed. NCR stands out for rental appreciation, Pune combines a significant share of absorption with the lowest vacancy, and MMR continues to command a rental premium. Bengaluru, meanwhile, has a comparatively higher level of available space despite substantial rental growth. Jain said city-level industrial specialisation, logistics requirements, the availability of suitable warehousing stock and the balance between new supply and occupier demand will be key determinants of future performance. These differences, he added, may influence location and cost decisions for occupiers, while developers and investors will need to assess individual market fundamentals rather than rely solely on national demand growth. As India’s warehousing market enters its next expansionary phase, the composition of industrial demand and availability of suitable space are likely to matter as much as headline absorption growth.
Indian Railways has registered its highest-ever freight loading for October, transporting 145.07 million tonnes (MT) of goods in October 2026, marking an 8.32% year-on-year increase over the 133.93 MT recorded in October 2025. The record performance reflects rising freight demand across key sectors, including agriculture, power, steel, cement and manufacturing, strengthening the rail network's role in India's logistics and supply chain ecosystem. According to the Ministry of Railways, the network handled an additional 11.14 MT of freight during the month compared with the corresponding period last year. The growth was supported by higher transportation volumes across several major commodity categories, with food grains and domestic coal emerging as the strongest contributors. Food grain loading registered the highest growth among the reported commodities, increasing 26.3% year-on-year. Domestic coal transportation rose 16%, while the balance other goods category recorded an 11% increase. Clinker loading, an important input for cement manufacturing, grew 10.4%, reflecting sustained movement of construction-related materials. Other commodity segments also reported positive growth. Domestic container traffic increased 6.3%, while iron ore loading rose 5%. Mineral oil and finished steel registered comparatively moderate growth of 1.9% and 0.5%, respectively. The increase in container volumes also indicates continued demand for rail-based freight movement for domestic cargo transportation. A significant component of October's freight performance was the increased movement of domestic coal to power plants. To meet higher requirements from power houses, Indian Railways supplied an average of 469.8 coal rakes per day during October 2026, compared with 393.2 rakes per day in October 2025. This represents a growth of 19.5%, translating into approximately 77 additional coal rakes daily. The increase highlights the importance of rail transportation in maintaining fuel supply chains and supporting uninterrupted power generation. Efficient coal movement remains a critical operational priority, particularly amid rising energy requirements from industrial and economic activities. The strong October performance has further strengthened Indian Railways' cumulative freight loading during the ongoing financial year. Between April and October 2026, the national transporter handled 978.78 MT of freight, compared with 935.10 MT during the corresponding seven-month period of the previous financial year, registering growth of 4.67%. The network's expanding freight volumes underline the importance of capacity augmentation, improved terminal infrastructure and operational efficiency in supporting India's growing cargo requirements. Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), improved freight handling facilities and stronger connectivity between industrial centres, ports and consumption markets remain important components of the country's rail logistics development. Therefore, the latest figures highlight the growing contribution of railways to bulk cargo transportation and domestic supply chain connectivity for the logistics industry. Sustained growth in freight loading will be important in strengthening multimodal transportation, improving cargo movement efficiency and supporting India's long-term logistics competitiveness. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
NITI Aayog and Germany’s international cooperation agency, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, have signed an implementation agreement to accelerate the decarbonisation of India's road freight sector, with a focus on promoting electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The agreement was signed on November 3, 2026, under the second phase of the Nationally Determined Contribution–Transport Initiative for Asia (NDC-TIA II). The regional initiative is supported by the German Government's International Climate Initiative (IKI) and aims to support participating countries in reducing transport-related emissions and advancing their climate commitments. The collaboration comes at a time when India is seeking to transition towards a more sustainable, energy-efficient and low-carbon transportation ecosystem. Road freight remains critical to the country's supply chain and logistics operations, making the adoption of cleaner commercial vehicles an important part of its broader decarbonisation strategy. However, the electrification of medium- and heavy-duty freight vehicles remains at an early stage. Limited charging infrastructure, high upfront vehicle costs, access to financing and the need for supportive regulations continue to present challenges to wider adoption. The NITI Aayog–GIZ partnership will focus on addressing these structural barriers by supporting the development of adequate charging infrastructure, exploring innovative financing mechanisms and strengthening the regulatory framework required to facilitate electric truck deployment. The initiative brings together several knowledge and implementation partners, including World Resources Institute (WRI) India, the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) India and Agora Energiewende. Their participation is expected to support policy development, technical expertise and coordinated efforts towards cleaner freight transportation. The regional programme also covers China and Vietnam, encouraging collaboration on transport decarbonisation across Asia. For India's logistics industry, the partnership could help create a more conducive environment for fleet electrification, particularly across high-volume freight corridors connecting manufacturing centres, ports and distribution hubs. Improved charging access and financing options will be essential to building confidence among fleet operators and logistics service providers. The agreement marks another step in India's efforts to advance green freight mobility, strengthen energy efficiency and meet its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets. By addressing infrastructure, financing and policy challenges together, the collaboration aims to support the gradual transition towards a commercially viable and lower-emission road freight ecosystem. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
