JUPITER SEA & AIR SERVICES PVT. LTD, EGMORE – CHENNAI, INDIA.

 

E-MAIL : Robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in   Mobile : +91 98407 85202

 

 

Corporate News Letter for  Friday  February  27,  2025

Today’s Exchange Rates

CURRENCY▲	PRICE	CHANGE	%CHANGE	OPEN	PREV.CLOSE	DAY's LOW-HIGH
USD/INR	90.9025	0.057503	0.063218	90.84	90.96	90.8075- 90.9275
EUR/USD	1.1802	-0.0008	-0.06774	1.181	1.181	1.1798- 1.1829
GBP/INR	122.9157	-0.054298	-0.044156	123.2221	122.97	122.8817- 123.2842
EUR/INR	107.311	0.085693	0.079919	107.3861	107.2253	107.2733- 107.471
USD/JPY	156.03	-0.339996	-0.217431	156.36	156.37	155.699- 156.439
GBP/USD	1.3526	-0.0033	-0.243386	1.3559	1.3559	1.3519- 1.3575
DXY Index	97.692	-0.007996	-0.008184	97.589	97.70	97.489- 97.72
JPY/INR	0.5827	0.0021	0.361693	0.5818	0.5806	0.5814- 0.584

///                   Sea Cargo News            ///

Chennai Port Authority Hosts Hamburg Port Authority Delegation to Strengthen Indo-German Maritime Cooperation

Chennai Port Authority had the honour of hosting a distinguished delegation from the Hamburg Port Authority, led by Mr. Jens Meier, President of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) and CEO of HPA. The high-level visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening Indo-German maritime cooperation, fostering knowledge exchange, and advancing sustainable port development initiatives between the two leading port ecosystems.

During the visit, senior officials of Chennai Port Authority engaged in comprehensive discussions with the Hamburg delegation on key areas including port digitalisation, green port initiatives, decarbonisation pathways, smart logistics integration, and future-ready infrastructure planning.

The interaction provided a valuable platform to exchange best practices in port governance, innovation-driven operations and climate resilient maritime infrastructure.

India Holds Container Vessel on Suspected Cargo Origin Misdeclaration

Indian authorities have detained a container vessel at a western coast port over suspected misdeclaration of cargo origin, intensifying scrutiny on import documentation and trade compliance.

According to officials from the Indian Customs, the vessel was intercepted after discrepancies were found in the declared country of origin for multiple containers onboard. Preliminary checks indicated that certain consignments may have been incorrectly labelled to bypass trade restrictions or benefit from preferential tariff treatment under existing agreements.

The ship, which was carrying a mix of general merchandise and agricultural cargo, has been held pending detailed inspection and verification of supporting documents.

Custom authorities have initiated a thorough examination process including physical checks of containers, review of bills of lading, certificates of origin and communication with exporting entities.

Kamarajar Port Hosts Hamburg Port Authority Delegation, Strengthens Indo-German Maritime Ties

Kamarajar Port Limited had the privilege of hosting a distinguished delegation from Hamburg Port Authority, led by Jens Meier, President of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) and CEO of HPA, marking a significant step in strengthening Indo-German maritime cooperation.

The high-level visit underscored the growing collaboration between Indian and German port ecosystems, with discussions focused on sustainable port development, digital transformation, operational efficiency, and green energy initiatives.

Both sides explored avenues for enhanced cooperation in smart port technologies, decarbonisation strategies, and knowledge exchange to build resilient and future-ready maritime infrastructure. Senior officials of Kamarajar Port presented key initiatives undertaken to enhance capacity, improve multimodal connectivity, and adopt environmentally sustainable practices.

The delegation from Hamburg shared insights into advanced port management systems, automation and sustainability driven frameworks that have positioned Hamburg among Europe’s leading port hubs.

The interaction also emphasized the importance of global partnerships in addressing emerging challenges in maritime trade, climate resilience and supply chain optimization. Strengthening ties between Indian and German ports are expected to facilitate innovation, promote best practice sharing and open new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment.

Such engagements reflect a shared commitment to fostering robust, technology-driven and environmentally responsible port ecosystems that contribute to global trade growth and economic development.

