Cargo and logistics companies are urging the government to simplify customs regulations and step up investments in multimodal infrastructure to support India’s expanding export ambitions.
Industry leaders say the National Logistics Policy has set the right direction, but sustained execution is crucial. “The continued push for multimodal infrastructure under the National Logistics Policy remains critical not just for the economy but also to support India’s growing export ambitions,” said R S Subramanian, Senior Vice President (South Asia), DHL Express.
Subramanian emphasised the need for simplified customs procedures, improved infrastructure and a trust-based regulatory environment to bring down logistics costs and improve efficiency.
Government initiatives such as PM Gati Shakti and the development of dedicated freight corridors have already strengthened connectivity and infrastructure. These efforts, coupled with policy reforms, have contributed to India’s improved ranking in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index. The government is also actively working to diversify export markets for Indian goods and services.
However, industry stakeholders believe more needs to be done. “The government should allocate a sizeable amount to logistics infrastructure with a multimodal masterplan, introduce tax incentives for quick-commerce innovators and encourage adoption of green equipment,” said Yashpal Sharma, CMD of Skyways Group and former President of the Air Cargo Forum of India.
Courier and express operators, meanwhile, are seeking regulatory amendments to ease import and export processes. “Currently, export shipments valued over ₹10 lakh or import parcels containing perishable commodities sent by courier must be customs-cleared at cargo terminals, which is time-consuming,” an industry executive said. “These restrictions should be removed, and rules amended to make India’s EXIM trade more competitive and efficient.”
The logistics sector believes that targeted policy support, streamlined regulations and sustained infrastructure investments will be key to reducing costs and positioning India as a global export and logistics hub.
