The 25th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations in India (FFFAI) ended with a high note, a commitment to reach the goal of ‘Vikshit Bharat @2047started. The much sought-after global confluence, held from May 29-31, 2025 at Taj Cidade De, Goa, was attended by more than 700 delegates and their spouses from different parts of India and across the Globe. Apart from a glittering as well as spirited Inauguration programme, there were six Business Sessions and three motivational sessions in the Convention. In addition, about 600 B2B meetings and offline interactions between the delegates reached the Silver Jubilee Convention a new high achieving another milestone and setting new benchmark.
The Inauguration of the 3 days Convention was addressed by Rohan Ashok Khaunte, Minister for Tourism & IT Government of Goa as Chief Guest; Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Charman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) as Keynote Speaker; FFFAI Charman Dushyant Mulani; Immediate Past Chairman and Convention Chairman. Shankar Shinde; Chairman Elect Amit Kamat; Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, former Secretary General, World Customs Organisations; Capt. BVJK Sharma, CEO, Adani Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd., and Niraj Ambani, Group President, Reliance Industries Ltd.
Welcoming the dignitaries and delegates Shankar Shinde stated that FFFAI Convention is not only a gathering of cream of the logistics service providers, it makes declarations on the critical role being played by the industry stakeholders in shaping up the future of Exim trade as well as the country’s economy towards ‘Vikshit Bharat’ by 2047. “It’s a declaration that logistics is no longer back office — it is front page. That supply chains are not just pipelines — they are lifelines. And that we — the partners in supply chain freight — and not just facilitators of trade, we are architects of transformation,” Shinde stressed.
According to him, collaborative and integrated logistics should be the way forward as the industry experienced from Covid Pandemic period. “We live in an era where geopolitics shapes supply chains, where data travels faster than cargo, and where partnerships — not products — determine performance,” he added.
In his opinion, collaboration is no longer optional. It is the only option. When the industry speaks of enhancing strategic partnership, it is laying down a four-pillar vision:
1. Policy Synergy – Working with government to make regulation a platform, to facilitate.
2. Digital Fusion – Integrating with technology to bring agility, transparency, and scale.
3. Global Connectivity – Tapping into international trade corridors, FTAs, and market access to put India on the map — and at the helm.
4. Fraternity First – Learning from each other, backing each other, and rising together as a collective force.
In his opening address FFFAI Chairman Dushyant Mulani said that the logistics industry should also learn from the recent Defense exercise called “Operation Sindoor” which was meticulously executed by India’s strong Defense logistics infrastructure and operations. “We are proud of our Defense Logistics set up and should convey the message to the world that India is also a strong logistics hub for the manufacturing Exim trade,” he asserted. He also underlined the importance of FFFAI as an association which has evolved and established as an umbrella organization of 31 Member Associations from across the country thanks to the wisdom and hard work of its predecessors during the past 62 years. The Federation is now focused on skill development through its training arm Indian Institute of Freight Forwarders and Women Wing to woo young entrepreneurs and enhance domain knowledge of the industry professionals. With this the Federation created significant career opportunities for freshers/aspirants. FFFAI is also closely working with the CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Ports & Shipping, Ministry of Civil Aviation and other allied Ministries, Government of India to facilitate the Exim logistics operations pan India. “With technology support like AI and global integration Indian logisticians should explore the global market aggressively,” the Mr. Mulani added.
The FFFAI Chairman also commended trade-friendly initiatives of CBIC and Government of India which is focused on paperless transactions, digitization and infrastructure building for world class logistics operations.
CBIC Chairman Sanjay Agarwal while delivering his Keynote Address highlighted the recent technology-driven trade facilitation initiatives in line with the National Logistics Policy and Ease of Doing Business mandates of the Government of India. He appreciated FFFAI’s contribution towards the endeavour of CBIC with a global outlook for the larger interest of the Exim trade. The CBIC Chairman pointed out the gradual improvement in cargo clearance time by significantly reducing dwell time at various ports and border check posts. He also highlighted India’s significant improvement in World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI), with a target to be within top 25 countries by 2030. It is pertinent to mention that India is ranked 38th out of 139 countries, according to the 2023 LPI report. The country’s logistics sector is also projected to grow significantly, reaching a market size of Rs. 42.35 lakh crore (US$ 484.43 billion) by 2029.
Aggarwal also emphasised proper data management/data analysis regarding the current scenario and future requirements of logistics services which may be sourced by logistics service providers. “With Industry collaboration CBIC is committed to Trade Facilitation and Ease of Doing Business adhering to the highest level of compliances and security,” he stated. The CBIC Chairman emphasized that due to the partnership between CBIC and FFFAI the logistics industry would be immensely benefited.