MSN Air Service LLC (MSN), a New York-based aviation and cargo handling company operating at John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK), has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kalé Info Solutions to deploy its GALAXY cargo handling platform as the standard technology system across all new stations established as part of its international expansion. Announced at The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) Air Cargo Forum in Miami, the agreement comes as MSN expands beyond its JFK base, with a new operational station at Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Guyana. Under the MoU, GALAXY will continue to be used at JFK and will be deployed at every new MSN station, providing a common digital platform to support operational consistency, visibility and scalability across its expanding network. GALAXY integrates import, export and transfer operations within a single cargo handling system, enabling handlers to monitor terminal activities while reducing manual processes and reliance on disconnected systems. Manoj Singh, Group Chief Executive Officer, MSN Air Service, said the company’s international growth strategy is centred on building a future-ready business through technology investments and stronger operational capabilities. He added that adopting GALAXY across its network would help establish a common technology foundation as MSN enters new markets. Amar More, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Kalé Info Solutions, said a standardised technology platform could help manage the operational complexity associated with international expansion. He noted that consistent workflows, real-time visibility and comparable performance data across locations would allow handlers to scale operations without rebuilding processes at each new station. The partnership reflects MSN’s approach of integrating technology into its expansion plans from the outset, with GALAXY intended to provide a consistent digital foundation for its international cargo handling operations.
Qatar Airways Cargo is expanding its global freight network for the Winter 2026 season, introducing dedicated freighter services from Copenhagen, New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Dallas, while establishing a direct Warsaw–Chicago connection. The additions are set to increase cargo capacity, strengthen transatlantic trade links and provide customers with improved access to global markets through the carrier’s Doha hub. The network expansion, commencing from late October and early November 2026, targets key export markets across Northern and Central Europe and the United States. By combining dedicated Boeing 777 freighters with capacity on Qatar Airways’ passenger services, the carrier aims to provide greater flexibility for a broad range of freight, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare products, aerospace components, technology, energy shipments, perishables, vehicles and oversized cargo. Strengthening Nordic and Central European Connectivity Effective 25 October, Qatar Airways Cargo will introduce a weekly Boeing 777 freighter service from Copenhagen, operating Doha–Budapest–Copenhagen–Doha. The service will provide 100 tonnes of dedicated export capacity, strengthening the carrier’s reach across Denmark and Southern Sweden. The new freighter operation will complement Qatar Airways’ 10 weekly Boeing 787 passenger services to Copenhagen, which collectively provide more than 100 tonnes of belly-hold cargo capacity in each direction per week. Through Doha, customers will gain onward connections to markets across Asia, the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, Africa and beyond. In Central Europe, the carrier will relaunch freighter operations to Warsaw from 26 October, adding a weekly direct connection from Warsaw to Chicago. The Boeing 777 service will operate Doha–Warsaw–Chicago–Brussels–Doha, offering Polish exporters and manufacturers additional dedicated capacity to the US market. Combined with twice-weekly freighter services to Katowice and 10 weekly wide-body passenger flights to Warsaw, the new operation will increase Qatar Airways Cargo’s total weekly capacity to and from Poland to more than 435 tonnes in each direction. Expanding Transatlantic Freight Capacity In North America, a new weekly Boeing 777 freighter service to New York JFK will commence on 1 November, operating Doha–Liège–New York–Atlanta–Liège–Doha. The service will supplement 14 weekly passenger flights to and from New York, taking the carrier’s total weekly cargo capacity on the market to more than 226 tonnes in each direction. Dallas is also gaining additional dedicated freighter capacity. Qatar Airways Cargo has recently introduced two weekly Boeing 777 freighter services operating Doha–Liège–Dallas–Doha, providing 200 tonnes of main-deck capacity into Dallas and 100 tonnes outbound. Together with 14 weekly wide-body passenger flights, the new operation will raise total weekly cargo capacity to more than 250 tonnes into Dallas and over 150 tonnes out of the city. The expanded offering is intended to strengthen trade links between Texas and markets served across the airline’s international network. Capacity for Diverse and Time-Sensitive Cargo The additional services will cater to a wide spectrum of industries, including pharmaceuticals and healthcare, aerospace, technology, energy, perishables, high-value and time-sensitive shipments, vehicles, oversized freight, and general and industrial cargo. Customers will also benefit from increased belly-hold capacity across Qatar Airways’ Winter 2026 passenger network, further broadening the options available for moving shipments across international markets. With the new routes, expanded frequencies and connectivity through Doha, Qatar Airways Cargo is strengthening its capacity offering across Europe and North America while linking customers to a global network spanning more than 160 destinations. Shipments can be booked through the carrier’s Digital Lounge portal or its omnichannel partner network.
