As the logistics industry converges in Goa for the landmark 25th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI), APACE Digital Cargo had the privilege of speaking exclusively with Mr. Dushyant Mulani, Chairman, FFFAI.
In this special Silver Jubilee edition of the convention, Mr. Mulani shared his vision for India’s freight forwarding and logistics sector, the critical role of strategic partnerships, and how the industry is aligning with national goals like Viksit Bharat @2047. From geopolitical shifts and digital transformation to green logistics and youth empowerment, this insightful discussion explores the big ideas and bold moves shaping the future of logistics in India. Excerpts —
- This is the 25th Biennial Convention of FFFAI—an incredible milestone. What does this silver jubilee edition represent for the organization and the industry at large?
The 25th Silver Jubilee Biennial Convention is happening in Goa, a most lucrative destination from both tourism, trade and logistics industry’s point of view with two airports, port and transportation infrastructure. The world including our nation is currently witnessing a critical scenario due to drastically changing geo-political incidents which have direct impacts on the economy and international trade. However, our nation as well as the Exim trade is resilient and well equipped to handle such situations thanks to the solid fundamentals in terms of its economy, infrastructure and willingness of the Government/decision makers. As a nation, our country is on a path-breaking journey for growth, global outreach and its commitment towards safety and security of its citizens with sindoor on its forehead.
In view of the above backdrop, FFFAI’s Silver Jubilee Convention will be very exciting in shaping up the future course of actions by the Customs Brokers, Freight Forwarders and the entire Logistics Service Industry in the country. The interactions will be completely focused on the evolving scenario for the larger interest of the logistics industry stakeholders and the country’s economy.
With determination, resilience, and innovation, we are poised to become the third largest economy in the world. This economic leap is not accidental—it is a result of strategic planning and bold reforms.
- What is the central theme or focus of this year’s convention in Goa? What message are you hoping to send to the freight forwarding community and stakeholders?
As we proudly celebrate our 25th Biennial Convention from 29th to 31st May 2025 in the serene and spirited surroundings of Goa, we do more than commemorate a milestone—we reaffirm a shared national mission. This Silver Jubilee Convention, themed “Enhancing Strategic Partnerships: Unleashing Potential,” reflects our bold ambition to shape the future of India’s logistics ecosystem in line with the grand vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India is marching towards the ambitious target of becoming a $5 trillion economy. Logistics, trade facilitation, and efficient supply chain networks form the very foundation of this journey.
Our message to the CB/FF/LSP fraternity would be that the logistics sector is no longer a silent enabler; it is a strategic pillar of national development. Efficient logistics reduce costs, increase competitiveness, and expand market access—elements critical to realizing both our $5 trillion economy goal and our long-term aspiration of becoming a developed nation by 2047. And, FFFAI would be at the forefront to attain the set goal as far as the contribution from the logistics industry is concerned. As the frontline activists, which we proudly performed during the Covid pandemic, we are committed with our services earnestly required by the nation at any crisis period.
Apart from its operations in the logistics field, FFFAI is equally emphasizes on enhancing domain knowledge. From this perspective, FFFAI Convention Business Sessions are focused on thought-provoking topics both on day to day business activities and beyond business. Each session serves as a beacon of insight, helping industry professionals navigate shifting global dynamics, adopt transformative technologies, and align with national goals like Viksit Bharat. These conversations shape not only current practices but also inspire the visionaries of tomorrow.
There will be six business sessions in the 25th FFFAI Biennial Convention:
1.Vision 2047 – Unleashing India’s Potential towards Viksit Bharat
2.Opportunities in the Geo-Political Landscape & enhancing Strategic Partnerships
3.Infrastructure fueling India’s Logistics Growth
4.Importance of Digital Intelligence and Data Management
5.A New Era in Logistics, India and the World
6.Developing Resilience for Long Term Sustenance
Beyond Business Sessions To be addressed by:
- Lt Gen KJS Dhillon, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, VSM (Retd) and Mr Shiv Aroor, Managing Editor, NDTV. Insights from top retired officers of the Indian Army: As logistics starts from the Army, insights will be on how logistics, discipline, and national service are deeply intertwined.
- Mr. Jonty Rhodes, Cricketer, South Africa.
Three extraordinary sessions designed to go beyond business and touch the very core of leadership, courage, and life. In a first-of-its-kind experience, delegates will gain rare insights from top retired officers of the Indian Army, who will share their perspective on “The Soldier in Every Indian”—highlighting how logistics, discipline, and national service are deeply intertwined. Adding to this, a renowned corporate trainer and former Army Captain will decode the leadership mindset that drives transformation both on the battlefield and in boardrooms.
- Sustainability and green logistics are hot topics worldwide. Will environmental practices and compliance be part of the convention agenda?
FFFAI firmly believes in sustainable logistics and responsibilities of the industry stakeholders in this regard. The Green Supply Chain Management is the concept that involves applications of environmental issues along with the corporate social responsibility in each and every sector incorporated in the traditional supply chain management. Moreover, it is applicable in the real sense in every corporation of all sectors including logistics.
FFFAI is endeavouring to reduce the environmental impact of transportation, which will involve optimizing routes, using alternative fuels (like electric or hybrid vehicles), and consolidating shipments to reduce the number of deliveries.
We also encourage sustainable warehousing practice which includes implementing energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems, using automated storage and retrieval systems, and reducing waste in warehouse operations.
FFFAI recommends green packaging using recyclable, biodegradable, or reusable packaging materials to reduce waste and environmental harm.
Reverse logistics is another critical area to reduce carbon footprint and supply chain optimization working with suppliers to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce the environmental impact of raw materials and manufacturing.
Direct benefit of Green Logistics to the trade is substantial Cost savings. Optimized operations, reduced fuel consumption, and improved efficiency can lead to significant logistics cost reductions, which is a major pain area in India in competing with other advanced countries.
- How is the convention creating opportunities for young professionals and startups in the logistics and freight forwarding sector?
FFFAI is consistently working for wooing young and women entrepreneurs round the year through IIFF and FFFAI Women Wing. We are expecting a good number of delegates from the next generation, which would add value to this Convention similar to the previous Convention in respect of shaping this sunrise sector to a new high.
- How is FFFAI working with government bodies, customs, and port authorities to improve ease of doing business for freight forwarders?
The Government of India has laid a robust foundation through the National Logistics Policy (NLP) and PM Gati Shakti, aiming to reduce logistics costs to single digits and bring seamless integration across transport modes. With ₹2.4 lakh crore allocated in the Union Budget 2024–25 for infrastructure development, including highways, railways, and multimodal transport corridors, the scale and intent of this transformation are clear.
We are happy to note the recent policies are the reflection of the feedback from FFFAI given to the Government and regular interactions we do have with the different Ministries of the Government of India, various departments/agencies of those Ministries. We are working with the government and their departments collaboratively based on the feedback and recommendations from our 31 Members associations across the country.