According to him, Customs is very sincere in facilitating MSME by providing level playing field to this sector making Supply Chain Management seamless, uniform examination order by reducing physical examination, and ease in uploading online NOC to compete with global market. He shared the findings of National Time Release Studies which would support the Government in taking further trade facilitation measures. He informed that Customs is working for an Integrated System having the logistics stakeholders on board.
Dr. Kunio Mikuriya also emphasised on Public Private Partnership in trade facilitation as experienced across the globe. He commended Government of India and Indian Customs in this regard. He also recommended the Indian logistics industry stakeholders to focus on the IT initiatives to go with the global requirements based on the country’s strength in this sector. He further urged for data-driven trade facilitation measures.
While addressing the gathering the Rohan Ashok Khaunte appreciated FFFAI for organizing its Silver Jubilee Convention in Goa. Significantly FFFAI organised its first Annual Convention in Goa itself. He invited FFFAI to have strategic partnership with the Government of Goa to facilitate skill development initiatives and create logistics infrastructure. The Minister said that Goa is not about beach tourism, it is a lucrative destination for MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Conference & Exhibition) tourism and manufacturing & logistics business. He pointed out that Goa has two airports which are well equipped with all facilities for cargo handling. He emphasized on synergy between the Govt. of Goa and FFFAI in IT initiatives, MICE Tourism and logistics services.
The Goa Logistics and Warehousing Policy, 2023, aims to develop a robust and efficient logistics ecosystem in the state, granting industry status to the sector. It focuses on leveraging Goa’s existing infrastructure (ports, airports, rail, and road networks) to create opportunities in warehousing and container logistics. The policy also emphasizes skill development, technological advancements, and environmental sustainability within the logistics sector.
In this Convention FFFAI felicitated Costa Fernandes, a brave officer who took down smugglers and paid a heavy price for justice. While introducing him, Amit Kamat, Chairman Elect FFFA highlighted that born on April 26, 1942, in Cabinda, Angola, Fernandes is an Angolan diplomat who has served as ambassador to Egypt, India, and the United Kingdom. It was his tenure as a Preventive Officer with Goa Customs beginning in 1979 that gained him recognition
Remarkably, based on the heroic activities during his stint of an honest and brave Customs officer, film star Nawazuddin Siddiqui starred a film ‘Costao’ on ZEE5. Costa Fernandes received President’s Award in 1996 for his bravery. The film is inspired by the extraordinary life of Antonio Fwaminy da Costa Fernandes, who is widely known as Tony da Costao Fernandes. He was a fearless customs officer whose bravery left an incredible mark on Indian law enforcement history.
Business Sessions:
In line with the theme “Enhancing Strategic Partnerships: Unleashing Potential,” six Business Sessions were focused on collaboration between Customs Brokers, Freight Forwarders, other Logistics Stakeholders both in India and with overseas counterparts is a must to achieve the “Viksit Bharat@2047”. The Business Sessions on the following topics were enthusiastically attended by around 500 delegates on all three days:
1.Vision 2047 – Unleashing India’s Potential towards Viksit Bharat
2.Opportunities in the Geo-Political Landscape & enhancing Strategic Partnerships
3.Infrastructure fueling India’s Logistics Growth
4.Importance of Digital Intelligence and Data Management
5. A New Era in Logistics, India and the World
6.Developing Resilience for Long Term Sustenance
A galaxy of domain experts/speakers from across the globe provided their thought-provoking deep insights on above topics predominantly focused on self-reliance, innovation, resilience and determination to thrive through a sustainable way.
