NTT Ltd’s Global Data Centers division—a leader in the IDC MarketScape Worldwide Data Center Colocation and Interconnection Services 2021 Vendor Assesment1—that provides a full stack of ICT services has expanded its global data center footprint by 20%, in its aim to and continue to grow build a connected future that will benefit enterprise and hyperscale clients around the world.
NTT operates data centers across Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia, including a major presence in India. It delivers and operates global interconnected data centers with cross regional data center networks through key markets such as London, Singapore, Tokyo, and Virginia in North America. Its expansions in data center services provide increased data center capacity and network connectivity across all geographies, including:
Americas
In 2020/21, three new data center campuses were opened in Hillsboro, OR, Santa Clara, CA, and Chicago, IL, in addition to expansion in Ashburn, VA. NTT’s 47-acre (approx 190,000 sq mt) Hillsboro campus features five data centers with 126MW of planned IT load and Subsea Connect, a trans-pacific network connectivity service that provides connectivity between Hillsboro, Oregon and Tokyo, Japan using NTT’s Pacific Crossing (PC-1) subsea cable system. The Phoenix, AZ campus will open in early 2022 and be the seventh US data center campus. NTT Phoenix PH1 will add 36MW of IT load capacity and is the first of seven planned data centers on the 240MW campus.
EMEA
In the past year, NTT has opened new data center buildings in Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and Munich and Frankfurt in Germany, continuing its position as the number one data center provider in the German market. In the UK, the new flagship London 1 Data Center opened in December and, when fully operational, will increase NTT’s capacity by over 200% to support the digital backbone of the UK’s financial services, media, and gaming industries. NTT has also invested in duct and fiber to interconnect all its London data centers.
Over the next two years, NTT will increase its available IT load in EMEA by over 40% as it builds 13 new data center buildings across nine markets in six countries to deliver an added 115MW of IT load across 50,000 sq mt. NTT will launch its first data centers in Madrid and Johannesburg as well as adding buildings to Vienna, Zurich, London and across Germany, with expanded data center interconnections.
APAC
Jakarta 3 in Indonesia will launch 15MW at Bekasi, approximately 30km from Central Jakarta, by the end of this year. By taking advantage of NTT’s strengths as a network operator, clients will be able to easily connect with IXs and ISPs. Additionally, Cyberjaya 5 in Malaysia started to provide 6.8MW and plan to expand another 6.8MW to the Cyberjaya campus. In Japan, a new data center with 21MW of IT load capacity has been built in Tokyo. In response to strong demand from its clients, NTT is considering further expansion in Bangkok (Thailand), Osaka Metropolitan area (Japan), and Southern Vietnam.
India
With Mumbai 8 going live soon, the Chandivali campus, India’s first operational hyperscale data center park, will reach 85MW of IT load. Over the next 18 months, four new hyperscale data center parks will also become operational: two in Navi Mumbai and one each in Chennai and Delhi, adding approximately 133MW of IT load and 50,000 sq mt of floorspace. Interconnections for 10 data centers across India will also be rolled out in 2021 and submarine cable landing stations are planned in Mumbai and Chennai. This expansion will further consolidate NTT’s number one position in the Indian market.
In addition to the expansion of NTT’s global data center footprint, NTT is currently constructing a "MIST" large-capacity submarine cable connecting Singapore, Malaysia, and India (Mumbai and Chennai).
The MIST cable system will have a total length of 11,000km: a distance which is further than flying from New York, across the US and the Pacific Ocean to land in Tokyo. Construction will complete in mid-2023.
The infrastructure combination of such a significant increase in global data center capacity coupled with NTT’s status as a tier 1 global network service provider will provide businesses with a secure platform for increasing full-stack ICT service needs.
Global Data Center Interconnect (GDCI), an integrated global network fabric service that delivers a cross regional data center network and private secure connection to major cloud service providers with a single physical port supporting multiple virtual network services, increases this capability to provide a high speed interconnected digital backbone across its global markets. The increased submarine cable system will also help to provide cross-regional data center interconnections.
Masaaki Moribayashi, President and Board Director for NTT Ltd said, “The pandemic has dramatically changed our way of life. People’s quality of life now fundamentally depends on this infrastructure. In the next 18 months, NTT plans to increase data center operations by 20% to a total of over 600,000 sq mt (approx 6.5M sq ft) of floorspace in over 20 countries and regions. In addition, NTT will globally expand approximately 30 connection points of GDCI service in our data centers to optimise the enterprise hybrid cloud environment over NTT’s data centers and network services. NTT has already started construction to add 300MW of IT load to its portfolio. With the completion of new data centers, expanded campuses and high capacity networks such as the MIST submarine cable, we are building a connected future that will benefit NTT's clients around the world.”