Saudi Ports Authority Hosts Naming Ceremony for MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company Vessel “MSC Saudi Arabia”

The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) officially announced the naming of one of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company vessels as “MSC Saudi Arabia” during a high-level ceremony attended by senior Saudi dignitaries, underscoring the Kingdom’s rising prominence in global maritime trade.

The inauguration ceremony was led by H.E. Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, alongside Her Highness Princess Rasees AlSaud, in the presence of H.E. Eng. Suliman Al-Mazroua, President of Mawani.

The naming of the vessel marks a significant milestone, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s expanding role in international supply chains and the strategic importance of its ports within the global logistics ecosystem.

The initiative highlights the steady progress of the Kingdom’s transformation strategy aimed at positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading maritime and logistics hub connecting Asia, Europe and Africa. By associating the nation’s name with one of MSC’s vessels, the move signals growing confidence among global shipping lines in the operational excellence, infrastructure development and service capabilities of Saudi ports.

Following the naming ceremony, the Minister, accompanied by the President of Mawani, conducted an inspection tour aboard the vessel. During the visit, officials reviewed the ship’s advanced equipment and operational systems, featuring state-of-the-art maritime technologies designed to enhance efficiency, safety and environmental sustainability.

The event further demonstrates the strengthening partnership between Saudi Arabia’s maritime authorities and major global carriers. It aligns with the Kingdom’s broader vision to boost port competitiveness, expand logistics capacity, attract international investment and reinforce its standing as a key player in the global maritime sector.

Egypt to Run Ports and Customs Year-Round to Accelerate Cargo Clearance

Egypt has announced that its ports and customs authorities will operate year-round without seasonal interruptions, a move aimed at reducing cargo clearance times and improving trade efficiency. The decision is part of a broader government initiative to streamline logistics procedures, ease congestion at major gateways and support exporters and importers with faster turnaround.

By ensuring continuous operations across public holidays and peak seasons, authorities expect to minimize backlogs and accelerate the movement of goods through maritime terminals. Officials from the country’s customs administration indicated that extended working hours and enhanced staffing arrangements will be implemented at key ports, including facilities along the Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts. The reforms are also expected to leverage expanded digital documentation systems and risk based inspection protocols to further cut processing delays.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that unpredictable clearance timelines have historically increased storage costs and disrupted supply chains. Continuous operations are likely to benefit sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and energy, where timely cargo handling is critical.

The initiatives aligns with Egypt’s wider efforts to position itself as a competitive logistics hub connecting Africa, Europe and Asia. By reducing dwell times and enhancing operational consistency, the government aims to boost trade volumes, attract investment and strengthen the resilience of its maritime infrastructure.

Authorities stated that performance metrics will be monitored to ensure the new system delivers measurable improvements in efficiency and customer service across the country’s port network.

Dubai Ports Authority Becomes Member of International Association of Ports and Harbour

The Dubai Ports Authority has officially joined the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), marking a strategic step to strengthen its engagement with the global maritime community.

Through its membership, Dubai Ports Authority aims to enhance collaboration with leading port operators, maritime regulators and logistics stakeholders worldwide. The IAPH serves as a global platform representing ports across continents, focusing on policy advocacy, sustainability, digital transformation and operational excellence.

Officials stated that joining the association will provide access to international best practices, research initiatives and working groups addressing key industry challenges such as decarbonization, port resilience and supply chain digitization. The move is also expected to support knowledge exchange on green port development, alternative fuels and smart infrastructure.

Dubai’s port sector has been expanding rapidly, with investments in capacity upgrades, automation and multimodal connectivity. Membership in IAPH aligns with the emirate’s broader ambition to reinforce its position as a leading global maritime and logistics hub linking Asia, Europe & Africa.

Industry analysts note that active participation in international forums can enhance policy coordination and promote standardized approaches to safety, cyber security and environmental compliance. By joining IAPH, Dubai Ports Authority signals its intent to play a more prominent role in shaping the future direction of the ports and shipping industry.

The authority indicated it will contribute to IAPH committees and initiatives, leveraging its regional expertise while adopting global benchmarks to further strengthen operational performance and sustain-ability standards. 

DP World sets Chile record at San Antonio terminal

DP World has achieved a new vehicle discharge record at its terminal in Chile, marking a significant milestone in automotive cargo handling efficiency in the region.

