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Safexpress has strengthened its logistics footprint in North India with the inauguration of a new integrated logistics park in Rajpura, Punjab. Strategically located on NH-44 at Gandian, Madanpur, the facility is designed to enhance supply chain efficiency while supporting the growing warehousing and distribution requirements of businesses across Punjab and neighbouring markets. Spread across 2.4 lakh square feet, the logistics park combines advanced transshipment capabilities with third-party logistics (3PL) services, enabling faster movement of goods and improved inventory management. The facility is expected to cater to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers operating across multiple industry sectors, reinforcing Rajpura's position as an emerging logistics destination. The newly commissioned logistics park features a modern cross-dock design that allows simultaneous loading and unloading of more than 41 vehicles, improving operational turnaround times. A column-free span exceeding 105 feet provides unobstructed movement of cargo and material handling equipment, while 16-foot-wide cantilever sheds facilitate uninterrupted loading and unloading operations regardless of weather conditions. Rajpura has witnessed rapid industrial growth in recent years due to its strategic location between Delhi and Chandigarh. The region is home to a diverse manufacturing base comprising agro and food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering, automotive components, packaging, plastics, chemicals and construction materials. Strong road and rail connectivity, coupled with established industrial estates, has made the city an attractive logistics and distribution hub for businesses serving North India. The company expects the new logistics park to address the increasing demand for modern logistics infrastructure while improving supply chain reliability for industries operating in the region. Faster cargo movement and enhanced warehousing capabilities are likely to help businesses optimise distribution networks, reduce transit times and improve service levels across domestic markets. The Rajpura facility also incorporates several sustainability and safety initiatives. It is equipped with modern firefighting systems and trained emergency response personnel to ensure operational safety. Environmental features include an integrated rainwater harvesting system, dedicated green areas and extensive use of natural daylight, helping reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable operations. The inauguration marks another step in Safexpress' ongoing investment in expanding its pan-India logistics network. By strengthening infrastructure in a key industrial corridor, the company aims to improve nationwide connectivity while supporting regional economic development and enabling businesses to access faster, more efficient and dependable supply chain solutions across India. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Air India Cargo has successfully completed the first international export shipment from Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), marking a significant milestone in India's evolving air cargo landscape. The inaugural shipment, comprising premium Ratnagiri Alphonso mangoes sourced from Maharashtra's Konkan region, was transported to Abu Dhabi aboard an Air India Express flight, highlighting the airport's growing role as a strategic cargo gateway for western India. The milestone comes shortly after Navi Mumbai International Airport commenced international passenger and cargo operations, reinforcing its position as a critical logistics hub designed to complement and decongest Mumbai's existing aviation infrastructure. Industry observers believe the development will significantly enhance export connectivity for perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, engineering products and other high-value cargo originating from Maharashtra and neighbouring states. The first export consignment reflects Air India Cargo's focus on strengthening India's agricultural exports by providing faster and more reliable access to international markets. Fresh Alphonso mangoes, renowned globally for their superior quality and flavour, require temperature-controlled handling and rapid transit to preserve freshness. The direct air cargo link to Abu Dhabi is expected to reduce transit time while improving product quality upon arrival. According to Air India, the shipment underscores the airline's commitment to supporting Indian exporters by leveraging its expanding cargo network and the operational capabilities of Air India Express. The initiative also aligns with the government's broader objective of improving multimodal logistics infrastructure and boosting agricultural exports through enhanced air freight connectivity. The commencement of international cargo operations at NMIA is expected to create new opportunities for exporters across sectors. Besides perishables, the airport is well-positioned to handle pharmaceuticals, electronics, textiles, automotive components and express cargo, benefiting from its proximity to industrial clusters and major manufacturing centres in western India. Logistics experts believe Navi Mumbai's modern cargo infrastructure, combined with dedicated handling facilities and improved road connectivity, will ease congestion at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport while offering exporters additional capacity and operational flexibility. The airport is also expected to play an increasingly important role as freighter operations gradually shift to Navi Mumbai in the coming months. As India's air cargo market continues to expand, the successful launch of international export operations from Navi Mumbai represents more than just an inaugural shipment. It signals the emergence of a new logistics gateway capable of supporting India's export ambitions, strengthening supply chains and improving global market access for Indian businesses. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Bhogapuram International Airport on August 1, describing the project as a transformative milestone for the economic development of North Andhra. According to the Chief Minister, the airport is expected to unlock new opportunities for the region by enhancing connectivity, attracting investments, and improving socio-economic conditions. He said the project would stimulate tourism, industrial growth, and commercial activity, positioning North Andhra as a key economic hub. Naidu noted that the airport project was originally initiated during the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government in 2014 and was subsequently fast-tracked under the current NDA coalition government, leading to its completion within two years. The state government plans to hold the inauguration on a grand scale to mark the significance of the project. Ahead of the event, the Chief Minister chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparations for the inauguration and ensure smooth execution of the programme. Highlighting the airport's long-term significance, Naidu said Bhogapuram International Airport would serve as a catalyst for the development of the Visakhapatnam Economic Region, driving investments and generating employment. Drawing a comparison with Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at Shamshabad, he said the new airport is expected to bring similar transformational growth to North Andhra by strengthening regional connectivity and accelerating economic development. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such news
Maersk has announced an increase in its Emergency Contingency Surcharge (ECS) for cargo moving from the Indian subcontinent to North Europe and the Mediterranean, with the revised charges coming into effect from August 1, 2026. The move is expected to raise ocean freight costs for exporters across India and neighbouring South Asian markets, adding further pressure on supply chains already navigating volatile global shipping ecosystem. The revised ECS applies to cargo transported on Maersk's E3W (North Europe) and E4W (Mediterranean) services originating from North West India, South and East India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. According to the carrier, the surcharge revision follows a review of prevailing market conditions aimed at maintaining the stability and reliability of its ocean freight. Under the new tariff structure, the ECS for shipments from North West India and Pakistan to North Europe will increase to US$3,500 per container across dry and reefer equipment, up from US$2,500. Similarly, shipments from South and East India and Nepal to North Europe will attract an ECS of US$3,800 for 20-foot containers and US$4,400 for 40-foot containers and reefers. Bangladesh-bound exports to North Europe will see the surcharge rise to US$4,000 for 20-foot containers and US$4,800 for 40-foot dry containers. Comparable increases have also been announced for shipments destined for the Mediterranean. The surcharge increase effectively adds US$1,000 per container across most trade lanes, making exports to Europe more expensive for manufacturers and shippers. Industry observers believe sectors such as textiles, engineering goods, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and automotive components, which rely heavily on Europe-bound container traffic, are likely to witness higher logistics costs in the coming months. The announcement comes amid continued uncertainty in global shipping markets, where carriers are adjusting freight rates and surcharges to offset elevated operating costs, capacity constraints and network disruptions. Shipping lines have increasingly relied on emergency and contingency surcharges to recover additional expenses arising from changing trade dynamics and operational challenges. In a separate advisory issued on July 17, Maersk also introduced a Heavy Load Surcharge (HWS) for cargo moving from North West India to North Europe and Israel-bound Mediterranean destinations, indicating a broader review of pricing across its regional services. For Indian exporters, the revised ECS is expected to translate into higher freight bills from August, prompting many to reassess logistics budgets, negotiate shipping contracts and explore cost optimisation strategies as Europe remains one of India's largest export markets. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Safexpress has strengthened its logistics footprint in North India with the inauguration of a new integrated logistics park in Rajpura, Punjab. Strategically located on NH-44 at Gandian, Madanpur, the facility is designed to enhance supply chain efficiency while supporting the growing warehousing and distribution requirements of businesses across Punjab and neighbouring markets. Spread across 2.4 lakh square feet, the logistics park combines advanced transshipment capabilities with third-party logistics (3PL) services, enabling faster movement of goods and improved inventory management. The facility is expected to cater to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers operating across multiple industry sectors, reinforcing Rajpura's position as an emerging logistics destination. The newly commissioned logistics park features a modern cross-dock design that allows simultaneous loading and unloading of more than 41 vehicles, improving operational turnaround times. A column-free span exceeding 105 feet provides unobstructed movement of cargo and material handling equipment, while 16-foot-wide cantilever sheds facilitate uninterrupted loading and unloading operations regardless of weather conditions. Rajpura has witnessed rapid industrial growth in recent years due to its strategic location between Delhi and Chandigarh. The region is home to a diverse manufacturing base comprising