In India, the development of DFCs and internal waterways is set to augment logistics capability, presenting new opportunities for growth. As we look ahead, our focus remains on scaling through digital transformation and maintaining highest service standards, says Amit Tandon, CEO & MD, Asia Shipping India.
CT Bureau
How was growth and performance in 2024-25. How did it impact your operations?
The sector witnessed exceptional growth last year, driven by capacity expansion, cutting-edge technological advancements, and focusing on operational excellence and sustainability. The Red Sea crisis and resultant route diversions were a challenge for most part of the year. While rising costs posed another challenge, companies responded with innovative, sustainable and cost-effective supply chain solutions to enhance efficiency and profitability.
One of the key industry trends shaping this transformation was ecosystem integration, streamlining processes, improving connectivity, and reducing operational expenses. Multimodal transportation has played a pivotal role in optimising supply chains, integrating ocean, air, and road logistics to improve transit times and operational efficiency. In India, the development of DFCs and internal waterways is set to augment logistics capability, presenting new opportunities for growth. As we look ahead, our focus remains on scaling through digital transformation, strengthening our network and maintaining highest standards of service reliability.
How much have you invested in deploying tech and innovation in your operations?
The logistics industry is undergoing a digital revolution, with businesses investing in advanced technologies to enhance efficiency, transparency, and profitability. These innovations are reshaping global supply chains, making them agile, data-driven, and resilient.
We are at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging cutting-edge AI, data explosion, IoT, and automation to optimise supply chain operations and deliver superior customer experiences. AI-driven predictive analytics are transforming demand forecasting, enabling businesses to anticipate disruptions, manage inventories effectively and optimise decision-making. By leveraging real-time data insights, we can enhance operational efficiency and ensure seamless logistics management.
IoT-enabled fleet management is another game changer, providing real-time tracking and data-driven insights that optimise routes, minimise disruptions and improve operational control. By monitoring shipments with precision, we ensure timely deliveries and security for our clients. Automation and blockchain are streamlining logistics by optimising documentation, customs clearance, and workflow management.
What is your focus on sustainability & green logistics?
With the industry shifting focus towards lowering emissions, energy-efficient logistics and sustainable operations, we focus on reducing CO2 footprint through smarter fleet engagement and technology-driven efficiencies. By working closely with partners who prioritise sustainability, we contribute to a greener, responsible logistics ecosystem, while ensuring seamless and cost-effective operations.
What are the key market trends for 2025-26?
The pace of change in India is accelerating, and this year is poised to be a tipping point for innovation and capacity building across industries. 2025 will be pivotal due to rapid technological advancements, evolving consumer behaviour, and volatile geopolitical and market conditions. As we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape, forecasts and trend analysis have become indispensable for stakeholders worldwide to keep pace with the global disruptions and changes. Businesses must prioritise predictive analytics and trend analysis to navigate global demand dynamics and supply chains’ complexities.
With evolving trade agreements such as RCEP reshaping Asia’s trade landscape and geopolitical concerns disrupting markets in diverse ways, the firms need robust forecasting strategies to stay ahead. By incorporating political, economic, and social factors into forecasting models, they can prepare for challenges such as political changes, trade disputes and disruptions or fluctuating fuel and raw material costs. The value of data-driven insights in achieving supply chain efficiency cannot be underestimated. Predictive tools enhance decision-making and improve operational agility, enabling faster responses to market shifts. As the industry evolves, these capabilities will be essential to minimise risks, reduce costs, and deliver seamless supply chain solutions in a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. The demand for faster, transparent, and cost-effective delivery solutions is rising amid global crises.
What are the lessons learnt from the ongoing global crises?
The lessons of recent global crises have emphasised need for robust and agile supply chains. Predictive models empower stakeholders to address vulnerabilities and create contingency and redundancy plans for potential disruptions. In 2025, the industry will continue to serve as the backbone of global trade and commerce. Stakeholders who have prioritised business decisions based on predictions and trend analysis will be better equipped to adapt, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly changing environment.
Elaborate on your future roadmap & expansion plans?
As the logistics sector moves into 2025, we are focused on strategic expansion and digital transformation to enhance efficiency and optimise trade flows. A key priority is strengthening India’s regional presence by expanding logistics hubs in high-growth markets to reduce transit times and streamline operations. With India’s logistics infra evolving through dedicated freight corridors, expressways, enabling network of domestic air cargo and modernised ports capable of entertaining largest cargo ships, we are committed to facilitating linkage and enabling seamless global trade. Technology will remain at the core of our growth strategy. Investments in digital platforms will streamline operations, offering real-time shipment tracking, automated booking processes, and improved customer interactions.
