Global boardrooms watch India, expectations high: DHL Express

The top management of DHL Express - including Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO) John Pearson, Asia-Pacific CEO Ken Lee, and Senior Vice-President for South Asia RS Subramanian - remains optimistic about easing tariff turbulence and India's growing prominence in logistics and manufacturing.

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They attribute this optimism to the country's ongoing infrastructure push and supportive policy initiatives. In an interview with Prachi Pisal, the trio says India features prominently in the global firms' expansion plans. Edited excerpts:

For your sector, how have you observed India changing over the years?

John Pearson:

I think India is one of the best places right now, as it has become more interested and capable of playing on the global stage in logistics and manufacturing. We've seen marked development in infrastructure, locations, and facilities.

The administration has done a great job through the National Logistics Policy (NLP). Naturally, businesses still consider staying in China, but many want a presence in India as well.

There have been some geopolitical developments favouring India, and of course, some that haven't. India is now featuring very heavily in companies' expansion plans and boardroom discussions. It needs to live up to those expectations, especially regarding infrastructure and the digital environment.

What's your view on the tariffs?

Pearson:

I really hope the tariffs get sorted out quickly, and I'm confident they will. India is among the last countries negotiating a deal - and that's neither inherently good nor bad.