Indore: Indian Railways is preparing to operate the country’s first hydrogen-powered train at speeds of up to 110 kmph, following successful trials at speeds of 120 kmph, Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar said on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered train on July 17, marking a significant step in the Railways’ efforts to introduce cleaner propulsion technologies. The train operates on the 89-km Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana. Unlike conventional electric trains that rely on overhead power lines, the hydrogen fuel-cell trainset generates electricity onboard through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The process produces water vapour and heat as by-products, eliminating combustion, smoke and tailpipe carbon emissions. The hydrogen train is part of Indian Railways’ broader efforts to explore alternative propulsion technologies and reduce emissions from rail operations. Its deployment could also offer a pathway for cleaner rail connectivity on routes where conventional electrification may be less practical. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates
Chapman Freeborn has successfully completed a time-sensitive cargo charter operation transporting oversized oilfield equipment from China to Saudi Arabia, supporting urgent replenishment requirements for a client in the oil and gas sector amid ongoing global shipping disruptions and airfreight congestion. The operation involved the movement of nearly 90 tonnes of cargo, including industrial pumps, precision spare parts and oversized equipment measuring up to eight metres in length. The shipment was transported aboard a Boeing 747 Freighter, selected for its main-deck capacity and ability to handle heavy and outsized freight. The project required complex logistical coordination after fuelling constraints at the original departure airport necessitated the cargo’s relocation inland to an alternative airport. Chapman Freeborn’s China team arranged overnight trucking and managed the freight forwarding process to maintain delivery timelines. The charter operation was further challenged by limited aircraft availability, routing restrictions and slot coordination requirements at destination. Despite the operational complexities, the cargo arrived on schedule, enabling uninterrupted onward movement and preventing disruptions to the client’s ongoing field operations. The project highlights the growing role of specialised air charter solutions in supporting critical industrial supply chains where speed, flexibility and operational coordination remain essential.
India is preparing to operationalise its trade agreement with Oman from June 1, as New Delhi accelerates efforts to secure alternative trade corridors and strengthen supply chain resilience amid continuing geopolitical and energy market uncertainty. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said discussions with Omani officials have progressed positively, with both sides moving toward implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The agreement, signed in December 2025, is expected to provide duty-free access for a large share of Indian exports to Oman, including engineering goods, textiles, food products and chemicals. In return, India will lower tariffs on several Omani exports, including petrochemical products and minerals. Trade and logistics stakeholders view the pact as strategically important for India’s westbound cargo movement and regional connectivity ambitions. Oman’s geographic position along major maritime routes in the Arabian Sea and Gulf region gives Indian exporters an additional gateway into West Asia and parts of Africa. The agreement is also expected to support warehousing, port-led trade and multimodal logistics integration between the two countries. Government officials indicated that the CEPA would cover more than 98% of Indian export tariff lines entering Oman, while India would gradually liberalise access across a significant portion of imports from Oman. Certain sectors, particularly petrochemicals, may see phased tariff reductions rather than immediate elimination. The push to activate the Oman pact comes as India expands its broader trade strategy through multiple bilateral agreements aimed at reducing dependence on concentrated supply chains and improving market access for domestic manufacturers. Recent discussions involving trade arrangements with the UK, EU and other partners have reinforced New Delhi’s emphasis on export diversification and trade-led industrial growth. Industry analysts expect the Oman agreement to particularly benefit Indian sectors linked to containerised exports, chemicals, automotive components, processed foods and MSME manufacturing clusters. Shipping and logistics companies are also likely to see increased cargo flows through western Indian ports as bilateral trade volumes rise under preferential tariff treatment. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