The record was set during a recent vessel call, where thousands of vehicles were unloaded within a compressed operational window, surpassing previous benchmarks for productivity and turnaround time. Terminal officials attributed the achievement to coordinated berth planning, optimized yard allocation and the deployment of specialized roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) handling equipment.

The Chile terminal, which serves as a key gateway for automotive imports into the country, has seen steady growth in vehicle volumes driven by rising consumer demand and expanding dealership networks.

DP World, Chile’s leading provider of automotive logistics after successfully discharging 6,338 vehicles in a single vessel operation at its multipurpose terminal at the Port of San Antonio.

The operation, conducted from the vessel M/V Morning Lily, surpassed the previous national record of 6,185 vehicles set at the same terminal in 2021 and demonstrates DP World’s ability to manage high volume automotive cargo efficiently, safely and at scale, supported by specialized roll-on/roll-off infrastructure, optimized yard layouts and streamlined gate and delivery processes.

/////       AIR  CARGO   NEWS   /////

The port of New York / New Jersey launches flights from Newark to Puebla

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Volaris today announced the launch of non-stop flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to Puebla - Mexico, further expanding international connectivity between New York  & New Jersey region and Mexico.

The new Volaris service will begin on Tuesday June 02, 2026 with four weekly non-stop flights. With the addition of the Puebla route, Volaris will provide in the region with more direct and affordable access to central Mexico, serving leisure and business travellers as well as those visiting friends and relatives.

The new service strengthens EWR’s growing portfolio of international destinations and supports the Port Authority’s ongoing efforts to expand global connectivity from its airports, providing customers with more non-stop options while supporting economic and cultural exchange between regions.

The new service complements an ever growing array of international destinations offered at EWR. 2025 was EWR’s best and busiest ever for international travel, welcoming 15.4 million international passengers.

The new service will operate four days  week beginning Tuesday June 02, 2026. Service to Newark Liberty will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, with a 10.50 PM departure from PBC for 05.29 AM arrival at EWR. 

Service from Newark Liberty will operate on every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sundays with a 06.59 AM departure from EWR and arriving at Puebla by 10.15 AM same day.

GetJet Airlines signs long term ACMI deal with Eurowings

GetJet Airlines has signed a long term ACMI partnership with Eurowings, part of the Lufthansa Group. The agreement follows a competitive selection process.

From March 2026, six GetJet aircraft will operate from Hamburg Airport. The aircrafts will support Eurowings’ summer schedule. The added capacity will strengthen the Lufthansa Group’s European network.

GetJet Airlines CEO Inga Douglas said the partnership reflects the company’s focus on steady and responsible growth. She noted that reliability and quality played a key role in securing the agreement, especially during a period of market uncertainty.

GetJet Airlines operates a fleet of 17 aircraft. These include Boein 737-800 and Airbus A320 and A321 types. The airline continues to expand its ACMI business through operational consistency, controlled growth and strong in-house technical capabilities. 

BLR Airport ships 60 mn roses this season

As the Valentine’s season sparked peak global demand for fresh roses, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) shipped 60 million rose stems, weighing 2,700 MT, to 26 international and 47 domestic destinations.

The airport recorded a 38 per cent year-on-year increase in stem volumes and a 64 per cent rise in tonnage, reinforcing its position as India’s leading gateway for perishable exports for the fifth consecutive year. Global shipments remained steady at 305 MT, with Singapore emerging as the top overseas destination, followed by Kuala Lumpur, Abu Dhabi, New York, and Kuwait.

New international routes added this season included Los Angeles, London Gatwick, Dallas Fort Worth, Toronto, and Orlando, expanding the airport’s global footprint. On the domestic front, 2,402 MT of roses were ferried — marking a 79 per cent YoY increase in tonnage. Delhi and Kolkata continued to anchor demand, while Guwahati, Mumbai, and Jaipur sustained strong throughput.

Notably, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Lucknow recorded 150 per cent growth compared to last season. This surge was backed by expanded cargo infra at BLR Airport, designed to ensure freshness, speed, and temperature precision.

Oman Air Cargo Sets Sights on Expanding Asia Network

Oman Air Cargo is accelerating its expansion strategy in Asia, aiming to capture rising trade volumes and strengthen connectivity between the Middle East and key Asian markets. The carrier plans to enhance frequencies on existing routes and explore new destinations across South Asia, Southeast Asia and the Far East.

