India’s emergence as a key player in international logistics is the result of long-term investment, global partnerships and strategic growth. As the country prepares to celebrate its Independence Day on 15 August, it is an ideal moment to reflect on India’s expanding role in global trade and to consider what this means for companies that rely on smooth and dependable cross-continental supply chains.
As India prepares to celebrate its Independence Day, it presents an ideal moment to reflect on how far the country has come not only politically, but also in terms of economic and logistical influence. Over recent decades, India has emerged as a key player in global trade, evolving into a logistics hub that connects Asia with Europe and other major markets around the world.
This growing position is the result of long-term infrastructure development, expanding port and airport capacity, and increasing collaboration with global trade partners. Ongoing investments in both ocean freight and air freight corridors are enabling faster transit times, greater connectivity, and more resilient India–Europe supply chains, positioning India more centrally than ever within the global logistics landscape.
India’s evolution into a cornerstone of global supply chains is no coincidence. It reflects years of targeted investment, an expanding manufacturing base, and strengthened global partnerships. One clear indicator of this progress is the growing trade between India and Europe. In the first half of 2025, bilateral trade between the European Union and India increased by over 11% compared to the same period last year, with machinery, chemicals, and transport equipment among the top traded goods. This trend highlights not only India’s export growth, but also the increasing interdependence between two major economic regions.
With improving logistics infrastructure and trade policies, India is becoming more than a supplier it is an essential partner in complex, cross-continental supply chains that require reliability, efficiency, and strategic coordination.
On 15 August, India celebrates its Independence Day with nationwide pride and unity. Just like our colleagues in India, people across the country take this day to pause, reflect, and spend time with family and community. As it is a national public holiday, all government offices, customs authorities, ports, and logistics providers are fully closed nationwide.
For companies managing import and export operations to and from India, it is important to plan ahead. Temporary delays in customs clearance, documentation, and local transport are common around this period, particularly in the days directly before and after the holiday. This year, Independence Day falls within a long weekend, which may cause additional impact on shipment schedules and response times. Factoring in this seasonal rhythm helps maintain smooth operations in international trade lanes.
We believe that successful supply chains are built on more than routes and rates. They are built on understanding, consistency, and trust across borders. As your India specialist in logistics, we support clients with the full scope of services needed to move goods between Europe and the Indian subcontinent. From our 18 strategically located offices across India, we coordinate logistics operations that go far beyond transport. Our Trade Lane Management approach combines local insight with global reach, offering solutions in air and ocean freight, customs clearance, industrial cargo handling, and more.
Are you looking for a logistics partner in importing or exporting products from the Netherlands to India or vice versa? Please reach out to our Trade Lane Management expert Karan Vij.
India’s journey from independence to global influence is not only a story of national progress, but also one of growing partnerships. The strengthening trade relationship between Europe and India reflects a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. In logistics, these same qualities drive the development of stronger, smarter, and more connected trade networks.
As India continues to expand its influence on the world stage, the potential for even closer collaboration with Europe grows. This is a moment to celebrate how far the journey has come and to look ahead at the next chapter of shared success in global supply chain management.
We wish our colleagues and the rest of India a joyful and inspiring Independence Day!