India’s two largest container gateways, Mundra and Nhava Sheva, are facing mounting congestion as rising cargo volumes, truck driver shortages and rerouted shipments from the Middle East strain operations across the country’s logistics network. Shipping lines and logistics operators are reporting worsening turnaround times at both ports, with vessel delays averaging nearly two and a half days and some unscheduled ships waiting up to five days for berthing. The disruptions are slowing cargo movement, tightening yard space and forcing carriers to make last-minute operational changes. According to industry reports, a shortage of truck drivers has become a major bottleneck for container transfers between terminals and inland transport hubs. The issue has reduced the pace of cargo evacuation from ports, adding pressure on already crowded container yards. Terminal operators have intermittently restricted gate access to control container inflow, while export gate schedules continue to shift frequently. These changes are complicating truck planning and increasing uncertainty for exporters and freight forwarders. The congestion is being intensified by cargo diversions linked to disruptions in the Middle East, particularly around Gulf trade routes. Shipping lines have increasingly redirected transshipment cargo to Indian ports as alternatives to facilities in the Persian Gulf, sharply increasing container volumes in recent weeks. The pressure has begun affecting carrier schedules. Some shipping companies are rerouting vessels between terminals at short notice to avoid yard congestion. Danish shipping giant Maersk recently shifted several sailings from its regular terminal at Nhava Sheva to PSA Mumbai after facing space constraints and a growing container backlog. Industry stakeholders say these sudden terminal changes are creating operational and financial challenges for shippers, including higher handling costs and difficulties coordinating customs clearance and inland transportation. The latest disruption comes at a time when India has been positioning itself as a major global manufacturing and logistics hub. Over the past decade, the country has expanded port capacity, improved freight corridors and modernised customs processes to strengthen supply chain efficiency. However, the current congestion highlights the vulnerability of port infrastructure during periods of sudden trade realignment and geopolitical disruption. Logistics experts warn that prolonged delays could increase freight costs, extend delivery timelines and place additional pressure on exporters already dealing with volatile global shipping conditions. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
The diversification process by Apple continues to progress as India becomes one of the centers for manufacturing operations. Based on an analysis by Smart Analytics Global (SAG), the percentage share of Indian manufacturing of iPhones has increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025 and further to 28% by 2026, whereas China’s share has decreased from 83% to 74% within the same timeframe. As Apple continues to lower its reliance on China, India is all set to emerge as the major assembly hub for 28 percent of all iPhones exported around the world by 2026, compared to just 23 percent in the prior year. This change is due to the company's overall strategy of spreading its manufacturing operations in order to mitigate potential tariff risks and geopolitical risks, in addition to creating a more flexible manufacturing network beyond China. Based on the estimates of Smart Analytics Global (SAG), China's share in global iPhone production dropped from 83% in 2024 to 74% in 2025, while India's share increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025. Estimates provided by another market research firm, Counterpoint Research, indicate that India's share in global iPhone manufacturing could increase to approximately 26% in 2026 from 23% in 2025. As per SAG, “India will account for the manufacture of 28 percent of iPhones shipped globally in 2026, rising from 23 percent in 2025. This growth will be fueled by the ongoing diversification of Apple outside China and capacity build-up at existing manufacturers in India like Tata Electronics,” said Abhilash Kumar, an analyst at Smart Analytics Global. According to Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research, “Apple's manufacturing partners have substantially increased their manufacturing capacities and assembly lines in India. They have also diversified their product portfolio made in India.” He further stated that the increase in manufacturing capacity of Tata Electronics is another factor aiding the growth. Apple has managed to localize production substantially in India through manufacturers like Foxconn and Tata Electronics. The recent takeover of Wistron and Pegatron in India by the Tata Group represents a huge step forward in Apple’s localization efforts in India. At present, India is assembling a larger number of iPhones, even the latest versions, and has become an important source of exports, targeting countries like the US and European nations. Over the past five years, Apple has manufactured iPhones worth almost $70 billion in India using its PLI scheme, where around $51 billion, or almost 73% of all iPhones manufactured, were exported from India. Moreover, iPhones have become the most exported goods from India during the previous financial year. India has become the biggest beneficiary of Apple’s changing supply chain. From initially assembling iPhones on a smaller scale, it has grown to become a manufacturing cluster for iPhones through government incentives, increased manufacturing capabilities, and the growing presence of suppliers. Several of the most important suppliers and manufacturers for Apple are still highly entrenched within China, allowing the country to enjoy an unrivaled capacity and adaptability when it comes to managing mass-scale productions and product shifts. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