agro and food processing, pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering, automotive components, packaging, plastics, chemicals and construction materials. Strong road and rail connectivity, coupled with established industrial estates, has made the city an attractive logistics and distribution hub for businesses serving North India. The company expects the new logistics park to address the increasing demand for modern logistics infrastructure while improving supply chain reliability for industries operating in the region. Faster cargo movement and enhanced warehousing capabilities are likely to help businesses optimise distribution networks, reduce transit times and improve service levels across domestic markets. The Rajpura facility also incorporates several sustainability and safety initiatives. It is equipped with modern firefighting systems and trained emergency response personnel to ensure operational safety. Environmental features include an integrated rainwater harvesting system, dedicated green areas and extensive use of natural daylight, helping reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable operations. The inauguration marks another step in Safexpress' ongoing investment in expanding its pan-India logistics network. By strengthening infrastructure in a key industrial corridor, the company aims to improve nationwide connectivity while supporting regional economic development and enabling businesses to access faster, more efficient and dependable supply chain solutions across India. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
The Government of India has approved a two-year extension in the tenure of Shyam Jagannathan as the Director General of Shipping (DG Shipping), reinforcing continuity in the country's maritime governance at a time when the sector is undergoing significant digital and regulatory transformation. The extension, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), will allow Jagannathan to continue serving in the Additional Secretary-level position under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. A 1997-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, Jagannathan assumed charge as Director General of Shipping on July 3, 2023. Since taking office, he has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at modernising India's maritime administration through technology-driven governance, process automation and enhanced regulatory compliance. The Directorate General of Shipping serves as India's apex maritime regulatory authority and is responsible for implementing the Merchant Shipping Act, enforcing international maritime conventions, promoting safety standards, regulating seafarer certification, and overseeing shipping operations in the country. Under Jagannathan's leadership, the organisation has accelerated efforts to digitise end-to-end workflows, simplify stakeholder interactions and strengthen examination reforms aligned with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). Prior to his current assignment, Jagannathan held several key administrative positions across both the Central and State governments. He served as Zonal Development Commissioner of the Santacruz Electronic Export Processing Zone (SEEPZ) Special Economic Zone under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. His experience also includes leadership roles as Commissioner and Secretary in Assam's Finance Department, Commissioner of North Assam Division, Commissioner of Commercial Taxes in Kerala, Chairman of the Civil Supplies Corporation, and District Magistrate of West Garo Hills in Meghalaya. This diverse administrative background has equipped him with extensive expertise in governance, public policy and institutional reforms. Industry stakeholders view the extension as a positive development for India's maritime ecosystem, as it ensures policy continuity amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the country's shipping competitiveness, improve ease of doing business, enhance seafarer welfare and advance the objectives of Maritime India Vision 2030. With global shipping navigating evolving regulatory requirements and increasing digitalisation, stable leadership at the Directorate General of Shipping is expected to support India's ambitions of becoming a leading maritime nation and logistics hub. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Blue Dart has completed 30 years of aviation operations, marking a significant milestone for the express logistics company as it continues to expand its air cargo network across India. Since 1996, the company has operated more than 2.15 lakh flights and transported over 20.5 lakh tonnes of air cargo, underscoring the scale of its dedicated air express network. The aviation division forms a key part of Blue Dart’s integrated logistics infrastructure, supporting time-definite deliveries and enabling nationwide connectivity for businesses and consumers. Over the past three decades, Blue Dart’s air network has played an important role in serving a broad range of industries, including life sciences, banking and financial services, manufacturing, automotive, e-commerce and small and medium-sized enterprises. The company said its aviation capabilities have contributed to improved supply chain efficiency and strengthened logistics connectivity across the country. The network also supported the movement of critical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccines, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essential goods, helping maintain the flow of healthcare and emergency shipments during a period of severe disruption. Commenting on the milestone, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director of Blue Dart Express Limited, said the company’s aviation infrastructure has been instrumental in supporting next-day and under-24-hour delivery services across India. “Blue Dart’s aviation capability has strengthened the