The speakers included: ·
· Unmesh Wagh – Chairman JNPA
· Sushil Kumar Singh – Chairman DPA
· Dr Sudhir Kohakade – DDG Shipping
· Dr Sudhanshu Mani – Founder Vande Bharat
· Turgut Erkeskin – President FIATA
· Mikhail Goncharov – SG, CCTT
· Denis Bandura – MD, BBC Chartering
· Dr Pritam Banerjee – Head – WTO Studies, Ministry of Commerce
· Edward Keiswetter, Chairman, WCO
· Haresh Lalwani, Jt. MD-Sun Logistics
· Sagar Kadu – DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce
· Dr. Ennarasu Karunesan – Regional Director, IAPH
· Captain BVJK Sharma – CEO, Adani NMIA
· Yogender Singh, Commissioner (IT), CBIC
· Aniruddha Lele – CEO, NSFT
· Tej Contractor, President IIFF
· Jayendran V – Professor, IIT Bombay
· Parvinder Singh – MD, Hans Infomatic
· Meera Kumar – CEO, Diabos FZE
· Vineet Malhotra – CMD, Kale Logistics
· Jayendran V – Professor, IIT Bombay
· Parvinder Singh – MD, Hans Infomatic
· Meera Kumar – CEO, Diabos FZE
· Vineet Malhotra – CMD, Kale Logistics
· Dr Joshua Ebenezer, Expert in customs and international trade
· Sumit Giri – Ministry of Revenue, Bhutan
· Oleg Puzynin – CCTT
· John Martin – C-Revenue Officer, BlyChain
· Nora Dihel – Senior Economist-Macroeconomics Trade and Investment, World Bank
· Vishal P Mehta – CEO, Rushabh Sealink
· Himanshu Tiwari – Partner, KMPG
· Lenny Abrao – MD, Abrao Group
· Edwin Jesudas – GM – Head Import Export & Customs, Siemens Ltd
· Amit Maheshwari – CEO, Softlink Global
· Nilesh Gandhi – MD, Express Global
Major Highlights:
BS-1: Moderated by Shantanu Bhadkamkar, Past President, FFFAI, the speakers unveiled India’s growth story and strong fundamentals to reach India towards ‘Viksit Bharat@2047’. The session also pointed out India’s continuous effort in reducing the logistics cost from the existing 18% to 8% of the GDP to compete with the world.
In this respect the speakers emphasized adoption of smart technology and multimodal transportation.
Augmentation of Indian shipping tonnage, development of coastal shipping, inland waterways and increase of containerized cargo by Indian Railways have been the major focus of this session.
With a policy framework viz PM Gati Shakti and National Logistics Policy in place, a holistic legal revamp, incorporation of digital compliance, international standards and a structured approach via consultations and coordination were also emphasized.
The speakers underlined the importance of the Role of Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarders in contributing to reduction of logistics cost drastically there by making Indian exports globally competitive.
Session – 2 — Pondering on a volatile Geo-Political landscape and need of Strategic Trade Partnerships to sail through the turbulences, the Moderator Samir Shah, Past Chairman, FFFAI explained the ongoing global trade scenario and role of the Customs Brokers/Freight Forwarders which needs to be driven by skill and domain knowledge.
Expert speakers in this session highlighted the changing FTA dynamics and Trade Facilitation initiatives of Indian Customs & Government of India to safeguard the National Economy. They also explained the shifting of global political power houses and their impacts on international trade. For instance, post 2008-09 global economic crisis China emerges much stronger and started in competing even the high-tech sector. As a result, the USA realized the China threat and the conflict increased with imposition of new tariff on Chinese products and shifting the manufacturing hubs to Vietnam, India and others.
New trade lanes and transportation routes like INSTC were also the talking points to make Indian products less expensive supported by reduced logistics cost and less transit time.
Session-3
Business Session-3 on ‘Infrastructure-Fueling India’s Logistics Growth showcased the recent logistics infrastructure logistics development facilitated by the government, private sector as well as through PPP mode. The session was moderated by Mr Haresh Lalwani, Jt. MD-Sun Logistics.
The speakers pointed out that India to be the 3rd largest economy by 2027, to reach the GDP mark of $5 Tn by 2030, and $35 Tn by 2047. India’s aim is to be the Global Manufacturing Hub pursuing ‘Make in India’. Accordingly, Make India’s supply chains have to be robust and resilient.
It is pertinent to mention the following developments in the country:
- 11 Corridors along existing manufacturing clusters and transportation networks.
- Perspective planning for industrial ecosystem along industrial corridors.
- Road, Rail, Port, MMLP, Power, Gas infrastructure for industrial ecosystem and reduced logistics cost.
- World class next generation airports are being developed.
- States have contributed significantly for external connectivity and multi modal infrastructure.
- Maritime Vision 2030 and Amrit kaal Vision 2047 in place.
- Integral digital logistics system initiated.
- Logistics Parks are being developed across India.
Session 4
The Business Session on the importance of Digital Intelligence and Data Management elaborated on emergence of technologies armed with Artificial Intelligence and Block Chain and disruptions in traditional models of transport & logistics and supply chain management as an obvious impact. At the same time innovations of data management, data analysis and data security are also equally discussed to give a caution, so that things do not reach beyond control resulting in catastrophic effects.
Adoption of smart technology is the key behind smart logistics encompassing devices and systems that incorporate intelligence, connectivity, and automation to enhance functionality and user experience. It involves features like artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, data processing, and machine learning, allowing devices to understand and adapt to their environment or user interactions.
Digital transformation goes beyond acquiring new tools; it requires substantial changes in organizational behavior, leadership, communication, and workflows. It was also underlined that in logistics speed is essential, but smart speed is the future which is driven by digital intelligence and effective data management.