Shadowfax is significantly expanding its quick commerce infrastructure, announcing plans to scale its dark store network from 15 facilities to 100 by FY27. The move underscores the company’s growing focus on hyperlocal deliveries, same-day fulfilment, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) logistics as competition intensifies in India’s fast-evolving quick commerce ecosystem. The Bengaluru-based company plans to add 85 new dark stores over the next fiscal year, targeting metro cities with delivery radiuses of approximately seven kilometres and fulfilment timelines of around 30 minutes. The expansion is expected to support rising demand from vertical quick commerce platforms and D2C brands that increasingly rely on third-party logistics (3PL) partners for rapid deliveries. According to company executives, vertical marketplaces are emerging as a profitable segment because of their dependence on outsourced logistics infrastructure rather than captive fulfilment networks. Shadowfax believes this trend creates a strong opportunity for scalable 3PL-led quick commerce models. The dark store expansion will account for nearly 10% of Shadowfax’s planned capital expenditure of ₹180–190 crore in FY27. The company is simultaneously strengthening its automation and artificial intelligence capabilities to improve operational efficiency. AI-led demand forecasting, automated slotting, and smarter sorting centre operations are expected to reduce overhead costs while accelerating breakeven timelines for new facilities. Shadowfax’s aggressive expansion comes on the back of strong financial performance. The company reported a consolidated net profit of ₹55.8 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to a net loss of ₹9.9 crore during the same period last year. Revenue from operations surged 73.6% year-on-year to ₹1,237 crore, reflecting growing order volumes and increased adoption of quick commerce delivery services. Founded in 2015, Shadowfax has evolved into one of India’s largest logistics and last-mile delivery networks, serving over 2,500 cities and more than 15,000 pincodes. The company currently handles millions of shipments daily through a technology-driven delivery ecosystem that supports e-commerce, grocery, hyperlocal, and D2C brands. Industry analysts believe the dark store expansion reflects a broader shift within India’s logistics sector, where speed, proximity-based fulfilment, and automated operations are becoming central to supply chain competitiveness. As quick commerce adoption accelerates beyond groceries into categories such as fashion, electronics, and personal care, logistics providers like Shadowfax are positioning themselves as critical enablers of ultra-fast retail fulfilment. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
India’s Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) are rapidly reshaping the country’s logistics landscape, with the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) between Dadri and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) emerging as a game-changing infrastructure project for supply chains and multimodal freight movement. Designed exclusively for cargo operations, the corridor is significantly reducing transit times, improving reliability, and easing congestion on conventional rail routes. Stretching nearly 1,500 km from Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to JNPA near Mumbai, the corridor forms the backbone of India’s western logistics artery, connecting manufacturing centres, inland container depots, industrial clusters, and ports. With dedicated tracks for freight trains, the network allows uninterrupted cargo movement at higher average speeds, eliminating delays caused by mixed passenger and freight operations. One of the biggest outcomes has been a sharp reduction in transit time. Freight movement between Dadri and JNPA that traditionally took close to 72 hours on congested rail routes is now being completed in nearly half the time, improving turnaround efficiency for exporters, importers, and logistics operators. Industry stakeholders believe the reduction in transit duration will strengthen India’s competitiveness in global trade and support the government’s target of lowering logistics costs as a percentage of GDP. The DFC network has also enabled the operation of longer and heavier freight trains, including double-stack container services on electrified routes. This has increased carrying capacity while lowering per-unit transportation costs. According to sector estimates, rail freight on dedicated corridors is considerably more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable than road transport, aligning with India’s broader decarbonisation goals. Beyond operational efficiency, the corridors are catalysing the growth of integrated logistics ecosystems. Regions such as Dadri, Greater Noida, and Jewar are witnessing accelerated development of multimodal logistics parks, warehousing zones, and industrial hubs due to their strategic connectivity with both the Eastern and Western DFCs. The emerging “rail-road-air” logistics triangle around the National Capital Region is expected to attract substantial investments in manufacturing and distribution infrastructure. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has reported rising freight train volumes on the operational stretches, indicating growing industry adoption. The completion of key links on the western corridor is expected to further enhance throughput and reduce dependency on road transport for long-haul cargo. Analysts say the dedicated rail network could become central to India’s ambition of creating faster, greener, and more resilient supply chains. As India continues investing in additional freight corridors across the country, the success of the Dadri-JNPA route demonstrates how infrastructure modernisation can directly influence trade efficiency, logistics performance, and industrial growth. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬
