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

 

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

 

 

Corporate News Letter for  Wednesday  April 29,  2026

Today’s Exchange Rates

CURRENCY▲	PRICE	CHANGE	%CHANGE	OPEN	PREV.CLOSE
USD/INR	94.55	0.350006	0.371556	94.37	94.20
EUR/USD	1.1699	-0.0022	-0.187698	1.1721	1.1721
GBP/INR	127.551	-0.070297	-0.055083	127.7481	127.6213
EUR/INR	110.5511	-0.029198	-0.026404	110.5898	110.5803
USD/JPY	159.492	0.072006	0.045168	159.42	159.42
GBP/USD	1.3494	-0.0041	-0.302916	1.3535	1.3535
JPY/INR	0.5933	0.0013	0.219591	0.5908	0.592

///                   Sea Cargo News            ///

New MoU Boosts Hyundai’s $4 Billion Shipyard Proposal in Tamil Nadu

Hyundai’s proposed $4 billion shipyard project in Tamil Nadu has gained fresh momentum following the signing of a new memorandum of understanding, reinforcing plans for one of the region’s largest maritime industrial investments.

The proposed mega shipyard is expected to significantly enhance India’s shipbuilding capacity, support export-oriented manufacturing, and strengthen the country’s position in the global maritime industry.

Officials indicate that the project could create substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities while attracting ancillary industries involved in steel fabrication, marine equipment, engineering, and logistics. Tamil Nadu’s strong industrial base, skilled workforce, and coastal connectivity continue to make it an attractive destination for large-scale manufacturing and shipbuilding investments.

Industry observers say the project aligns with India’s broader ambitions to expand domestic shipbuilding capabilities, reduce import dependence and emerge as a competitive hub for vessel construction and repair.

Further details on timelines, land allocation and implementation phases are expected as discussions progress under the new agreement.

India’s Maritime Sector Emerges as Growth Engine, Turnaround Time Nearly Halved: Sonowal

India’s maritime sector has undergone a significant transformation over the past 12 years, emerging as a major driver of economic growth, according to Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

In a recent social media post, the minister highlighted the country’s “maritime rise,” pointing to key achievements under the Sagarmala initiative. He noted that operational efficiency at ports has improved considerably, with average turnaround time for ships reduced from 96 hours in 2014 to 49 hours.

Sonowal also underscored the expansion of inland waterways, reporting a seven-fold increase in cargo movement through this mode. Additionally, India handled a record 915 million tonnes of cargo during the last financial year, reflecting the sector’s growing capacity and performance.

The minister emphasized that India’s maritime progress now goes beyond infrastructure development, focusing on building a comprehensive ecosystem. He said the sector’s growth is enhancing trade, creating employment opportunities and improving connectivity across the country.

India to Deploy Special Vessels to West Asia to Lower Export Freight Costs

The Indian government is planning to introduce special vessel services to West Asia in a move aimed at reducing logistics costs for exporters and improving trade competitiveness in key Gulf markets.

The initiative is expected to provide more direct and cost-efficient maritime connectivity, helping exporters mitigate high freight rates and improve delivery timelines for shipments to countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

Officials indicate that the proposed vessel services will focus on high-demand trade routes, supporting sectors such as engineering goods, textiles, chemicals, agri-products, and marine exports.

The plan is also aligned with efforts to strengthen India’s maritime logistics ecosystem, reduce dependency on transshipment hubs, and enhance predictability in supply chains amid global shipping volatility.

Exporters have long raised concerns over rising shipping costs to West Asia, a critical market for Indian goods. The proposed intervention is expected to provide relief, particularly for small and medium exporters facing margin pressures.

Further operational details, including route structure and implementation timelines are expected to be announced after consultations with shipping stakeholders and logistics operators.

CONCOR Launches New Solar Cargo Rail Service from Jaipur to Chennai

Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) has expanded its domestic logistics footprint with the launch of a new rail-based movement of solar modules from Kanakpura (Jaipur) to Chennai, marking another milestone in its growing portfolio.

