In a major shift for the freight forwarding sector, Frankfurt Airport has lost its long-held status as Europe's top air freight hub to Istanbul Airport, according to the German Aviation Association (BDL). Despite a 6% global rise in air cargo volumes in 2024, Frankfurt managed only a 1.2% increase, while Istanbul surged ahead with a 39.6% jump in freight transport. The BDL attributes this decline to high ground handling costs, regulatory inefficiencies, and bureaucratic hurdles issues that are weakening Germany’s position in supply chain and freight forwarding. In contrast, airports in neighboring countries, such as Istanbul, are offering more competitive logistics environments, with lower operating expenses and faster freight processing times. To address these challenges, the BDL has proposed a five-point action plan. This includes reducing state-imposed ground fees, digitizing EU aviation safety compliance, standardizing customs law enforcement, streamlining import VAT collection, and allowing more flexible scheduling at air cargo centers. These reforms aim to strengthen freight systems supply chain solutions in Germany and prevent further erosion of its logistics competitiveness.
Kandla Port has launched a series of transformative infrastructure initiatives to strengthen its role in port logistics in the supply chain and establish itself as a global maritime hub. With a focus on connectivity, operational efficiency, and safety, the port’s latest developments are strategically designed to enhance cargo movement and seafarer welfare. A key highlight is the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Seafarer Centre, offering holistic welfare facilities including a waiting lounge, medical room, salon, gym, café, music and yoga zones, swimming pool, and more. This initiative underscores the port's commitment to improving the well-being of maritime workers, who are integral to global shipping ports and freight handling operations. To improve cargo evacuation and reduce India port congestion, Kandla Port has extended its railway infrastructure by 750 meters, connecting Berths 13 to 16 with the Kutch Salt Junction. This development complements the upcoming Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC), promising faster and more efficient freight transport and easing port congestion in India. Further reinforcing safety, the port has also established a dedicated Fire Brigade Station equipped with modern infrastructure, including a 50 KL underground water tank, ensuring rapid emergency response capabilities. These initiatives reflect Kandla Port’s vision of evolving into a smart port and supply chain leader, driving sustainable growth and boosting India’s competitiveness in global trade.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), India’s largest port developer and operator, is preparing for a landmark financial move by launching a ₹5,000 crore bond issue on Thursday. This 15-year rupee bond sale will be the biggest-ever domestic bond offering by the company and marks its first foray into such a long-duration issuance. According to market insiders, the bond's coupon is expected to range between 7.7% and 8%. The funds raised are likely to strengthen APSEZ’s infrastructure investments, aiding the expansion of port logistics in supply chain operations. This move comes at a critical time when India port congestion has been a growing concern, especially amid rising import-export demands and infrastructural bottlenecks. As a leader in shipping ports and freight handling, APSEZ plays a crucial role in streamlining cargo movements across India’s coastline. This bond issuance may further support the development of smart port and supply chain systems, enhancing efficiency, reducing turnaround times, and integrating digital tools for seamless logistics. With global trade flows increasing, APSEZ’s bold capital market strategy signals its long-term commitment to transforming India’s maritime infrastructure and resolving port congestion in India through sustainable investments and innovation.
Breaking away from the metro-centric startup narrative, Adloggs Technologies Pvt. Ltd., founded in Avinashi, Tamil Nadu, is redefining logistics and supply chain management from the grassroots. In just four years, the company has evolved into a robust logistics chain management platform that seamlessly integrates small businesses, gig workers, and advanced technology. Founded by Darshan Krishnasamy, Adloggs offers one of the best logistics strategies for businesses operating in India’s hyperlocal markets. The company currently enables over 30,000 deliveries daily and is on track to scale to 1,00,000 orders per day by FY26. At the core of its success lies its AI-powered order allocation engine and a strong network of over 1,000 local delivery agencies. These tools enable real-time logistics planning while improving efficiency and demand visibility key challenges in logistics and distribution services. Darshan explains, “We designed Adloggs to solve everyday chaos in logistics services from managing multiple vendors to ensuring timely deliveries with transparency.” The platform supports demand forecasting in logistics, helping businesses better plan operations. More than just logistics planning software, Adloggs promotes micro-entrepreneurship by enabling ex-servicemen and gig workers to start logistics packaging and delivery agencies with minimal capital. This decentralized model is creating sustainable employment and reshaping logistics and supply chain trends across India.
FourKites, a global leader in digital supply chain transformation, has announced the appointment of Luis Solana to its Strategic Advisory Council. With decades of experience in supply chain management, Solana has led transformative initiatives for top-tier companies including Henkel, Bridgestone, Colgate-Palmolive, and DHL. His role at FourKites will involve shaping the company’s product innovation strategy, enhancing market expansion, and advancing its electronic supply chain management capabilities. Solana’s career reflects deep expertise in supply and chain management, with a focus on automating traditional systems into intelligent, self-orchestrating platforms. His work aligns with FourKites’ mission to redefine the future of supply chain management through AI-powered visibility, predictive analytics, and future supply chain tracking technologies. “Companies that embrace digital and autonomous capabilities will lead the next era of competitive advantage,” said Solana, who is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese and has worked across the U.S., Mexico, and Brazil. A Harvard MBA and expert in SCM supply chain management, Solana is affiliated with Tompkins Ventures, Ceiba Capital Partners, and several venture capital networks, supporting innovation and supply chain financing for emerging businesses. His experience will contribute to FourKites' Supply Chain Management Development Program, helping enterprises adopt advanced supply chain management software.
Anand Dhabu
India Business Head for Super sonic India & Head Global SCM & Procurement, Assudamal & Sons (HK) LimitedAnupam Shrotary
Head of Supply Chain India and South East Asia, Kimberly ClarkRitesh Kumar
Co-Founder & CEO, TranZactVijay Kumar Jadhav
Program Manager: SCM & Facilities Excellence, EatonIncrease your brand visibility and thought leadership in Industry
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