The Department of Commerce (DoC) and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) convened two consultations to address packaging, logistics and shipping challenges linked to the situation in West Asia. One meeting was chaired by the Commerce Secretary and the other was co-chaired by the Secretary, MoPSW and the Commerce Secretary, with participation from senior officials, port authorities, shipping agencies, Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) and industry representatives. The second meeting was attended by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), enabling coordinated engagement with customs. The gatherings aimed to protect trade continuity and support the export ecosystem.

The DoC meeting examined disruptions to packaging materials and petrochemical inputs such as polymers and resins, warning of possible increases in availability constraints and costs that could affect multiple sectors. Industry highlighted pressure on micro, small and medium enterprises and sought assured access to critical inputs including liquefied natural gas and helium, and early GST refunds to improve liquidity. The Ministry urged time-bound assessments of packaging inputs, mapping of domestic production capacity and identification of import dependencies to inform interventions.

The co-chaired meeting addressed logistics and shipping operations, with customs officials outlining measures to streamline cargo clearance at ports. Discussions covered documentation, transit and back-to-town cargo, transmission of benefits by shipping lines, air freight costs, railway concessions and bunker fuel availability to bolster operational resilience. Stakeholders reported broadly smooth vessel availability, cargo handling and transshipment with no major constraints observed. Customs agreed to examine hazardous cargo destuffing cases to further simplify procedures.

The MoPSW directed ports and terminal operators to enhance transparency and efficiency by publishing concessions and waivers, reviewing bunker fuel supplies and expediting evacuation of stranded containers. Exporters were encouraged to report issues for prompt resolution and the Government reaffirmed engagement with industry to monitor developments. The coordinated approach across ministries aims to minimise disruptions and strengthen the resilience of India’s trade ecosystem. The DoC, MoPSW and CBIC will continue measures in consultation with ministries and stakeholders to ensure smooth logistics operations and safeguard national trade interests.