The Inland Container Depot (ICD) at Jaipur has already demonstrated its capability in handling solar cargo, having successfully transported four rakes to Karnataka in partnership with TCI and Renew Solar. Building on that momentum, the newly launched service offers a comprehensive first-mile to last-mile logistics solution.

Cargo is picked up directly from the Mahindra SEZ manufacturing facility in Jaipur and delivered straight to project sites in Chennai. The operation utilizes 45 newly designed 40-foot domestic containers developed by CONCOR specifically for light cargo. This rail based solution is positioned as both eco-friendly and cost efficient, aligning with the broader push toward reducing carbon emissions in logistics.

Beyond supporting solar manufacturers in Jaipur, the service is also expected to benefit traders in Chennai by enabling efficient return cargo movement using the same container fleet. This two-way logistics optimization enhances, asset utilization and reduces empty returns.

With this initiative, CONCOR continues to strengthen its domestic logistics segment while reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and innovative supply chain solutions.

India Restricts Bangladesh Garment Imports via Land Routes; Domestic Textile Sector Eyes ₹2,000 Crore Boost, Prices May Rise Slightly

India has moved to restrict garment and select product imports from Bangladesh through land ports, a decision that could unlock a ₹1,000–2,000 crore opportunity for the domestic textile industry. The notification, issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), still allows shipments via Kolkata and Nhava Sheva seaports.

The move comes amid concerns over rising duty-free imports from Bangladesh under India’s zero-duty policy, as well as the indirect inflow of Chinese fabric routed through Bangladesh to bypass higher import duties.

Industry leaders believe the restriction will strengthen local manufacturing, reduce dependence on imported garments, and create space for Indian producers—especially MSMEs—to expand. It may also help redirect domestic cotton yarn supplies to meet local demand, particularly after Bangladesh’s earlier curbs on Indian cotton yarn exports.

However, the transition could temporarily disrupt supply chains for both Indian and global apparel brands. Retailers may face sourcing challenges, potentially leading to a modest 2-3% increase in prices of popular clothing items such as T-Shirts and Denim wear during the winter season.

Bangladesh currently accounts for about 35% of India’s garment imports, though overall imports contribute only 1-2% of the country’s apparel consumption. Industry bodies say the policy is a strategic response to trade imbalances and a step toward boosting self reliance, but emphasize the need for continued support in capacity building and ease of doing business to fully realize its benefits.

Shipments stranded in Strait of Hormuz as security risks halt vessel movements

Shipments transiting through the Strait of Hormuz remain stranded as escalating security concerns and recent attacks on commercial vessels continue to disrupt operations in the region.

According to the latest update by Maersk, affected cargo includes exports from South Africa and imports destined for the country. These shipments are currently in transhipment at Jebel Ali Terminal, awaiting onward connections to destinations outside the Strait of Hormuz.

A portion of the cargo is also loaded onboard the container vessel CMA CGM Antonio, which remains at anchor off the coast of Dubai within the Strait. The Vessel has been unable to proceed due to the ongoing closure of the waterway.

The disruption follows a sharp escalation in regional tensions with reports indicating that multiple container ships have been targeted in recent days. As a result, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz cannot be guaranteed, with shipping lines prioritising the safety of crew, vessels and cargo.

Under the current conditions, shipments are expected to remain delayed, either onboard the CMA CGM Antonio or at Jebel Ali Terminal, until the situation stabilises.

Alternative solutions, including land-bridge options via Oman and Saudi Arabia, have been explored. However, limited capacity and significantly higher costs have made these options difficult to implement on a larger scale.

The situation remains highly dynamic, with ongoing assessments being carried out by regional teams. Shipping stakeholders continue to monitor developments closely as they evaluate possible solutions for the safe onward movement of cargo.

Iran releases footage of seized container ships in Strait of Hormuz 

Iran has released video footage showing the seizure of the container vessel EPAMINONDAS in the Strait of Hormuz, following an incident that has further escalated tensions in the region.