speed, reliability and certainty that customers associate with the brand, while connecting businesses, markets and communities,” Manuel said. Today, Blue Dart operates a dedicated fleet of eight Boeing 737 and 757 freighter aircraft. The fleet serves as a critical component of the company’s logistics network, facilitating the movement of shipments between major metropolitan centres and emerging economic hubs. Capt. Nikhil B. Ved, Managing Director of Blue Dart Aviation Limited, said the milestone reflects the company’s long-standing role in supporting India’s air express logistics network. “The journey has been defined by operational excellence, safety and a relentless focus on customer needs. As we enter the next decade, our focus remains on strengthening capabilities and building a future-ready aviation network,” Ved said. Looking ahead, the company said it will focus on strengthening network resilience, improving operational efficiency and expanding the use of technology and automation across its aviation operations. These efforts are expected to support growing cargo demand and the evolving requirements of India’s logistics sector as the country continues to expand its economic footprint. As Blue Dart enters the fourth decade of its aviation business, the company remains focused on enhancing air cargo capabilities and supporting faster, more reliable movement of goods across domestic markets. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is set to significantly strengthen its air cargo capabilities through a major infrastructure expansion project that will feature advanced automation technology from Lödige Industries. The airport is investing more than $300 million in a new cargo terminal designed to enhance handling capacity, improve operational efficiency, and support future growth in air freight volumes. The new facility forms part of SFO’s long-term strategy to modernize its cargo infrastructure and reinforce its position as one of the leading air cargo gateways on the U.S. West Coast. With global air freight demand expected to continue growing, the airport is focusing on automation-driven solutions that can streamline cargo flows while maximizing available space and resources. Under the project, Lödige Industries has been selected to provide customized automated cargo handling systems for the terminal. The company will deploy technologies that enable automated storage and retrieval, high-throughput cargo processing, and optimized cargo movement across the facility. The systems are expected to reduce manual handling requirements, improve turnaround times, and increase overall terminal productivity. According to industry reports, the terminal has been designed to accommodate rising cargo volumes while supporting the operational needs of airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics service providers operating through SFO. The integration of advanced automation is also expected to improve cargo visibility and handling accuracy, helping stakeholders manage increasingly complex supply chains more efficiently. The investment reflects a broader trend across global airports, where digitalization and automation are becoming critical to addressing capacity constraints, labor challenges, and growing e-commerce demand. By incorporating automated technologies into its cargo operations, SFO aims to create a future-ready facility capable of supporting both current and emerging logistics requirements. Construction and implementation activities are expected to progress over the coming years, with the expanded cargo terminal anticipated to be operational by 2028. Once completed, the project is expected to deliver a substantial increase in cargo handling capacity while enhancing service reliability and operational resilience. For Lödige Industries, the contract further strengthens its footprint in the global air cargo sector, where automated storage, transport, and terminal management solutions are increasingly being adopted by airports seeking greater efficiency and scalability. The SFO project represents another milestone in the industry’s transition toward smart, technology-enabled cargo operations. As international trade and e-commerce continue to drive air freight demand, investments such as SFO’s automated cargo terminal are likely to play a crucial role in ensuring airports can meet future logistics and supply chain requirements efficiently and sustainably. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Chapman Freeborn has successfully completed a time-sensitive cargo charter operation transporting oversized oilfield equipment from China to Saudi Arabia, supporting urgent replenishment requirements for a client in the oil and gas sector amid ongoing global shipping disruptions and airfreight congestion. The operation involved the movement of nearly 90 tonnes of cargo, including industrial pumps, precision spare parts and oversized equipment measuring up to eight metres in length. The shipment was transported aboard a Boeing 747 Freighter, selected for its main-deck capacity and ability to handle heavy and outsized freight. The project required complex logistical coordination after fuelling constraints at the original departure airport necessitated the cargo’s relocation inland to an alternative airport. Chapman Freeborn’s China team arranged overnight trucking and managed the freight forwarding process to maintain delivery timelines. The charter operation was further challenged by limited aircraft availability, routing restrictions and slot coordination requirements at destination. Despite the operational complexities, the cargo arrived on schedule, enabling uninterrupted onward movement and preventing disruptions to the client’s ongoing field operations. The project highlights the growing role of specialised air charter solutions in supporting critical industrial supply chains where speed, flexibility and operational coordination remain essential.