In a strategic warehousing move, the South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), the second largest coal-producing subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) for collaboration in coal logistics, railway rake provisioning under GPWIS and similar schemes, and integrated transportation services. Guided by the Union Ministry of Coal, SECL is rapidly working to improve India’s energy security and coal logistics infrastructure. The company is taking steps to boost coal evacuation efficiency and ensure a steady fuel supply to essential sectors. This partnership with CWC is a significant move in that direction. The goal of the partnership with CWC is to strengthen SECL’s coal evacuation capabilities by providing reliable and efficient rail logistics solutions to meet the rising demand from the power, steel, cement, and other sectors. The MoU outlines collaboration in various areas, including dedicated railway rake operations, integrated coal transportation solutions, multimodal logistics, first-mile and last-mile connectivity, and the deployment of digital systems for logistics monitoring and operational efficiency. Under the agreed framework, both organizations will explore provisioning and operation of GPWIS and equivalent racks, integrated rail logistics services, and long-term transportation solutions aimed at improving dispatch efficiency and reducing logistical obstacles. The MoU was signed in the presence of Harish Duhan, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of SECL, and Santosh Sinha, Managing Director of CWC. Functional Directors and senior officials from SECL, as well as representatives from CWC, attended the signing ceremony. SECL plays a vital role in meeting the country's growing coal demand. In the current financial year 2026-27, Coal India Limited has already surpassed the 100 million tonne production mark, with SECL contributing more than 26.8 million tonnes. Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC), a Navaratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Government of India, is a leader in integrated logistics and warehousing services. It has extensive experience in rail-linked cargo movement and multimodal transportation solutions. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
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India’s two largest container gateways, Mundra and Nhava Sheva, are facing mounting congestion as rising cargo volumes, truck driver shortages and rerouted shipments from the Middle East strain operations across the country’s logistics network. Shipping lines and logistics operators are reporting worsening turnaround times at both ports, with vessel delays averaging nearly two and a half days and some unscheduled ships waiting up to five days for berthing. The disruptions are slowing cargo movement, tightening yard space and forcing carriers to make last-minute operational changes. According to industry reports, a shortage of truck drivers has become a major bottleneck for container transfers between terminals and inland transport hubs. The issue has reduced the pace of cargo evacuation from ports, adding pressure on already crowded container yards. Terminal operators have intermittently restricted gate access to control container inflow, while export gate schedules continue to shift frequently. These changes are complicating truck planning and increasing uncertainty for exporters and freight forwarders. The congestion is being intensified by cargo diversions linked to disruptions in the Middle East, particularly around Gulf trade routes. Shipping lines have increasingly redirected transshipment cargo to Indian ports as alternatives to facilities in the Persian Gulf, sharply increasing container volumes in recent weeks. The pressure has begun affecting carrier schedules. Some shipping companies are rerouting vessels between terminals at short notice to avoid yard congestion. Danish shipping giant Maersk recently shifted several sailings from its regular terminal at Nhava Sheva to PSA Mumbai after facing space constraints and a growing container backlog. Industry stakeholders say these sudden terminal changes are creating operational and financial challenges for shippers, including higher handling costs and difficulties coordinating customs clearance and inland transportation. The latest disruption comes at a time when India has been positioning itself as a major global manufacturing and logistics hub. Over the past decade, the country has expanded port capacity, improved freight corridors and modernised customs processes to strengthen supply chain efficiency. However, the current congestion highlights the vulnerability of port infrastructure during periods of sudden trade realignment and geopolitical disruption. Logistics experts warn that prolonged delays could increase freight costs, extend delivery timelines and place additional pressure on exporters already dealing with volatile global shipping conditions. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
