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 June 19,
2026
Today’s
Exchange Rates
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CURRENCY▲ |
PRICE |
CHANGE |
%CHANGE |
OPEN |
PREV.CLOSE |
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|
94.33 |
0.209999 |
0.222127 |
94.66 |
94.54 |
|
|
|
1.1475 |
-0.0026 |
0.226063 |
1.1501 |
1.1501 |
|
|
|
124.9154 |
1.920303 |
1.514009 |
126.039 |
126.8357 |
|
|
|
108.2744 |
1.418198 |
1.292884 |
109.059 |
109.6926 |
|
|
|
160.858 |
0.208008 |
0.129479 |
160.65 |
160.65 |
|
|
|
1.3244 |
-0.0049 |
0.368622 |
1.3293 |
1.3293 |
|
|
|
0.5867 |
-0.0033 |
0.559314 |
0.5884 |
0.59 |
|
/// Sea Cargo News ///
India is set to benefit significantly from the impending US-Iran peace agreement, expected to be formally signed in Switzerland on Friday, as the deal could pave the way for the lifting of sanctions on Iran and revive New Delhi’s strategic involvement in the Chabahar Port project.
The agreement is anticipated to bring
immediate relief to India’s energy sector by ensuring smoother oil and gas
supplies from the Middle East through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime
trade route.
More importantly, it could reopen
opportunities for India to resume full-scale operations and investments at
Iran’s strategically located Chabahar Port. India’s participation in the
Chabahar project was severely impacted after the United States re-imposed
sanctions on the port on September 29, 2025.
In response, India submitted a plan detailing
how it would wind down operations at Chabahar, including activities at the
Shahid Beheshti Terminal. Based on these assurances, the US Treasury
Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) granted a six month
sanctions exemption, which expired on April 26, 2026.
Anticipating potential sanctions, India had
transferred its entire committed investment-estimated at around USD 120
Million-more than a year before restrictions were introduced. The funds were
earmarked for the development of Chabahar Port, a project viewed as crucial to
India’s regional connectivity strategy.
Following the sanctions, India Ports Global
Ltd, the state owned company responsible for developing and operating the port,
faced significant operational challenges. Government appointed directors
resigned from the company’s board, while its official website was taken offline
to shield stakeholders from potential sanctions-related exposure.
The situation worsened in January 2026 when
US President Donald Trump announced that countries conducting business with
Iran could face a 25% tariff on all trade with the USA, further complicating
India’s engagement with the Persian Gulf nation.
Sanctions also created barriers to
repatriating funds generated from Port operations and posed regulatory hurdles
for any potential divestment from the project. Such a move would have required
approvals from the Reserve Bank of India and the Department of Investment and
Public Asset Management.
Despite these challenges, Indian officials
maintained that Chabahar’s value extended far beyond financial returns. “Money
was not the issue; it is a strategic location for India”, an official familiar
with the matter said.
In March 2024, Indian and Iran signed a
landmark 10 year agreement granting India operational rights over the Shahid
Beheshti Terminal, cementing New Delhi’s long-term commit-ment to the project.
Situated in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchistan
province on the country’s southeastern coast, Chabahar Port provides India with
direct access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. The port is
also a key component of the International North-South Transport Corridor
(INSTC), a 7,200 KM multimodal network connecting India with Iran, Afghanistan,
Azerbaijan, Russia-Central Asia and Europe through sea, rail & road links.
With the prospect of sanctions relief
following the US-Iran peace deal, India could regain momentum in developing
Chabahar as a major regional trade and connectivity hub, strengthening its
strategic footprint across Central Asia and beyond.
Shipping Giants Eye
Opportunities in Ennore Port Expansion Project
Ennore Port, officially known as Kamarajar Port, is drawing significant interest from leading global shipping lines and terminal operators as plans progress for the development of a second container terminal.
The proposed expansion is expected to
strengthen the port’s role as a major gateway for containerized trade on
India’s east coast and enhance its capacity to handle growing cargo volumes.
The project aims to address rising demand for
container handling infrastructure in the region by adding modern facilities
capable of accommodating larger vessels and increasing throughput. Industry
participants view the expansion as a strategic opportunity to improve supply
chain efficiency and support the continued growth of India’s international
trade.
Several major shipping carriers are
reportedly evaluating opportunities associated with the new terminal,
reflecting confidence in the long term potential of the port and the broader
Indian maritime sector. Increase capacity at Ennore is expected to attract
additional shipping services, improve connectivity with global trade routes and
provide exporters and importers with greater logistics flexibility.
The proposed terminal forms part of wider
efforts to expand port infrastructure and strengthen maritime logistics
capabilities. Enhanced container handling facilities, improved operational
efficiency and better multimodal connectivity are expected to support cargo
growth from key industries including manufacturing, automotive, engineering
goods and consumer products.
