India has over the years displayed a steady growth in its reefer trade, thanks to an expanded product base and improvements in transportation infrastructure. Indian imports of refrigerated cargo in 2016 grew by 19%, while the export of vegetables alone grew by 60% last year. Pharma exports have also risen consistently over the years. This growth is an indication of both the progress and potential India has in reefer trade; that said, there is still a long way to go.
Reefer consignments, unlike standard container shipments are extremely complicated and are far more skill and knowledge-intensive. It is essential that a strong awareness encompasses such crucial aspects as the specific atmospheric and environmental controls required for refrigerated containers, and the correct loading procedures. A holistic and inclusive approach towards development of the cold chain and reefer trade for India is extremely important. The National Centre for Cold Chain Development has been making progress and is contributing significantly in this direction through initiatives such as skill building workshops, industry forums, the introduction of updated guidelines and, most importantly,by emerging as aleading and effective industry think tank.
All constituents in the supply chain – right from the farmer or producer to the transporter, truck driver, warehouse provider, reefer services providers and everyone in between- have an equal responsibility to help improve this process. At APM Terminals Inland Services, we have been constantly working to improve our reefer management services, where global standards of customer-centric solutions are based upon a thorough understanding of the business environment, the customer’s supply chain, and our own technical expertise. This is an ongoing challenge.
Advancements that can enable Indian farmers to deliver fresh alphonso mangoes too far off regions such as Europe, skill sets that ensure a shipment of grapes is properly loaded and reaches its destination in the required condition, technology to ensure visibility of reefer container temperature and atmosphere throughout the trip are just some examples of where a joint effort by all stakeholders together can ensure success in the refrigerated supply chain.
AUTHORS CREDIT & PHOTOGRAPH
Ajit Venkataraman
MD
APM Terminals India Pvt Ltd
