DIVERSIFICATION IS THE WAY FORWARD

An interview with Chaitaly Mehta, Director, EKF Global Logistics

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Incorporated in 1977, EKF Global Logistics, a Mumbai-based, family-owned logistics company, has nearly five decades of experience in freight forwarding, customs clearance, and end-to-end supply chain solutions globally.

In an interview, Chaitaly Mehta, Director, EKF Global Logistics, discussed how consolidation through mergers and acquisitions is driving efficiencies across shipping and logistics.

Having spent nearly three decades in logistics, how have you seen the industry evolve?

The industry is getting the recognition it deserves. Earlier, logistics was often treated as an outsider, but today we are being invited to sit at the decision-making table. Industry associations are increasingly being consulted as think tanks and problem-solvers, which was rare in the past.

On the positive side, digitisation has transformed the sector. India has made significant strides in electronic processes, customs clearances, and stakeholder engagement. Contrary to popular perception, many processes in India work remarkably well compared to several international markets. We have also witnessed stronger collaboration between industry players, customs authorities, and government agencies.

And COVID-19 became a turning point for our industry. It was a wake-up call for the world, much like a person discovering an entirely new part of a city they had never explored before.

People now recognise our importance. They understand that logistics moves everything—from vaccines and medicines to watches, shoes, electronics, and daily essentials. Logistics is embedded in every aspect of modern life. It is no longer an invisible network operating in the background.