Industry observers note that the development
could help reduce congestion at existing ports while creating additional
capacity to accommodate future trade expansion. The project is also expected to
generate economic benefits through increased investment, job creating and
stronger integration of regional supply chains.
As India continues to invest in port
modernisation and logistics infrastructure, the Ennore expansion is seen as an
important step toward improving the country’s competitiveness in global trade.
The strong interest from international shipping companies highlights the
growing importance of Indian ports in supporting regional and global supply
chain networks.
Chennai Port Launches
Cargo Incentive Scheme with Up to 80% Wharfage Concessions
The Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) has introduced the Non-Containerized Cargo Incentive Scheme (NCCS) 2026-27, offering wharfage concessions of up to 80 per cent and loyalty bonuses of up to 10 per cent to eligible customers, as part of efforts to boost cargo volumes and strengthen partnerships with trade and industry.
According to an official release, the scheme
covers Liquid Bulk cargo (excluding POL Crude and POL Products), Dry Bulk and
Break Bulk cargo, including both coastal and EXIM cargo handled through
port-operated berths.
The initiative is designed to attract
additional cargo traffic, reward customer loyalty and encourage long-term
business commitments.
Existing customers will be eligible for
loyalty incentives, while new customers can benefit from substantial
concessions linked to incremental cargo volumes routed through the port.
ChPA said the scheme aims to increase cargo
throughput, enhance ease of doing business and further consolidate Chennai
Port’s position as a preferred gateway for non-contain-rised cargo on India’s
East Coast.
The Port Authority has also invited the trade
community to partner in its growth plans through long-term cargo commitments.
It expressed willingness to enter into mutually beneficial Memorandums of
Understanding (MoUs0 with interested trade partners to facilitate cargo growth
and foster enduring business relationships.
With incentives of up to 80% on eligible
incremental cargo volumes, loyalty benefits and opportunities for strategic
partnerships, ChPA said the NCCS 2026-27 marks a significant step in its next
phase of expansion and customer engagement.
Modi, Trump Meet at G7
to Revive Ties, Advance Trade Deal and Address Maritime Security Concerns
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are set to hold wide-ranging bilateral talks on Wednesday on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, with a focus on advancing a proposed trade agreement and strengthening cooperation in defence, energy and critical minerals.
The meeting, their first in-person
interaction in 16 months since talks at the White House in February 2025, comes
amid efforts by both nations to rebuild ties following a period of diplomatic
strain.
The leaders briefly interacted on Tuesday
during a gathering of G7 leaders, setting the stage for discussions on key
bilateral and global issues.
Relations between India and the US had faced
challenges in recent months due to Washington’s imposition of higher tariffs on
Indian goods, changes to immigration policies, increased H-1B visa fees and differences over
President Trump’s repeated claims that the US played a role in ending last
year’s India-Pakistan military tensions. New has consistently maintained that
the cessation of hostilities resulted solely from direct talks between India
and Pakistan.
Tensions escalated further last week after
three Indian sailors were killed when US military forces struck three merchant
vessels off the coast of Oman, alleging violations of a blockade on Iranian
ports. India strongly protested the incident, summoning the US charge
d’affaires and describing the attacks on commercial ships carrying Indian crew
members as unacceptable.
Addressing a G7 outreach session on Tuesday,
PM Modi stressed the importance of ensuring secure maritime routes and
safeguarding seafarers operating across global shipping lanes.
The Modi-Trump meeting is expected to review
full spectrum of bilateral relations, including ongoing negotiations for a
trade pact that could pave the way for a broader comprehensive economic
agreement. The two leaders are also likely to discuss energy security,
developments in West Asia, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and other pressing
geopolitical issues.
PM Mode arrived in France after concluding a
two-day visit to Slovakia. India is participating in the G7 summit as a guest
nation alongside the world’s leading economies.
ONE Launches New JTI
Service to Strengthen Asia–Indian Subcontinent Connectivity
Ocean Network Express (ONE) has introduced its new Japan–Thailand–Vietnam–Indian Subcontinent (JTI) service, offering shippers a faster and more reliable logistics solution across key Asian markets.
The integrated service is designed to enhance
connectivity between Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Southeast Asia, and the Indian
subcontinent while improving overall supply chain efficiency.
The JTI service consolidates three existing
services—TIP, JT1, and JV2—into a single comprehensive loop, providing
customers with expanded port coverage, streamlined cargo flows, and improved
schedule reliability.
The service forms part of ONE’s broader East
Asia–Japan network enhancement strategy aimed at strengthening regional trade
links and optimizing vessel deployment.