The move comes amid growing demand for time-sensitive shipments, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, perishables and e-commerce cargo moving between Asia and the Gulf region. Operating from its hub at Muscat International Airport, Oman Air Cargo is positioning itself as a strategic bridge linking Asian manufacturing centres with markets in the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

The airline is leveraging its geographic advantage to offer shorter transit times and competitive connections for regional exporters and importers.

Company officials indicated that investments in digital booking platforms, cold chain capabilities and specialized cargo handling are central to the expansion plan. Enhanced temperature-controlled facilities are expected to support the growing pharmaceutical and perishable segments, while improved tracking systems will provide customers with real time shipment visibility. 

Glasgow Prestwick Airport Marks Major E-Commerce Cargo Milestone

Glasgow Prestwick Airport has announced a significant milestone in its e-commerce cargo operations, underscoring the airport’s growing role as a specialist hub for express and parcel logistics in the United Kingdom.

Airport officials confirmed that e-commerce volumes have reached record levels, driven by sustained growth in cross-border online shopping and increased demand for rapid fulfillment services. The milestone reflects a steady rise in dedicated freighter movements and expanded partnerships with global logistics providers operating through Prestwick.

Located in southwest Scotland, the airport has positioned itself as a strategic alternative to congested UK gateways by offering 24/7 operations, streamlined customs processes and fast aircraft turnaround times. Its proximity to major road networks enables efficient onward distribution to key consumer markets across the UK and Ireland.

Investment in cargo handling infrastructure, including upgraded warehousing, sorting facilities and digital tracking systems has supported the surge in parcel volumes. The airport has also strengthened its ground handling capabilities to manage high frequency narrowbody and widebody freighter aircraft typically used in e-commerce operations.

Industry stakeholders note that regional airports such as Glasgow Prestwick are increasingly vital in supporting time-critical shipments,

Particularly during peak retail seasons. By expanding capacity and operational efficiency the airport aims to attract additional cargo operators and further consolidate its position in the fast growing e-commerce segment.

Airport management indicated that further infrastructure enhancements and strategic partnerships are planned to sustain momentum and accommodate future growth in international parcel traffic.