PIL and PSA launch Singapore first joint land-sea green shipping service with DNV

Pacific International Lines (PIL) and PSA International have launched Singapore’s first joint land-sea green value-added service for cargo trans-shipped through the port of Singapore. DNV supports the initiative.

The service helps shippers and cargo owners reduce Scope 3 emissions. It does this through verified carbon reductions from lower-carbon fuels across shipping, port operations and landside logistics. Trials will start in May 2026.

///                   Air Cargo News            ///

Ethiopian Cargo Launches Hong Kong Service to Glasgow Prestwick Airport

Ethiopian Cargo has launched a new freight service connecting Hong Kong with Glasgow Prestwick Airport, strengthening cargo links between Asia and the United Kingdom.

The new route is expected to enhance air freight capacity for time-sensitive shipments, including e-commerce goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial cargo moving between the two markets. Glasgow Prestwick Airport said the addition of the service further reinforces its position as a key cargo gateway in the UK, offering efficient handling capabilities and strong landside connectivity.

Industry observers note that the Hong Kong connection provides businesses with improved access to one of Asia’s leading trade and logistics hubs while supporting import and export flows.

The service also reflects continued demand for diversified cargo routings as airlines and airports adapt to shifting global supply chain requirements. Officials expects the new operation to generate added throughput for the airport and create further opportunities for freight forwarders, handlers and regional businesses.

MSC Air Cargo targets APAC growth with Shanghai station

                                           Image: © MSC Air Cargo

Freighter carrier MSC Air Cargo has officially opened its Shanghai Pudong (PVG) station as part of its efforts to expand in the Asia Pacific region.

The carrier said that Shanghai Pudong International Airport serves as a critical gateway for international trade flows and its addition to the operational network strengthens the company’s ability to serve customers on key intercontinental corridors between Europe and Asia.

The decision to open a PVG station also follows MSC Air Cargo last year announcing a partnership with China-based parcels giant SF Express and with Shanghai Airport Authority Logistics Development Co. (AVINEX), aimed at supporting the development of Shanghai Pudong as a core gateway within MSC Air Cargo’s Asia-Pacific network.

The airline already has an established partnership with SF Express on the Asia-Europe trade, MSC Air Cargo said.

Earlier this year, the carrier also launched scheduled services on the Milan Malpensa–Shanghai Pudong route.

Jannie Davel, chief executive of MSC Air Cargo, said: “With the launch of our Shanghai gateway, we are
establishing a cornerstone of MSC Air Cargo’s Asia‐Pacific trade corridor.

“It reflects our long‐term commitment to the region and to working closely with local partners to build a sustainable, forward‐looking platform.”

MSC Air Cargo was launched in late 2022 and operates a growing fleet of Boeing 777-200 Freighters.

Earlier this year, the company took delivery of its third Italian-registered Boeing 777-200 freighter, which is being used to expand coverage in Italy to include Rome Fiumicino (FCO) as well as Milan Malpensa (MXP), connecting both gateways with Hong Kong (HKG), Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and the newly introduced Ezhou Huahu (EHU).

As well as the three 777-200Fs operated under the European AOC, Atlas Air operates four 777Fs for MSC Air Cargo under a long-term ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, insurance) agreement.

CharterSync tackles charter pricing visibility challenge

                                Image: © VrStudio/Shutterstock

CharterSync has updated its digital pricing platform to provide a clearer overview of the price customers will pay to charter an aircraft.

The tech firm said that its enhanced quote format addresses several “long-standing challenges” within the air cargo charter process, where the price initially quoted did not include all supplementary costs and resulted in prolonged back-and-forth communications to establish the total price.

A key advancement within the enhanced format is the inclusion of additional cost insights.

The new format simplifies how quotes are presented, giving users a more structured and transparent overview of available options, CharterSync said.

This will enable freight forwarders to assess and “compare charter solutions more efficiently and with greater confidence”.

“Our focus has always been on simplifying a complex and often fragmented process,” said Ed
Gillet, founder of CharterSync.

“With this enhanced quote format, we’re giving our users a clearer, more complete view of their options from the outset.

