- Mr. Vaibhav Vohra, Managing Director, Continental Carriers
1. Please share an overview of your company's journey and business landscape in India.
Founded in 1957 by Mr. TN Vohra, Continental Carriers has established a six-decade legacy in India's supply chain industry. As pioneers in freight forwarding, we progressed from providing early cargo handling services at Delhi Airport to launching India's first private Greenfield Air Freight Station in 2024. With offices across major locations and 350+ employees, we serve over 5,000 exporters and importers nationwide. Our expertise spans automotive logistics, temperature-controlled pharmaceutical solutions, aerospace component handling, and our innovative Air Freight Station concept—bringing customs authorities, airlines, and stakeholders together in an off-airport facility to expedite clearances and aircraft loading. We are very well known for maintaining stringent compliance with customs and regulatory requirements, a capability that has proven invaluable in today's complex geopolitical landscape.
In past decade, we have been transformed from a traditional logistics provider to a tech-enabled supply chain solutions provider through strategic investments in digital technologies and subject-matter expertise, expanded reach, and specialized solutions for diverse industries. Our digital transformation showcases our commitment to innovation, with integrated platforms providing end-to-end supply chain visibility. We've implemented AI-based OCR technology that has reduced documentation processing time by up to 60% and are exploring AI/ML for predictive analytics beyond automation.
Today's Indian business landscape is influenced by shifting global trade dynamics, infrastructure development, and government policies. World merchandise trade volume is projected to grow 3.3% in 2025. India continues to strengthen exports in engineering goods, electronics, and pharmaceuticals—a trend likely to continue. Expected tariffs on Chinese imports to the US may reshape trade routes, while government infrastructure initiatives will further boost trade.
Continental Carriers is strategically positioned to leverage these opportunities, actively participating in infrastructure programs and capitalizing on cross-border trade developments. The rising demand for integrated supply chain solutions allows us to showcase our technological capabilities and industry expertise as we continue adapting to evolving needs, combining six decades of experience with cutting-edge technology.
2. As a business leader, how do you see the emerging opportunities and potential growth areas for your company or sector in India?
Drawing from our extensive experience and partnerships with global firms like La Poste, Continental Carriers is uniquely positioned to capitalize on India's evolving supply chain landscape. As global markets shift and business models advance, numerous opportunities are emerging across the sector. For instance, the contract logistics sector shows remarkable potential, projected to reach $8.2 billion by 2026 with an 11.7% CAGR. We're focused on upscaling our capabilities to meet new demands as 4PL service providers. Government initiatives like Free Trade Warehousing Zones (FTWZ) are revolutionizing supply chains by offering duty-free storage and value addition capabilities, enhancing ease of doing business for export-oriented companies that rely on imported raw materials.
Recent trade agreements are also creating new opportunities. The India-UAE CEPA aims to boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2027, while the India-Australia ECTA has opened new avenues across various sectors. The adoption of ‘China Plus One’ strategy by many companies has accelerated manufacturing diversification, with India emerging as a preferred destination due to competitive advantages in labour costs and market size. Apple's manufacturing shift to India through partners like Foxconn and Wistron exemplifies this trend, with production value expected to reach $40 billion by 2026. In coordination with global partners and industry associations, we're helping these OEMs establish efficient supply chains in India.
We see immense potential in leveraging digital platforms, AI, and data-driven solutions to reimagine supply chain management with higher productivity and efficiencies. Our strategic focus combines specialized warehousing capabilities, sector-specific solutions, and technology-driven optimization. Government initiatives like 'Make in India,' the National Logistics Policy, and PM Gati Shakti—coupled with the target to reduce logistics costs from 14% to (8)% of GDP by 2030—create a fertile ecosystem for innovative services.
Through integrated technology platforms, sustainable delivery mechanisms, and value-added services, we're positioned to address the complex needs of modern businesses in this rapidly evolving landscape.
3. Looking ahead, how do you see innovation and sustainable business practices shaping your company's growth strategy?
At Continental Carriers, innovation and sustainability are not just buzzwords but fundamental principles guiding our growth strategy. We see sustainability not only in terms of carbon footprints but also from a stakeholder point of view which involves employee satisfaction, vendor management and customer relationships. We are committed to reducing our carbon impact through investments in digitalizing the operations and going paperless, we are using advanced technologies like AI enabled OCR to reduce the time and associated resources and at the same time we are partnering with transporters for EVs. Our approach integrates cutting-edge technological innovations with a deep commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring that we contribute positively to both business performance and environmental conservation. On the other front, we are a promoter of inclusiveness in terms of policies, processes and improvements; which helps us in formulating the best for all stakeholders.
A significant enhancement to our sustainability efforts will be the implementation of CO2 tracking systems. These systems will allow us to monitor and measure carbon emissions across our operations, providing real-time visibility into the carbon footprint of different shipping routes and transport methods. This capability will enable data-driven decisions to optimize routes for lower emissions while helping clients track and report their scope 3 emissions. Such tracking systems will also support compliance with emerging carbon reporting regulations and allow for setting and monitoring specific emission reduction targets.
We have also established strategic partnerships focused on sustainable transportation solutions, including collaborations with transport providers to incorporate electric vehicles into their operations. Our approach to sustainability is further strengthened by the commitment to inclusive policy development that considers all stakeholders, emphasizing employee satisfaction, effective vendor management, and enhanced customer relationships through sustainable practices.
By integrating sustainable practices alongside the existing strategic initiatives, Continental Carriers will strengthen their position as a forward-thinking supply chain service provider that helps clients meet their own sustainability goals while maintaining operational excellence. This comprehensive approach to innovation and sustainability demonstrates their commitment to creating long-term value while minimizing environmental impact.
4. With an increasing emphasis on CSR, how do you integrate your CSR goals with your business strategy?
Our CSR strategy is intrinsically woven into our principles, reflecting our belief that corporate success is measured not just by financial metrics but by social impact. We have been involved in skill development programs and have also collaborated with institutes for case studies and learning opportunities. Our business objectives of leading the supply chain are not possible if we don’t take care of social welfare goals, we create shared value that extends beyond our immediate operational boundaries.
5. How has IFCCI and its business network added value to your operations in India?
Our relationship with IFCCI and France builds upon our rich history of international collaborations, including our previous joint venture with Geopost, France, the private investment arm of La Poste. This experience, combined with our current global partnerships and our role in facilitating Indo-French business relations, has strengthened our position as a key player in international supply chain industry.
The chamber has been instrumental in fostering cross-cultural relationship building, offering networking opportunities, acquiring new practices, growing business, and supporting our international partnership strategies. We have been able to enhance our presence in the European market by providing more customized solutions which are in turn a result of better cultural understanding. In particular the sub-committee on ‘Logistics and Supply Chain’, has helped us in raising industry concerns in both Indian and French forums of policy makers. The comprehensive approach of IFCCI resonates well with Continental Carriers' commitment to being a forward-thinking, responsible, and technologically advanced solutions provider in the dynamic Indian market.