Assam's Vision for Enhanced Logistics and Trade Connectivity

Strengthening Assam's Role as a Trade Hub

Guwahati, Sept 24: During the 2nd CII North East Logistics Conclave, experts emphasized that Assam's goal of becoming a central industrial and trade hub for the Northeast hinges on its ability to efficiently transport goods both regionally and internationally.

The discussions highlighted the importance of integrating roads, railways, inland waterways, and land ports with warehousing and border facilities. This integration aims to ensure that investments in connectivity lead to reduced costs and more dependable cargo movement for businesses.

According to Industries and Commerce Minister Bimal Borah, logistics will play a crucial role in driving industrial growth as Assam seeks to attract significant investments. He noted that the state's geographical location and transport infrastructure provide a solid foundation for it to act as the Northeast's primary gateway and redistribution center. However, he acknowledged that the logistics capacity must adapt to the evolving cargo landscape and new trade opportunities.

Borah also advocated for an Act East framework to enhance trade relations with ASEAN nations, allowing Northeast businesses to engage more effectively in regional value chains. He stressed the necessity of a closer collaboration between the government and industry to achieve this goal.

Jayant Singh, Chairman of the Land Ports Authority of India, remarked that land ports should be viewed as integral components of a comprehensive supply chain rather than mere border crossing points. He suggested that linking these ports with road and rail systems, waterways, and warehouses could significantly decrease cargo dwell times and trade transaction expenses.

Singh pointed out the potential of the region's land ports, such as Dawki, Sutarkandi, Agartala, Srimantapur, Darranga, Mankachar, Moreh, and Sabroom, to establish new cross-border trade routes. He cautioned that merely improving physical infrastructure would not suffice; businesses also require coordinated border management, digital processes, testing and inspection facilities, warehousing, parking, and streamlined regulatory procedures to ensure predictable shipment times.

JB Ekka, Additional Chief Secretary for Industries and Commerce, emphasized that logistics planning must align with the evolving needs of industries and facilitate the movement of goods between producers and markets. He highlighted Assam's strategic position as a connector between the Northeast, neighboring countries, and broader markets, which could be enhanced through improved logistics capabilities.

K Sukumar, Chairman of the conclave and CEO of TVS Supply Chain Solution for India, the Middle East, and Africa, noted that CII's consultations across various states had identified challenges in connectivity, cargo movement, logistics infrastructure, and cross-border trade. He mentioned that the industry body is working to translate these insights into actionable policy recommendations.

Bhaskar Phukan, Chairman of CII Assam State Council and Managing Director of Numaligarh Refinery Ltd, expressed gratitude to the speakers and industry representatives for their valuable contributions to the discussions. He stated that the conclave successfully brought together government and industry to address the logistics and connectivity needs of the Northeast.

The discussions at the conclave underscored the need to shift focus towards optimizing existing infrastructure, enhancing regulatory coordination, and developing the necessary skills within the logistics sector. Approximately 300 participants attended the event, which also included an exhibition showcasing logistics companies operating in the Northeast.