The service rotation includes Tokyo –
Yokohama – Shimizu – Nagoya – Osaka – Kobe – Cai Mep – Laem Chabang – Singapore
– Port Klang – Nhava Sheva – Pipavav – Karachi – Bin Qasim – Colombo – Laem
Chabang – Cai Mep and back to Tokyo, creating a seamless connection between
major manufacturing and consumption hubs across Asia.
By integrating multiple trade corridors into
a single service loop, ONE aims to provide greater network efficiency, enhanced
transit reliability and more flexible shipping options for customers moving
cargo across Asia and the Indian subcontinent.
UAE Charts
Multi-Billion-Dollar Strategy to Eliminate Dependence on Strait of Hormuz
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled an ambitious long-term strategy aimed at eliminating its dependence on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical maritime trade routes, amid ongoing regional security concerns.
Speaking in an interview, UAE Minister of
Foreign Trade, Thani Al Zeyoudi, said the country is moving towards achieving
"zero Hormuz dependency" regardless of whether the strategic waterway
fully reopens following the interim peace agreement between the United States
and Iran.
The plan centers on a major expansion of the
UAE's eastern coast infrastructure, including the ports of Fujairah, Khor
Fakkan and Dibba, all located outside the Strait of Hormuz on the Gulf of
Oman. The UAE also intends to develop at least one additional harbour
along the eastern coastline.
To support the initiative, the country plans
significant investments in oil pipelines, railways and road networks connecting
eastern ports with key energy production and industrial facilities.
Following the announcements of a second crude
oil pipeline to Fujairah in May, authorities are also exploring the
construction of a third petroleum pipeline and alternative export routes for
petrochemicals, LNG and other energy products.
The move comes after the effective closure of
the Strait of Hormuz during recent hostilities involving Iran, the US and
Israel, disrupting global energy and commodity flows. Prior to the conflict,
around 20% of the world’s crude oil and LNG shipments transited through the
waterway.
The UAE has managed to partially mitigate the
disruption through its existing 1.5 million barrels per day pipeline linking
inland oil fields to Fujairah, while increasing cargo movements through Khor
Fakkan. However, officials acknowledge that diverting all trade away from Gulf
Ports such as Jebel Ali Port and Khalifa Port will be challenging and costly.
Despite pursuing alternative logistics
corridors, the UAE continues to advocate for the reopening of the Strait of
Hormuz, emphasizing that uninterrupted navigation through the waterway remains
essential for regional stability, global trade and energy security. The
government has also opposed any efforts by Iran to impose navigation fees on
vessels using the strait once normal operations resume.
The proposed infrastructure program is
expected to require investments worth several billion dollars and reflects the
UAE’s broader strategy to strengthen supply chain resilience and safe guard its
position as a global trade and logistics hub.
/// Air Cargo News ///
Blue Dart Express Limited has marked 30 years of aviation operations, a milestone that underscores its position as a leading player in India's time-definite express logistics sector. The achievement highlights the company's long-standing commitment to providing fast, reliable and seamless air express services across the country.
Since
launching its aviation operations in 1996, Blue Dart has built a robust air
cargo network that has become a cornerstone of its integrated logistics
infrastructure.
The
dedicated air express capability has enabled the company to support critical
industries such as life sciences, banking and financial services,
manufacturing, automobiles, e-commerce, and small and medium enterprises
(SMEs), while enhancing supply chain resilience nationwide.
As it enters fourth decade of aviation operations, Blue Dart plans to further strengthen network resilience, improve operational efficiency, leverage automation and technology and contribute to the continued growth of India’s logistics and air cargo ecosystem.
First Cargo Flight
Marks Start of Freight Services at Noida International Airport
Noida International Airport has officially commenced cargo operations with the arrival of its first dedicated freight flight, marking a significant milestone in the development of one of India’s newest aviation and logistics hubs.
The
inaugural cargo movement signals the airport’s readiness to support growing air
freight demand and strengthen supply chain connectivity across northern India.
The
launch of freight services is expected to enhance the region’s logistics
capabilities by providing exporters, importers, freight forwarders, and
e-commerce companies with an additional gateway for domestic and international
cargo movements.
Strategically
located in the National Capital Region, the airport is positioned to serve
major manufacturing, industrial, and consumption centres across northern India.
Blue Dart Aviation to Expand Cargo Network with New Hubs in Pune, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Kochi and Coimbatore
Blue Dart Aviation has unveiled plans to expand its dedicated air cargo network by launching operations in Pune, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Kochi and Coimbatore over the next five years, targeting a daily cargo throughput of around 100 tonnes from the new locations.
The
expansion is aimed at capturing growing manufacturing, e-commerce and
industrial activity beyond India's major metropolitan markets.
