Congestion at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPT) is significantly increasing logistics expenses for exporters, with additional costs estimated at up to ₹30,000 per container as delays continue to disrupt cargo movement through the country’s busiest container gateway.
Exporters and logistics service providers report that prolonged truck queues, yard congestion, extended container dwell times and delays in cargo evacuation have collectively raised operational costs. The additional expenses stem from higher transportation charges, container detention fees, warehousing costs and disruptions to supply chain schedules.
JNPT handles a substantial share of India’s containerized trade and serves as a critical gateway for exports of engineering goods, textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive components and agricultural products. Any disruption at the port has a ripple effect across supply chains, affecting exporters, freight forwarders, shipping lines and transport operators.
Industry representatives have expressed concern that rising logistics costs could erode the competitiveness of Indian exports in international markets, particularly at a time when global trade remains challenged by geopolitical uncertainties, fluctuating freight rates and soft demand in some regions. Small and medium-sized exporters are expected to be among the most affected, as they have limited ability to absorb additional costs.
The congestion has also led to shipment delays, increasing the risk of missed sailing schedules and longer transit times. Exporters handling time-sensitive cargoes have reported difficulties in maintaining delivery commitments, prompting some companies to explore alternative ports and logistics routes where feasible.
Stakeholders have called for immediate measures to ease bottlenecks, including improved traffic management, faster cargo clearance processes, enhanced coordination among port terminals and greater use of digital systems to streamline operations. Industry bodies have also urged authorities to address infrastructure constraints to prevent recurring disruptions.
Despite the current challenges, JNPT continues to play a vital role in India’s trade ecosystem, handling millions of containers annually and supporting the country’s export growth ambitions. Port authorities and logistics stakeholders are working to improve operational efficiency and reduce congestion levels to ensure smoother cargo flows.
As exporters prepare for upcoming shipment cycles, the industry will closely monitor developments at JNPT, with hopes that corrective measures can restore normal operations and contain the rising logistics costs affecting India’s export sector.