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
ESR India, the largest APAC focused industrial and logistics real estate platform, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Tamil Nadu for a potential investment of INR 550 crores. The MOU is signed for the launch of two industrial parks in Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri districts of the state over the next five years. Once fully operational, the two projects have the potential to create over 4,400 jobs in the facility, that shall boost the overall socio-economic growth in the region. The MoU was signed at the Investment Conclave 2021 conference held today. It will facilitate ESR India’s proposed investment at Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri industrial parks by helping in streamlining land acquisition, approvals, clearances, and administrative processes as per existing policies, rules, and regulations of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The policy and regulatory reforms unveiled in recent times has accentuated the entry of international institutional players and has set new benchmarks for industrial developments in the country. Commenting on the development, Abhijit Malkani, CEO and Country Head, ESR India said, “We are delighted to announce our affiliation with the state government. The Government of Tamil Nadu has been very supportive in encouraging industrial developments in the state by creating a favourable business climate for industrial players. The MoU will see ESR invest INR 550 crores to develop industrial parks in Tamil Nadu, offering 1,800 direct and 2,600 indirect job opportunities in the facility.” “Our goals are aligned with the vision of the Tamil Nadu government, to create avenues to increase business and trade inclusion opportunities and employment towards garnering better economic growth in the region,” he further stated. ESR India is currently present across 9 cities and 15 locations with a total GFA of 18 mn sq ft. These state-of-the-art facilities will be developed upholding the best practices for ESG and sustainability.
Delmos Aviation has transported the second lot of 300 units of oxygen concentrators from Russia to New Delhi for the Rajasthan state government. The consignment was airborne on an Aeroflot A333 aircraft (SU 232) and reached at 10:10 AM in New Delhi. The shipments were shipped by road and sent back to Swasthya Bhawan, Jaipur, Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation (RMSCL). RMSCL obtained oxygen concentrators from Russian companies together with Delmos Aviation. Delmos Aviation is procuring, transporting and supplying COVID-relied materials to the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation with the mandate signed with the Rajasthan Government. There will shortly be two consignments with the remaining 800 oxygen concentrators. "We are ready to assist governments in the provision and delivery of any type of essential medical supplies, oxygen concentration and equipment as quickly as possible," said Dr Naveen Rao, Director, Delmos Aviation. "At this juncture, time-based deliveries are paramount. We can handle the airlift and deliver the shipment to the last point." In four lots, 100, 300, 450 and 400 units, a total of 1250 oxygen concentrations are ordered and continue to reach New Delhi in batches of shipments. On 14 and 16 May 2021, the remaining lots will arrive. Oxygen concentrators of Single flowmeter (0.5-10LPM Adjustable) and double flowmeter (0-5LPM Adjustable) are included in the delivery. The models are JAY-10A & LFY-I-5A. "The government of Rajasthan is working hard in this raging second wave of the pandemic to provide basic medical equipment to head Minister Ashok Gehlot and Minister of Health, Raghu Sharma. The government plans to import 1250 oxygen concentrators from Moscow, Russia, in partnership with Delmos Aviation, as part of its efforts to enhance medical oxygen in the state," said a spokesperson.
Singapore’s Changi Airport is sharpening its focus on pharmaceuticals and e-commerce shipments to navigate constrained cargo capacity until planned expansion in the 2030s. According to Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub and Cargo Development at Changi Airport Group, current facilities face mounting pressure due to growing regional demand, necessitating strategic tenant and cargo type management. E-commerce continues to be a key growth driver for air cargo globally, fueled by major players like Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop. At the same time, Singapore is solidifying its position as Southeast Asia’s preferred pharmaceutical hub, attracting investments from global biopharma giants such as Thermo Fisher, Sanofi, BioNTech, and MSD. Looking ahead, Changi Airport plans to launch a second logistics park by the 2030s, aiming to increase its annual cargo capacity from 3 million tons to 5.4 million tons. The new free trade zone will further expedite cargo handling and redistribution. In 2024, Changi Airport reported handling 1.99 million tons of airfreight, a 14.6% rise from 2023, driven by robust cross-border e-commerce demand, improved trade routes with China and the U.S., and recovering electronics exports. Top air cargo markets included China, Australia, the U.S., Hong Kong, and India.