The diversification process by Apple continues to progress as India becomes one of the centers for manufacturing operations. Based on an analysis by Smart Analytics Global (SAG), the percentage share of Indian manufacturing of iPhones has increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025 and further to 28% by 2026, whereas China’s share has decreased from 83% to 74% within the same timeframe. As Apple continues to lower its reliance on China, India is all set to emerge as the major assembly hub for 28 percent of all iPhones exported around the world by 2026, compared to just 23 percent in the prior year. This change is due to the company's overall strategy of spreading its manufacturing operations in order to mitigate potential tariff risks and geopolitical risks, in addition to creating a more flexible manufacturing network beyond China. Based on the estimates of Smart Analytics Global (SAG), China's share in global iPhone production dropped from 83% in 2024 to 74% in 2025, while India's share increased from 14% in 2024 to 23% in 2025. Estimates provided by another market research firm, Counterpoint Research, indicate that India's share in global iPhone manufacturing could increase to approximately 26% in 2026 from 23% in 2025. As per SAG, “India will account for the manufacture of 28 percent of iPhones shipped globally in 2026, rising from 23 percent in 2025. This growth will be fueled by the ongoing diversification of Apple outside China and capacity build-up at existing manufacturers in India like Tata Electronics,” said Abhilash Kumar, an analyst at Smart Analytics Global. According to Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research, “Apple's manufacturing partners have substantially increased their manufacturing capacities and assembly lines in India. They have also diversified their product portfolio made in India.” He further stated that the increase in manufacturing capacity of Tata Electronics is another factor aiding the growth. Apple has managed to localize production substantially in India through manufacturers like Foxconn and Tata Electronics. The recent takeover of Wistron and Pegatron in India by the Tata Group represents a huge step forward in Apple’s localization efforts in India. At present, India is assembling a larger number of iPhones, even the latest versions, and has become an important source of exports, targeting countries like the US and European nations. Over the past five years, Apple has manufactured iPhones worth almost $70 billion in India using its PLI scheme, where around $51 billion, or almost 73% of all iPhones manufactured, were exported from India. Moreover, iPhones have become the most exported goods from India during the previous financial year. India has become the biggest beneficiary of Apple’s changing supply chain. From initially assembling iPhones on a smaller scale, it has grown to become a manufacturing cluster for iPhones through government incentives, increased manufacturing capabilities, and the growing presence of suppliers. Several of the most important suppliers and manufacturers for Apple are still highly entrenched within China, allowing the country to enjoy an unrivaled capacity and adaptability when it comes to managing mass-scale productions and product shifts. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
Shadowfax is significantly expanding its quick commerce infrastructure, announcing plans to scale its dark store network from 15 facilities to 100 by FY27. The move underscores the company’s growing focus on hyperlocal deliveries, same-day fulfilment, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) logistics as competition intensifies in India’s fast-evolving quick commerce ecosystem. The Bengaluru-based company plans to add 85 new dark stores over the next fiscal year, targeting metro cities with delivery radiuses of approximately seven kilometres and fulfilment timelines of around 30 minutes. The expansion is expected to support rising demand from vertical quick commerce platforms and D2C brands that increasingly rely on third-party logistics (3PL) partners for rapid deliveries. According to company executives, vertical marketplaces are emerging as a profitable segment because of their dependence on outsourced logistics infrastructure rather than captive fulfilment networks. Shadowfax believes this trend creates a strong opportunity for scalable 3PL-led quick commerce models. The dark store expansion will account for nearly 10% of Shadowfax’s planned capital expenditure of ₹180–190 crore in FY27. The company is simultaneously strengthening its automation and artificial intelligence capabilities to improve operational efficiency. AI-led demand forecasting, automated slotting, and smarter sorting centre operations are expected to reduce overhead costs while accelerating breakeven timelines for new facilities. Shadowfax’s aggressive expansion comes on the back of strong financial performance. The company reported a consolidated net profit of ₹55.8 crore in Q4 FY26, compared to a net loss of ₹9.9 crore during the same period last year. Revenue from operations surged 73.6% year-on-year to ₹1,237 crore, reflecting growing order volumes and increased adoption of quick commerce delivery services. Founded in 2015, Shadowfax has evolved into one of India’s largest logistics and last-mile delivery networks, serving over 2,500 cities and more than 15,000 pincodes. The company currently handles millions of shipments daily through a technology-driven delivery ecosystem that supports e-commerce, grocery, hyperlocal, and D2C brands. Industry analysts believe the dark store expansion reflects a broader shift within India’s logistics sector, where speed, proximity-based fulfilment, and automated operations are becoming central to supply chain competitiveness. As quick commerce adoption accelerates beyond groceries into categories such as fashion, electronics, and personal care, logistics providers like Shadowfax are positioning themselves as critical enablers of ultra-fast retail fulfilment. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
