GMR Airports inks partnership with Aramex to boost India’s Express & Freight infrastructure
Aramex has entered into MOU with GMR Airports Limited (GAL) to enhance its logistics operations at the airports operated by the Indian airport operator. The partnership aims to improve the handling of international shipments, increase import and export activities and provide access to international markets for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and other businesses.
The deal will outline a framework to explore the enhancement of Aramex’s operational infrastructure at GMR operated express cargo terminals in India. Some of the proposed improvements include a dedicated operations area, special truck loading docks and cargo screening systems, all subject to the terms and conditions of a definitive agreement between the two parties.
It is also expected that the planned infrastructure will help develop integrated customs clearance capability for a number of international products. The initiative aims to enable the efficient movement of shipments through major international gateways by streamlining cargo processing and clearance procedures.
Signing of agreement in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: Aramex continues to invest in its logistics infrastructure and grow its cross-border trade capabilities in India. It has signed a MoU at GMR Hyderabad Air Cargo (GHAC) in Hyderabad.
Under the proposed arrangement, GAL will maintain the identified infrastructure at its express cargo terminal in accordance with terms and conditions of the definitive agreement. The two companies are also discussing a potential warehousing facility adjacent to the express cargo terminal, with access exclusively via an airside corridor.
GAL can also assist in facilitating introductions and discussions with the relevant authorities and where appropriate provide technical expertise and operational knowledge to support the initiative.
The proposed improvements are aimed at providing businesses with more efficient international logistics services and also helps in movement of goods between India and abroad market. The proposed development has a special focus on the region of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
Both companies aim to build the planned infrastructure by March 2027. The partners will work together on discussions and will look at opportunities for investment, project timelines and other implementation details.
Aramex highlights India’s role in its global trade strategy
Amadou Diallo, Group CEO of Aramex, said the company’s strategy in India extends beyond geographical expansion and focuses on developing the infrastructure and operational capabilities needed to support the country’s growing role in international commerce.
“Our focus on India goes beyond expanding our footprint; it is about building the capabilities and infrastructure needed to support the country’s next phase of growth in global trade,” Diallo said.
He added that Aramex intends to strengthen its network, invest in local capabilities and work with strategic partners to establish more efficient channels for businesses seeking access to international markets.
According to Diallo, the collaboration with GMR Airports Limited reflects Aramex’s long-term commitment to India and is expected to reinforce its ability to deliver efficient logistics solutions to businesses throughout the country.
Focus on improving express and freight services
“This partnership will help us to boost our logistics capabilities across GAL operated airports,” said Veena Bhogaonkar, Managing Director, Aramex India.
She said the purpose of upgrading infrastructure and operational resources at express cargo terminals is to provide businesses, including MSMEs, with more efficient and seamless express and freight services to cater to their domestic and international trade needs.
The initiative is intended to meet the needs of companies seeking to improve the reliability and efficiency of their shipping operations as they expand into international markets.
Abbas Panju, Regional CEO of Aramex for the GCC and Indian Subcontinent, also stressed the strategic importance of India for the company and the opportunities coming from the country’s growing international trade activity.
“This collaboration will enable Aramex to leverage GAL’s key international gateways to expand its logistics capabilities and help businesses to establish stronger connections with global markets,” he said.
Further development plans are yet to be discussed
In addition to the infrastructure enhancements already identified, Aramex and GMR Airports will further review potential investments, implementation timelines and other aspects of the proposed development.
Further details will be worked out jointly as discussions progress and the companies work toward the definitive agreement.
If implemented as planned, the initiative would give Aramex a greater operational presence at GMR-operated airports, increase the infrastructure available for express and freight shipments and support businesses seeking to have more efficient cross-border logistics connections between India and international markets, especially the GCC region.