India is preparing to operationalise its trade agreement with Oman from June 1, as New Delhi accelerates efforts to secure alternative trade corridors and strengthen supply chain resilience amid continuing geopolitical and energy market uncertainty. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said discussions with Omani officials have progressed positively, with both sides moving toward implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The agreement, signed in December 2025, is expected to provide duty-free access for a large share of Indian exports to Oman, including engineering goods, textiles, food products and chemicals. In return, India will lower tariffs on several Omani exports, including petrochemical products and minerals. Trade and logistics stakeholders view the pact as strategically important for India’s westbound cargo movement and regional connectivity ambitions. Oman’s geographic position along major maritime routes in the Arabian Sea and Gulf region gives Indian exporters an additional gateway into West Asia and parts of Africa. The agreement is also expected to support warehousing, port-led trade and multimodal logistics integration between the two countries. Government officials indicated that the CEPA would cover more than 98% of Indian export tariff lines entering Oman, while India would gradually liberalise access across a significant portion of imports from Oman. Certain sectors, particularly petrochemicals, may see phased tariff reductions rather than immediate elimination. The push to activate the Oman pact comes as India expands its broader trade strategy through multiple bilateral agreements aimed at reducing dependence on concentrated supply chains and improving market access for domestic manufacturers. Recent discussions involving trade arrangements with the UK, EU and other partners have reinforced New Delhi’s emphasis on export diversification and trade-led industrial growth. Industry analysts expect the Oman agreement to particularly benefit Indian sectors linked to containerised exports, chemicals, automotive components, processed foods and MSME manufacturing clusters. Shipping and logistics companies are also likely to see increased cargo flows through western Indian ports as bilateral trade volumes rise under preferential tariff treatment. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
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.
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.
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
India is preparing to take a significant step towards building a stronger and more self-reliant electric vehicle (EV) supply chain with a proposed incentive scheme worth nearly ₹12,000 crore for the domestic manufacturing of battery components and materials. The initiative is expected to complement the existing ₹18,100 crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) battery manufacturing and help address a critical gap in India's EV ecosystem. Over the past few years, India has made considerable progress in attracting investments for battery cell production. However, industry stakeholders have consistently pointed out that a large portion of the battery value chain continues to rely on imported materials. While cell manufacturing capacity is being created domestically, many of the essential inputs required for battery production are still sourced from overseas markets, limiting overall localisation. The proposed scheme aims to change this dynamic by encouraging local production of critical battery materials and components. Reports indicate that the incentive framework may cover Cathode Active Materials (CAM), Anode Active Materials (AAM), electrolytes, copper foil, battery separators and other advanced battery materials that form the backbone of modern EV batteries. For India's rapidly expanding EV sector, these components are far more than just manufacturing inputs. They represent a strategic part of the supply chain, influencing production costs, availability, quality and long-term competitiveness. Industry estimates suggest that battery materials account for a substantial share of overall battery costs, making localisation an important lever for improving economics across the EV value chain. The initiative comes at a crucial time as automakers continue to accelerate their electrification plans. Demand for batteries is expected to rise sharply, driven by passenger electric vehicles, electric two-wheelers, commercial EV fleets, energy storage systems and renewable energy integration projects. To support this growth, India will require a robust and dependable supply network capable of serving domestic manufacturers at scale. According to industry projections, India could require more than 400,000 tonnes of Cathode Active Material and over 200,000 