The Indian government’s ambitious push to boost the domestic shipbuilding industry, announced in the Union Budget, is already drawing international interest, with South Korea stepping forward to collaborate on key initiatives. The Korea Marine Equipment Association (KOMEA), a Seoul-based non-profit under South Korea’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Energy, has offered its support to Indian shipyards for joint vessel design and construction, modernisation of shipyard production facilities, and technology transfer to enhance manufacturing processes, according to multiple sources. KOMEA, which represents major Korean shipbuilding and ship repair enterprises—including HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Hanwa Ocean (formerly Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering), and Samsung Heavy Industries—has formally pledged to provide highly qualified specialists for on-site education and training. The association also aims to develop joint educational programs, supply industrial equipment for modernising Indian shipyards, facilitate technology transfer, and support the localisation of marine equipment and spare parts. Founded in 1980, KOMEA has been instrumental in promoting South Korean marine equipment manufacturers globally and currently has a membership base of 304 entities involved in shipbuilding, design, and repair. The association operates in eight countries, including China, Japan, Singapore, the United States, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and Russia. With plans to expand its footprint in India, KOMEA sees the country as a strategic partner in advancing shipbuilding capabilities under a bilateral cooperation framework. “Building strong cooperative relationships between South Korean entities and Indian shipyards could significantly contribute to the growth of the shipbuilding industry in both nations,” a KOMEA official stated. “With over four decades of experience, KOMEA and its members can provide effective solutions to challenges in the shipbuilding sector within a short timeframe.” The Union Budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, earmarked ₹25,000 crore for the Maritime Development Fund (MDF) and introduced a revamped shipbuilding financial assistance policy to counter cost disadvantages. Additional measures include credit incentives for shipbreaking at Indian yards to promote a circular economy and granting infrastructure status to large ships above a specified size. The government also announced plans to develop shipbuilding clusters with enhanced infrastructure, skilling initiatives, and technological advancements to strengthen the industry’s ecosystem. A significant boost for shipbuilders came with the extension of the exemption from Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on raw materials, components, consumables, and parts used in ship manufacturing. This exemption, originally set to expire, will now be extended for another ten years from April 1, 2025. Ahead of the budget announcement, high-level delegations from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, along with representatives from the private shipbuilding sector, visited leading shipyards in South Korea and Japan. These visits were aimed at forging partnerships and leveraging global expertise to strengthen India’s shipbuilding industry. With South Korea now expressing formal interest in collaboration, the stage is set for India to accelerate its shipbuilding ambitions and emerge as a formidable player in the global maritime sector. Source: ET Infra
Arkas Line is expanding its international service network as part of its 2025 growth strategy. Building on its recent Red Sea expansion, the company is launching the "India Med Service (IMS)," its first direct route connecting India to the Mediterranean. From February 10, 2025, the IMS will send four vessels with a capacity of 2,500-2,800 TEU. By June 2025, the service will run weekly with five vessels. The route will cover major ports, such as Ambarli, Nhava Sheva, Mundra, and Alexandria. Customers will also benefit from rail connectivity at India's Mundra and Nhava Sheva ports to transport cargo to inland trade centers. Furthermore, Arkas Line is restructuring its Mediterranean operations by integrating its current GPS, EMS, and SEM routes into a streamlined "Blue Med Service (BMS)." This integrated service will improve efficiency in its Mediterranean network while increasing the company's coverage to 72 ports in 27 countries through 33 service routes. About its commitment to further global growth, Arkas Line CEO Can Atalay said, "With the launch of IMS and the strengthened BMS, we are firmly committed to offering efficient solutions that cater to evolving customer needs and consolidate our presence in key markets.
The Vizhinjam International Port was formally inaugurated after a successful five-month trial period with great fanfare and celebration last week for full-fledged commercial operation. This port's first phase has been completed due to effective team effort among Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd, Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Ltd, and agencies like IIT Madras. All agreed procedures have been finalised and the work may begin operations. "Wednesday, an independent engineer is going to issue a provisional completion certificate for the first phase of construction after examining it," said the Minister. The remaining minor work could be done in three months without hindering the continued operations. The formal commissioning was carried out as per the supplementary concession agreement signed recently between the state government and Adani Ports. In its trial run, the port performed remarkably well by successfully handling 70 cargo ships, including ultra-large mother ships, and handling a total of 147,000 containers. By averaging one vessel every alternate day, the port confirmed its readiness to emerge as a major player in the handling of export-import (exim) containers. Vasavan underscored that "the port's operations will transform Kerala's international trade and drive substantive economic growth for the state."