“It’s about reducing friction, improving transparency and ultimately helping forwarders move faster and with greater confidence.”

The company has been investing in its platform in recent months. In January, CharterSync deployed new artificial intelligence (AI) technology to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and speed of handling business from freight forwarders.

The AI module enables freight forwarders to transfer their request-for-quote details directly into the CharterSync platform and upload packing lists in Excel or PDF format.

The AI module extracts and populates its platform with essential data, including airport origin and destination, cargo dimensions and payloads, as well as critical special instructions such as temperature requirements, UN numbers and class numbers.

Etihad Cargo looks forward to expanded Africa network

                           Image: © Miguel Lagoa/Shutterstock.com

Etihad Cargo is hoping to capitalise on the “significant” expansion of passenger operations across Africa as part of the airline’s efforts to grow in “high-growth markets”.

Etihad Airways yesterday announced an expansion of its Africa network, adding new routes to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ghana, Nigeria and Zimbabwe from Abu Dhabi.

The expansion will start towards the end of this year and continue in the spring of 2027.

“The new services reflect investment in high-growth markets, supporting increasing connectivity across trade, cargo and mobility,” the airline said.

The carrier added that the strategy also aligned with growing economic ties between the UAE and Africa, with increasing trade, investment and commercial partnerships across sectors including energy, infrastructure, mining and logistics.

Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive of Etihad Airways, said: “Demand for air connectivity across key African markets is outpacing existing supply, particularly in cargo and trade-linked sectors.

“This expansion is a direct response to that structural opportunity.”

The airline’s new service from Abu Dhabi to Asmara, Eritrea, will operate four times per week when it launches on 7 November; the service to Accra will operate four times a week, launching on 17 March 2027; Kinshasa will launch three times per week from 18 March 2027; Lagos seven times per week from 18 March 2027 and Harare/Lubumbashi three times per week from 24 March 2027.

The carrier pointed out that the service would link in with its operations to China, which were recently expanded through a partnership with China Eastern.

Dnata to invest A$32m in Western Sydney facility

                                                 Image: © dnata

Cargo handler dnata is investing A$32m in a dedicated cargo facility at Western Sydney International (WSI) ahead of the airport’s opening later this year.

The airport will deliver the site as a cold shell, with dnata undertaking a full operational fit-out of the terminal, including critical infrastructure and the installation of a semi-motorised materials handling system.

The warehouse facility is located in the airport’s 24-hour cargo precinct and will measure 5,000 sq m with a further 4,000 sq m of surrounding land included.

“Approximately A$6m of the investment will be allocated to specialised equipment and technology to ensure scalable, efficient and future-ready cargo operations, including capabilities to support specialised cargo such as pharmaceuticals and other time- and temperature-sensitive shipments,” dnata said.

The facility will handle up to 60,000 tonnes of cargo annually and will initially create 50 roles with “further employment opportunities anticipated as volumes grow and operations expand”.

Dnata first revealed its interest in operating a facility at the airport in 2020.

Burt Sigsworth, managing director of dnata Airport Operations, Australia, said: “Our investment in Western Sydney International reflects strong confidence in the region’s long-term economic trajectory and the critical role airfreight plays in supporting Australian trade.

“By establishing a purpose-built cargo facility from day one, we are strengthening supply chain resilience, supporting local industry and creating skilled employment opportunities in one of the country’s fastest-growing economic corridors.”

Freighter operations are scheduled to commence in July 2026, ahead of the airport’s full passenger opening later this year.

The cargo precinct will be capable of servicing eight widebody aircraft at any one time and will open with capacity to handle at least 220,000 tonnes of freight a year.

WSI chief executive Simon Hickey added: “Like everything at WSI, the Cargo Precinct is built for growth, and while we’re excited to open stage one and launch operations by the end of July, it also has capacity to expand significantly over the years ahead, in line with market demands.”

Dnata currently has a presence at nine airports across Australia and provides cargo, ground handling, passenger services and inflight catering.

The company processes around 300,000 tonnes of cargo across its Australian network.

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.