tonnes of Anode Active Material by 2030 to support the battery manufacturing capacities that have already been announced. Such figures highlight the enormous opportunity for companies willing to invest in upstream battery manufacturing and supply chain infrastructure. A key objective of the proposed scheme is to reduce India's dependence on global battery supply chains, many of which remain heavily concentrated in China. At present, China dominates several critical segments of the battery ecosystem, including cathode processing, anode materials, battery chemicals and copper foil production. This concentration exposes manufacturers worldwide to supply disruptions, geopolitical uncertainties and price volatility. By supporting local manufacturing, India hopes to create a more resilient and diversified supply chain while attracting global battery material producers to establish operations within the country. Such investments could strengthen domestic capabilities, improve supply security and increase value addition within India. The proposed incentive programme is also expected to complement the ACC PLI scheme, which was launched to establish large-scale battery cell manufacturing capacity. While the PLI scheme has succeeded in attracting investments from major players, the development of upstream battery materials has progressed at a slower pace. Industry experts believe the new initiative could bridge this gap and help create a more integrated battery ecosystem. Nevertheless, several challenges remain. Building a globally competitive battery supply chain will require access to critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite, along with significant capital investments, advanced manufacturing technologies and a skilled workforce. Industry observers have repeatedly emphasised that long-term success will depend on developing capabilities across mining, refining, recycling, component manufacturing and battery production. For automotive manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Motor India, stronger domestic sourcing could eventually translate into lower battery costs, improved supply reliability and enhanced competitiveness. Since batteries account for nearly 35-45 per cent of an EV's total cost, supply chain localisation could play a pivotal role in making electric vehicles more affordable and accelerating their adoption across the country. As India pursues its ambitious EV targets, building battery cell factories alone may not be enough. Creating a comprehensive supply chain for battery materials and components will be equally important. If implemented effectively, the proposed ₹12,000 crore scheme could become a key milestone in India's journey towards establishing a globally competitive EV supply chain and emerging as a major hub for advanced battery manufacturing.
In a major step toward improving India’s medical device supply chain, Celcius Logistics has partnered with Ottobock India to launch a dedicated prosthetics and assistive-device warehouse facility in Thane, Maharashtra. The newly launched facility, located at Wagle Estate, spans approximately 3,000 sq ft and has been developed to support the storage and nationwide distribution of advanced prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices and other specialized healthcare products. The warehouse features 110 slotted racks, more than 700 bin locations, and a temperature- controlled section for storing sensitive medical materials. Under a five- year agreement, Celcius Logistics, an Indian healthcare and cold-chain logistics company will manage the end-to-end warehouse operations and transportation for Ottobock India, the Indian arm of Germany-based prosthetics manufacturer Ottobock. Both firms have already indicated plans to expand the facility’s operational capacity by nearly 25 percent within the next year as demand increases. Commenting on the partnership, Swarup Bose, Founder and CEO, Celcius Logistics, said, “This partnership reflects how healthcare supply chains in India are evolving towards greater precision, reliability, and accountability. At Celcius, we are focused on building infrastructure that can consistently support the movement of high-value, sensitive medical products at scale. By combining our technology-led logistics capabilities with Ottobock’s global expertise, we are enabling a more robust and responsive distribution ecosystem.” The launch of the Thane facility is therefore being seen by industry experts not only as a warehousing expansion, but also as a broader move toward building a specialized healthcare logistics in India. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
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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.
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.
