Author: Cargo Insights

Chinese exports surged in March as companies accelerated shipments ahead of steep US tariff hikes. China recorded a 12.4% year-on-year export surge in March, according to official data released Monday, as exporters moved quickly to dispatch goods before a new round of US tariffs took effect. Imports, however, declined 4.3%, reflecting ongoing uncertainty in global trade conditions. In the first quarter of 2025, exports rose 5.8% while imports dropped 7%, highlighting an expanding trade surplus. March alone saw a $27.6 billion surplus with the US, driven by a 4.5% rise in shipments. The quarterly surplus with the US reached $76.6…

DP World opens Nhava Sheva Business Park and begins Bharat Mart build to boost India-UAE logistics ties. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated DP World’s Nhava Sheva Business Park (NSBP), a Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) near Mumbai. Spanning one million square feet, with another million in development, the facility features temperature-controlled and specialised storage to serve a variety of industries. The NSBP is part of DP World’s network of 12 global FTWZs and aims to enhance India-UAE trade by cutting costs, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening supply chains. During the visit, DP World also announced the…

Jewar’s MMCH to begin operations with airport launch, targeting 2.5 lakh tonnes of cargo in phase one. The Multi-Modal Cargo Hub (MMCH) at Jewar is set to become operational alongside the launch of international flights from Noida International Airport later this year. Spanning 87 acres, the hub is designed to handle 2.5 lakh tonnes of cargo annually in its first phase and will be India’s first to connect an international cargo terminal (ICT) directly with an integrated warehousing and logistics zone (IWLZ). Developed by Air India SATS (AISATS), a joint venture between Air India and Singapore Airport Terminal Services, the…

Dushyant Mulani, a pivotal figure, reshapes India’s logistics, spearheading digitalisation, skill enhancement, and global competitiveness, marking his legacy as a transformative leader. FFFAI, through his engagement, became a trusted advisor, influencing key policy decisions Dushyant Mulani’s professional journey is a narrative woven into the very fabric of India’s economic liberalisation. His career has been a front-row seat to the dramatic shift from a heavily regulated logistics landscape to one driven by facilitation and efficiency. This transformation, he often reflects, is nothing short of revolutionary. “To think that cargo volumes we once handled monthly are now processed daily,” he observes, underscoring…

Explore the remarkable journey of Sreeni Nair, Senior Vice President, Galaxy Freight, whose unwavering dedication, resilience, and empathy have left a lasting impact on the logistics industry, quietly shaping its progress and inspiring future generations. The logistics industry is a constantly evolving entity Sreeni Nair, whose narrative spanning three decades within the logistics sector, is a testament to the quiet dedication that underpins the industry’s vast machinery. His journey, from the repetitive tasks of document preparation to a senior leadership role, illuminates the often-overlooked contributions of individuals who form the backbone of this dynamic field. Nair’s story, marked by resilience,…

In today’s fast-paced world, where professional landscapes are constantly evolving, some values remain timeless. At Jeena & Company, one thing has stayed consistent since its inception in 1900: a deep commitment to its people. The hands-on management and positive work culture have been instrumental in shaping careers Workplaces are more than just spaces where tasks are completed; they are communities where careers are nurtured and lifelong bonds are forged. Jeena & Company exemplifies this philosophy, as reflected in the heartfelt testimonials of its former employees. Through decades of change, the company has upheld a culture where employees feel valued, respected,…

India’s manufacturing dreams hinge on addressing logistics and infrastructure challenges. Streamlined processes, better infrastructure, skilled labour, export focus, and transparency can propel the nation to global leadership. Insights from industry leader V. Chandra Kumar show the way. India stands at a critical juncture, ready to leverage global supply chain shifts and rising domestic demand. V. Chandra Kumar, Founder and Managing Director, Active Freight Logistics, highlights that initiatives like “Make in India” have laid a strong foundation. However, without addressing key hurdles—primarily in logistics and infrastructure—India risks losing its edge to global competitors like China and Vietnam. Efficient logistics is the…

Global trade is at a pivotal juncture where import tariffs dictate economic strategies, reshape supply chains, and redefine logistics efficiency. While these tariffs safeguard domestic industries, they also escalate costs, disrupt freight movement, and pose challenges for exporters and supply chain professionals. This edition delves into the far-reaching implications of tariff policies on logistics, warehousing, and trade resilience, bringing together expert perspectives on mitigating risks and optimising operations in a tariff-driven landscape. “Changing import tariffs in India hits logistics hard. You’re looking at increased transport costs and more complex supply chains. Higher tariffs mean higher import prices, delays, and a…

Tariffs play a crucial role in shaping economies, offering protection to domestic industries while potentially increasing costs for consumers. While they can safeguard jobs and foster innovation, they may also disrupt global trade and escalate economic tensions between nations. Tariffs, taxes levied on imported goods, represent a complex economic tool with both potential benefits and significant drawbacks. The decision to implement or increase tariffs requires careful balance, weighing the immediate advantages against the long-term consequences. Protecting domestic industry One of the primary arguments in favour of tariffs centres on the protection of domestic industries. Newly established or “infant” industries, struggling…

Dr. Joshua Ebenezer details India’s revised import origin rules, increasing importer burden for FTA claims and compliance. The Indian government has recently made a critical change to its Rules of Origin framework under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Through an amendment to Section 28DA of the Customs Act, 1962, the term ‘Certificate of Origin’ (CoO) has been replaced with ‘Proof of Origin’. While this might seem like a minor wording change, it carries major implications for importers and international trade compliance. Previously, FTAs required only a CoO for preferential duty. Now, Customs demands additional proof likeinvoices, production records, cost sheets, or other supporting documents to verify origin beyond the…

The 3rd CargoNXT Conference & Recognitions, in partnership with the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is set to take place on April 25, 2025, at The Orchid Hotel, Vile Parle (E), Mumbai. This edition’s theme, “Future-Ready Logistics: Driving India’s Global Trade Ecosystem,” underscores the critical role of logistics in propelling India towards its ambitious vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. Join us on April 25, 2025, at The Orchid Hotel, Mumbai, to be a part of this transformative journey! India’s logistics sector, valued at $250 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a…