India’s Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) are rapidly reshaping the country’s logistics landscape, with the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) between Dadri and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) emerging as a game-changing infrastructure project for supply chains and multimodal freight movement. Designed exclusively for cargo operations, the corridor is significantly reducing transit times, improving reliability, and easing congestion on conventional rail routes. Stretching nearly 1,500 km from Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to JNPA near Mumbai, the corridor forms the backbone of India’s western logistics artery, connecting manufacturing centres, inland container depots, industrial clusters, and ports. With dedicated tracks for freight trains, the network allows uninterrupted cargo movement at higher average speeds, eliminating delays caused by mixed passenger and freight operations. One of the biggest outcomes has been a sharp reduction in transit time. Freight movement between Dadri and JNPA that traditionally took close to 72 hours on congested rail routes is now being completed in nearly half the time, improving turnaround efficiency for exporters, importers, and logistics operators. Industry stakeholders believe the reduction in transit duration will strengthen India’s competitiveness in global trade and support the government’s target of lowering logistics costs as a percentage of GDP. The DFC network has also enabled the operation of longer and heavier freight trains, including double-stack container services on electrified routes. This has increased carrying capacity while lowering per-unit transportation costs. According to sector estimates, rail freight on dedicated corridors is considerably more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable than road transport, aligning with India’s broader decarbonisation goals. Beyond operational efficiency, the corridors are catalysing the growth of integrated logistics ecosystems. Regions such as Dadri, Greater Noida, and Jewar are witnessing accelerated development of multimodal logistics parks, warehousing zones, and industrial hubs due to their strategic connectivity with both the Eastern and Western DFCs. The emerging “rail-road-air” logistics triangle around the National Capital Region is expected to attract substantial investments in manufacturing and distribution infrastructure. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has reported rising freight train volumes on the operational stretches, indicating growing industry adoption. The completion of key links on the western corridor is expected to further enhance throughput and reduce dependency on road transport for long-haul cargo. Analysts say the dedicated rail network could become central to India’s ambition of creating faster, greener, and more resilient supply chains. As India continues investing in additional freight corridors across the country, the success of the Dadri-JNPA route demonstrates how infrastructure modernisation can directly influence trade efficiency, logistics performance, and industrial growth. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬
In a strategic warehousing move, the South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), the second largest coal-producing subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) for collaboration in coal logistics, railway rake provisioning under GPWIS and similar schemes, and integrated transportation services. Guided by the Union Ministry of Coal, SECL is rapidly working to improve India’s energy security and coal logistics infrastructure. The company is taking steps to boost coal evacuation efficiency and ensure a steady fuel supply to essential sectors. This partnership with CWC is a significant move in that direction. The goal of the partnership with CWC is to strengthen SECL’s coal evacuation capabilities by providing reliable and efficient rail logistics solutions to meet the rising demand from the power, steel, cement, and other sectors. The MoU outlines collaboration in various areas, including dedicated railway rake operations, integrated coal transportation solutions, multimodal logistics, first-mile and last-mile connectivity, and the deployment of digital systems for logistics monitoring and operational efficiency. Under the agreed framework, both organizations will explore provisioning and operation of GPWIS and equivalent racks, integrated rail logistics services, and long-term transportation solutions aimed at improving dispatch efficiency and reducing logistical obstacles. The MoU was signed in the presence of Harish Duhan, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of SECL, and Santosh Sinha, Managing Director of CWC. Functional Directors and senior officials from SECL, as well as representatives from CWC, attended the signing ceremony. SECL plays a vital role in meeting the country's growing coal demand. In the current financial year 2026-27, Coal India Limited has already surpassed the 100 million tonne production mark, with SECL contributing more than 26.8 million tonnes. Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC), a Navaratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Government of India, is a leader in integrated logistics and warehousing services. It has extensive experience in rail-linked cargo movement and multimodal transportation solutions. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.
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Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
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