Session 5
Moderated by Dr. Joshua Ebeneezer, this session highlighted the happenings in this New Era of Logistics in the Globe and its impact on India. The moderator with his vast studies and experiences in this sector explained the prevailing scenario.
In this session the speakers from different parts of the world emphasized on an integrated logistics connectivity and stronger regional cooperation to facilitate cross-border trade.
The session also focused on the India-Russia trade corridor and the broader Eurasian logistics landscape, potential of multimodal routes and railway/sea-based corridors for cost-effective and efficient trade.
The strategic role of India in enhancing cross-border logistics and trade facilitation for neighboring countries, promoting smoother cargo movement and regional economic integration were also emphasized.
It was unveiled by the speakers that global supply chains are undergoing profound transformation, driven by diversification strategies and “friend-shoring” initiatives. Amidst this shift, India has emerged as a pivotal player, offering both resilience and strategic position.
India stands at the threshold of becoming a global logistics powerhouse, driven by strategic infrastructure investments, policy reforms, and technological innovation. This transformation presents unprecedented opportunities for freight forwarders who are willing to embrace change and adapt their business models to the evolving landscape.
In this session the speakers highlighted how blockchain can revolutionize transparency across global logistics networks. The speakers also pondered on digital reform and policy alignment to enhance trade efficiency.
Session 6
The final Business Session on Developing Resilience for Long Term Sustenance was moderated by Anand Seth, MD, CKB Global Logistics. The session highlighted the following aspects in recent times as far as logistics operations and way forward are concerned, in the context of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, ambiguity:
- Grab opportunities from challenges
- Turn best of times from worst of times
- Adopt risk mitigation strategies
- Strengthen agile partnerships
- Work on advanced risk monitoring system with Smart Digital Infrastructure
- Enhance ownership, not giving it away
- Create brand identity, focus on collective wealth
- Create the right platform for next generation talent
- Go for blend with asset-light with asset-backed services
- Strengthen forward-backward integration
- Develop skills of your employees, which allows career growth and retain talent
The session also highlighted that the era of globalisation and digitisation has made it easier for companies to explore newer markets where even local businesses are going global with the help of technology.
Customer support is the key differentiator factor to keep ahead of the competition. So, streamlining the supply chain with technology and other factors conclude to one point is to keep customers happy. So, it is imperative to adapt emerging technologies and implement the ones that help to increase the level of service to the customers.
Special Sessions
Significantly, in this Convention there were three Motivational Sessions which boosted the delegate.
Captain Raghu Raman; world famous cricketer Jonty Rhodes, Lt Gen KJS Dhillon and Shiv Aroor, Managing Editor, NDTV interacted on efficient logistics similar to army logistics, disciplined work culture, dedication, responsibilities towards the nation as well as colleagues, teamwork and consistency which are the key factors in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Session on Women Empowerment: The day 3 of the FFFAI Convention in Goa on May 31, 2025 witnessed a very encouraging session on Women in Logistics. The session was moderated by Chaitaly Mehta, Convenor FFFAI Women’s Wing, and addressed by Philumena V Perera; Mentor FFFAI Women’s Wing and Nora Dihel, Senior Consultant, WTO. The interactive session was focused on the gradual changes in the male dominated logistics industry in India and role of FFFAI in wooing the women in this sector through awareness/skill development programmes.
B2B Meetings:
In this Silver Jubilee Convention of FFFAI about 600 B2B Meetings took place at the 25th Biennial Convention of FFFAI held at Taj Cidade De Goa from May 29 to 31 2025. Coordinated by Vinod Sharma, Past Hony. Secretary, FFFAI the B2B Meetings held between Customs Brokers, Freight Forwarders, IT Service Providers, NVOCCs and various trade bodies who were present in the Convention from across India and foreign countries. The convention was organised to shape up the future course of actions by logistics service providers in line with the mission ‘Vikshit Bharat @2047’ with a collaborative approach for win-win benefits and larger interest of the Exim trade, thereby the economy of the country.
Vote of Thanks:
Sudip Dey, Hony. Secretary, FFFAI proposed a vote of thanks expressing his sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, Keynote Speakers, other dignitaries and all the delegates from across the country and overseas destinations who actively participated and interacted at the Business/ beyond Business Sessions and networking programmes.
“The 25th Biennial Convention could not be concluded so meticulously without strong leadership of FFFAI Charman Dushyant Mulani; Immediate Past Chairman and Convention Convenor Shankar Shinde; Chairman Elect Amit Kamat and supported by all other Office Bearers/EC Members from across the country. I express my regards and sincere thanks to all of them,” he added.
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