The
company is also sharpening its focus on high-value and time-sensitive cargo
segments, including pharmaceuticals, life sciences products, gold, silver and
other specialized shipments, to enhance profitability and strengthen its
position in premium logistics services.
The
expansion aligns with the increasing growth of manufacturing clusters supported
by India's Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes and is expected to
diversify Blue Dart's revenue base.
However,
the company will continue to navigate competitive pressures from passenger
airlines offering belly cargo capacity, as well as fluctuations in aviation
fuel costs that can impact operating margins.
The
new strategy underscores Blue Dart Aviation’s commitment to strengthening its
domestic cargo network while capitalizing on emerging opportunities in high
growth industrial centres across India.
Challenge Group
Introduces Dedicated Freight Operations to Mumbai and Shanghai
Challenge Group has expanded its global air cargo network with the launch of dedicated freight services to Mumbai and Shanghai, reinforcing its presence in two of Asia’s most important trade and logistics markets.
The
new routes are designed to provide customers with enhanced connectivity,
greater capacity, and more efficient transportation options for international
cargo movements.
The
introduction of direct cargo operations reflects the company’s strategy of
strengthening links between major manufacturing, consumer, and distribution
centers worldwide.
Mumbai
serves as a key gateway for India’s export-driven industries, while Shanghai
remains one of the world’s busiest cargo hubs, handling substantial volumes of
electronics, industrial goods, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce shipments.
Hong Kong Air
Cargo Partners With Aeroprime to Expand Presence in India
Hong Kong Air Cargo has appointed Aeroprime Group as its Cargo General Sales and Services Agent (GSSA) for Delhi, marking a strategic step in the airline’s efforts to strengthen its footprint in India’s rapidly growing air freight market.
The
partnership is designed to enhance cargo connectivity between India, Hong Kong,
and key global destinations while supporting the rising demand for
time-sensitive and high-value shipments.
Under
the agreement, Aeroprime will oversee cargo sales, marketing, customer
engagement, and business development activities for Hong Kong Air Cargo in
Delhi. The collaboration is expected to improve market access for Indian
exporters and freight forwarders by leveraging Hong Kong’s position as one of
the world’s leading international air cargo hubs.
India
continues to emerge as a major source market for air cargo, driven by growing
exports of electronics, pharmaceuticals, automotive components, fashion
products, perishables, and e-commerce shipments.
By
combining Hong Kong Air Cargo’s network reach with Aeroprime’s established presence in the India logistics
sector, the partners aim to deliver more efficient and reliable cargo solutions
to customers.
The
appointment reflects Hong Kong Air Cargo broader strategy of expanding its
presence in key Asian markets and strengthening trade corridors that support
global supply chains. Aeroprime, which already represents several international
airlines in India, is expected to play a central role in driving cargo growth
and deepening customer engagement in the region.
Industry
observers note that the partnership comes at a time when trade flows between
India and East Asia are increasing, creating new opportunities for airlines and
logistics providers to expand capacity and improve service offerings.
The
collaboration is expected to support greater cargo volumes while providing
enhanced connectivity for Indian businesses seeking access to international
markets.
Oman Air Cargo
Enhances Regional Connectivity With Muscat–Dubai RFS
Oman Air Cargo has launched a new Road Feeder Service (RFS) connecting Muscat and Dubai, strengthening regional cargo connectivity and providing customers with greater flexibility in moving freight across the Gulf region.
The
service is designed to complement the airline’s air cargo network by offering
seamless surface transportation between two of the Middle East’s key logistics
hubs.
The
Muscat–Dubai RFS will enable the efficient movement of cargo between the
airline’s operations in Oman and the extensive logistics ecosystem of Dubai.
By
integrating road and air transport services, Oman Air Cargo aims to provide
faster transit options, improved shipment visibility, and enhanced access to
international markets for exporters, importers, and freight forwarders.
Road
feeder services have become an increasingly important component of modern air
cargo logistics, allowing airlines to extend network reach beyond airports and
optimize capacity utilization. The new connection is expected to support a wide
range of cargo segments, including e-commerce shipments, pharmaceuticals,
perishables, industrial goods and time-sensitive freight.
The
initiative reflects Oman Air Cargo’s broader strategy of strengthening
multimodal logistics capabilities and expanding its regional footprint.
Enhanced connectivity between Muscat and Dubai is expected to improve supply
chain efficiency while creating additional routing options for customers moving
cargo within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and beyond.
With
the launch of the new RGS, Oman Air Cargo continues to invest in network
development and customer-focused logistics solutions. The service is expected
to strengthen the airline’s competitive position in the regional cargo market
while supporting increasing demand for integrated freight transport-ation
services.
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.
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