Ask Alan White, Chief Growth Officer, National Air Cargo what does the airline’s motto “The National Way” mean to air cargo and his answer is direct:      “We provide value-added, end-to-end solutions, maximize client satisfaction as a world-class logistics integrator with cutting-edge technology and innovative processes.      “National Air Cargo, Orlando’s home town airline to the world supports our customers helping to achieve above-market returns serving as a reliable strategic partner in managing their supply chains,”Alan White declared.      As for the impact of the AirCargo Event in Orlando, Mr. White enthused:      “This event was a great way to kick-off the year for National and allowed us to engage early with our partners, vendors and some new faces!      “We just wrapped our Global Strategy Meetings in Orlando (for the airline) and Buffalo for the forwarder and we are excited about what lies ahead for our company in 2026 and beyond.      “National continues to invest in advanced technologies that will help our customers and people work more seamlessly together.      ‘This year of 2026 is a dramatic and very exciting time as we will receive the first of our four Boeing 777F’s on order, by the end of Q-1.      “Game changer brand new B777Fs coming on line for us are a dramatic statement that advancement in capabilities are born to accelerate everything we do at National, including even more reliability and customer satisfaction, plus the ability to think new markets and  overall expansion of service opportunities.”      As 2026 is firmly underway we asked Alan White for a moment to cast a glance back to 2025.      “Despite the known challenges experienced in 2025,” he said, “we helped keep supply chains moving with our own airline and airline partners and surprisingly navigated through every challenge quite well.”      Typically, this all-cargo pro who is very supportive of this industry took a look at taking these thoughts even back a bit farther      “The ability of the industry to adapt quickly, engage with the relevant authorities, customers and stakeholders demonstrates quite clearly that post COVID pandemic, our industry has emerged with a voice that commands more attention and respect than ever.”      “Collaboration is the driver to all of our futures together and from my view we work to getting better every day.      “Looking ahead we will continue to invest in the future whether it is the investment in new aircraft, and technology that will speed up the supply chain process.      “We are totally focused on working even more closely with our customers and partners, assuring as example, that real time access up and down the line is a firm reality.”      When asked what objectives are prioritized that can be achieved to better the industry serving as a member of the AfA Board, based on his decades of service, Alan White declared:      “The AfA advocacy on ‘The Hill’ is one of our primary objectives.      “In the U.S., our industry needs to continue to be at the forefront of driving legislation and infrastructure development to ensure we are adequately equipped for the future growth.”      We wonder—why air cargo? We hear so much about careers and moving ahead in business in terms of longevity. Given an opportunity to do it all again, we wonder if Alan would choose building a career in air cargo?      Also, why should someone consider a career today in the industry and where and in what functions in cargo do you think there is a future?      Alan unpacked it all, straight from the shoulder, right from the heart:      “Air Cargo has given me a 30 year+ global career and has allowed me to work in every continent,” Alan White reflected.      “I spend a lot of time encouraging future entrants to this field that this work is one of the most rewarding careers, if you are willing to see it from every angle.      “Whilst we all feel impacted in one way or another by the development of AI and other technologies, the air cargo industry today calls for more innovative and imaginative people that will be drivers of what we achieve as an industry into the future.      “Air Cargo never stands still!      The old saying, ‘adapt or die’ is very relevant in 2026, in fact, more than ever.      “Customers’ demands will not slacken, so we have to be ahead of the curve driving change by embracing the tools that can make the industry more efficient.      “Of course, success to some degree is about heft, but I firmly believe it is also about heart.      “We are situate today in a global economy that demands innovative and expedient actions.      “A challenge in the U.S. today is that we must match or even exceed airport infrastructure that continues to emerge elsewhere in the world, especially visible in the Middle East and parts of Asia.      “Our company since its inception back in 1991 when National commenced services as a regional forwarder in the U.S. has always been focused on growth.      “Since start up National Air Cargo  has expanded its footprint into Europe, Asia, Middle East and Africa.      National Air Cargo diversified and became one of the very few companies that transformed from a freight forwarder to an integrated Part 121 air carrier.      “National Airlines commenced operations in 2006, with the acquisition of our first fleet.      “Today National fields a fleet of nine B747 freighters, 3 passenger A330’s and as mentioned earlier, in 2026 comes the integration of the first of 4 B-777Fs that will propel National Air Cargo to new heights! “National has not only survived, but impresses me, that in changing times continues to expand our offering by being true to its code.      Why National?      “National Airlines Cargo people are dedicated and reliable to partner with because we greet each day ready to run our fastest mile!” GDA/SSA

Chicago Rockford reports growing cargo volumes in 2025

                               Image: Shutterstock © David S. Swierczek

Chicago Rockford International recorded its second-busiest year for cargo volumes in 2025 thanks to expanded international partnerships.

The airport saw cargo volumes increased 9.25% year on year in 2025 to 3.4bn pounds.

“The year’s cargo performance reflects steady volumes from key carrier partners, expanded international partnerships, along with continued market demand for efficient, reliable operations in the Midwest,” the airport said in a press release.

RFD said that 2025 was its second busiest on record, beaten only by the Covid boom year of 2022. “Just four years later, the airport nearly matched those historic shipping levels and came within one cargo aircraft landing (approximately 113,000 pounds) of breaking the record,” RFD said.

RFD executive director Zack Oakley said: “Our cargo business is built on consistency, speed, and trust. “That’s why long -term partners continue to invest here, and why RFD continues to play an outsized role in the national supply chain and our regional economy.”

The airport added that in 2025, Amazon Air celebrated five years since opening its Rockford operation. The Amazon Air facility has expanded its activity and workforce over time, “underscoring RFD’s position as a place where large-scale cargo operations can succeed”.

 

I hope you have enjoyed reading the above news letter.                                                    

Robert Sands

Joint Managing Director

Jupiter Sea & Air Services Pvt Ltd

Casa Blanca, 3rd Floor

11, Casa Major Road, Egmore

Chennai – 600 008. India.

GST Number : 33AAACJ2686E1ZS.

Tel : + 91 44 2819 0171 / 3734 / 4041

Fax : + 91 44 2819 0735

Mobile : + 91 98407 85202

E-mail : robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in

Website : www.jupiterseaair.com 1Branches  : Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Tuticorin.

Associate Offices : New Delhi, Kolkatta, Cochin & Hyderabad.

 

Thanks  to  :  Container  News,  Indian Seatrade, Cargo Forwarder Global  &  Air Cargo News.