Will India's Express Logistics Sector Really Double to $18 Billion by FY30?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The express logistics sector is set to double by FY30.
- It currently supports millions of jobs and contributes significantly to GST revenues.
- Growth is driven by e-commerce and the demand for Indian products.
- Digitization and infrastructure development are key to future expansion.
- The sector played a crucial role during the pandemic.
New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) The express logistics sector in India is anticipated to reach $18-$22 billion by FY30, effectively doubling its current size, according to a recent report released on Wednesday.
This sector has expanded from $3 billion in FY17 to $9 billion in FY25, achieving a compound annual growth rate of 12 to 15 percent. By FY25, the express logistics industry will support between 2.8 to 3 million jobs and contribute approximately $1 to $1.5 billion to GST revenues, along with $650 million to customs revenues, as detailed in the report from the Express Industry Council of India (EICI).
The report indicates that the sector will serve as a crucial enabler for e-commerce, MSMEs, and cross-border trade, having evolved from merely a logistics facilitator to an essential service provider.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the sector played a vital role by supporting the largest vaccination drive and ensuring the timely delivery of critical goods. Post-pandemic growth is being spurred by factors such as increased internet and smartphone usage, a surge in e-commerce, the enhancement of MSME output, and significant infrastructure development in tier 2 and 3 cities, the report states.
“Improving operational efficiency through digitisation and automation, while seeking growth opportunities like establishing India as a trans-shipment hub, will further propel the sector,” said Girish Nair from KPMG in India.
Domestic express logistics constitutes about 70 percent of the total market, valued between $6.3 to $6.5 billion, with surface express making the largest contribution. The international express segment, accounting for around 30 percent, managed 19.5 million shipments weighing approximately 152,300 tons in FY24, showing an average growth rate of 18 percent from FY21 to FY24.
This growth is driven by the rising global demand for 'Made in India' products, which include handicrafts, ethnic wear, home furnishings, auto components, and other manufactured goods.