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
India is preparing to take a significant step towards building a stronger and more self-reliant electric vehicle (EV) supply chain with a proposed incentive scheme worth nearly ₹12,000 crore for the domestic manufacturing of battery components and materials. The initiative is expected to complement the existing ₹18,100 crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) battery manufacturing and help address a critical gap in India's EV ecosystem. Over the past few years, India has made considerable progress in attracting investments for battery cell production. However, industry stakeholders have consistently pointed out that a large portion of the battery value chain continues to rely on imported materials. While cell manufacturing capacity is being created domestically, many of the essential inputs required for battery production are still sourced from overseas markets, limiting overall localisation. The proposed scheme aims to change this dynamic by encouraging local production of critical battery materials and components. Reports indicate that the incentive framework may cover Cathode Active Materials (CAM), Anode Active Materials (AAM), electrolytes, copper foil, battery separators and other advanced battery materials that form the backbone of modern EV batteries. For India's rapidly expanding EV sector, these components are far more than just manufacturing inputs. They represent a strategic part of the supply chain, influencing production costs, availability, quality and long-term competitiveness. Industry estimates suggest that battery materials account for a substantial share of overall battery costs, making localisation an important lever for improving economics across the EV value chain. The initiative comes at a crucial time as automakers continue to accelerate their electrification plans. Demand for batteries is expected to rise sharply, driven by passenger electric vehicles, electric two-wheelers, commercial EV fleets, energy storage systems and renewable energy integration projects. To support this growth, India will require a robust and dependable supply network capable of serving domestic manufacturers at scale. According to industry projections, India could require more than 400,000 tonnes of Cathode Active Material and over 200,000 tonnes of Anode Active Material by 2030 to support the battery manufacturing capacities that have already been announced. Such figures highlight the enormous opportunity for companies willing to invest in upstream battery manufacturing and supply chain infrastructure. A key objective of the proposed scheme is to reduce India's dependence on global battery supply chains, many of which remain heavily concentrated in China. At present, China dominates several critical segments of the battery ecosystem, including cathode processing, anode materials, battery chemicals and copper foil production. This concentration exposes manufacturers worldwide to supply disruptions, geopolitical uncertainties and price volatility. By supporting local manufacturing, India hopes to create a more resilient and diversified supply chain while attracting global battery material producers to establish operations within the country. Such investments could strengthen domestic capabilities, improve supply security and increase value addition within India. The proposed incentive programme is also expected to complement the ACC PLI scheme, which was launched to establish large-scale battery cell manufacturing capacity. While the PLI scheme has succeeded in attracting investments from major players, the development of upstream battery materials has progressed at a slower pace. Industry experts believe the new initiative could bridge this gap and help create a more integrated battery ecosystem. Nevertheless, several challenges remain. Building a globally competitive battery supply chain will require access to critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite, along with significant capital investments, advanced manufacturing technologies and a skilled workforce. Industry observers have repeatedly emphasised that long-term success will depend on developing capabilities across mining, refining, recycling, component manufacturing and battery production. For automotive manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai Motor India, stronger domestic sourcing could eventually translate into lower battery costs, improved supply reliability and enhanced competitiveness. Since batteries account for nearly 35-45 per cent of an EV's total cost, supply chain localisation could play a pivotal role in making electric vehicles more affordable and accelerating their adoption across the country. As India pursues its ambitious EV targets, building battery cell factories alone may not be enough. Creating a comprehensive supply chain for battery materials and components will be equally important. If implemented effectively, the proposed ₹12,000 crore scheme could become a key milestone in India's journey towards establishing a globally competitive EV supply chain and emerging as a major hub for advanced battery manufacturing.
In a major step toward improving India’s medical device supply chain, Celcius Logistics has partnered with Ottobock India to launch a dedicated prosthetics and assistive-device warehouse facility in Thane, Maharashtra. The newly launched facility, located at Wagle Estate, spans approximately 3,000 sq ft and has been developed to support the storage and nationwide distribution of advanced prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices and other specialized healthcare products. The warehouse features 110 slotted racks, more than 700 bin locations, and a temperature- controlled section for storing sensitive medical materials. Under a five- year agreement, Celcius Logistics, an Indian healthcare and cold-chain logistics company will manage the end-to-end warehouse operations and transportation for Ottobock India, the Indian arm of Germany-based prosthetics manufacturer Ottobock. Both firms have already indicated plans to expand the facility’s operational capacity by nearly 25 percent within the next year as demand increases. Commenting on the partnership, Swarup Bose, Founder and CEO, Celcius Logistics, said, “This partnership reflects how healthcare supply chains in India are evolving towards greater precision, reliability, and accountability. At Celcius, we are focused on building infrastructure that can consistently support the movement of high-value, sensitive medical products at scale. By combining our technology-led logistics capabilities with Ottobock’s global expertise, we are enabling a more robust and responsive distribution ecosystem.” The launch of the Thane facility is therefore being seen by industry experts not only as a warehousing expansion, but also as a broader move toward building a specialized healthcare logistics in India. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.
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Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
Poonawalla Group invests in woman-led trackNOW to boost R&D, expand operations in Indian logistics market
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