Innovation Booms For India, Goyal Meets Italian CEO's, Strengthens Global Supply Chains

As part of India’s strategic push to strengthen its global supply chain role, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with top Italian business leaders during his official two-day visit to Italy, following his engagements in France. The discussions emphasized SCM (supply chain management) collaboration, technology exchange, and manufacturing growth in alignment with India's rising position in the future of supply chain management. Goyal engaged in high-level talks with Michele Poggipolini, CEO of engineering and manufacturing firm Poggipolini S.p.A., discussing ways to integrate the company into India's innovation-driven supply and chain management ecosystem. The Minister highlighted India’s evolving role as a reliable hub for digital supply chain solutions and future supply chain tracking technologies. He also met Daniele Forni, General Director of SOL Group, a multinational in technical and medical gases, exploring avenues for expanding across India’s key industrial and healthcare sectors. In a focused conversation with Tomaso Carraro, Vice Chairman of Carraro Group, Goyal reviewed Carraro India’s supply chain development program, future investment plans, and ways to deepen its local manufacturing capabilities. Goyal reiterated the Indian government’s support for international manufacturers investing in SCM innovations in India. Recognizing the growing demand for cold chain infrastructure, Goyal discussed sustainable refrigeration solutions with Marco Nocivelli, CEO of EPTA Group, as India’s retail and cold chain logistics sectors expand rapidly.

June 05, 2025 | Supply Chain
Airbus procurement chief to move to India role, no successor named

In a major leadership shift reflecting the evolving demands of procurement and supply chain management, European aerospace giant Airbus has appointed its top procurement supply chain executive, Juergen Westermeier, to oversee operations in India and South Asia starting September 1, 2025, according to an internal memo seen by Reuters. Westermeier, who has played a pivotal role in stabilizing procurement supply chain and logistics functions across Airbus' global network, will replace Remi Maillard, who was recently named Head of Technology. His successor as procurement chief remains unannounced. This move comes as Airbus struggles to meet its 2025 target of delivering 820 aircraft, amid weakened supply chains, labor shortages, and post-pandemic challenges. Airbus deliveries were down 4% in May and 5% year-to-date, according to recent data. Westermeier is known for pressuring suppliers to maintain high quality standards, hold more inventory, and align with Airbus' long-term procurement supply chain strategies. He previously led efforts to unify global supplier standards, positioning Airbus as a potential contender in procurement supply chain awards circuits. While some suppliers have called for renewed focus to support increased output, insiders suggest that Westermeier's new role is not a reaction to these issues. Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury commended his leadership, underscoring his contribution to procurement and supply chain stability.

June 05, 2025 | Procurement

Semiconductor War: Where Does India Stand Now?

The Global Chip Race In 2025, semiconductors have firmly established themselves as the foundation of the global digital economy. From smartphones and electric vehicles to defence systems and AI technologies, microchips are integral to every facet of modern innovation. As geopolitical tensions intensify, especially between the United States and China, semiconductors have become a symbol of strategic power and national security. The world is witnessing a “chip war,” where countries are racing not only to secure chip supplies but to control the means of their production, design, and innovation. In this global realignment, India is stepping up with a bold ambition: to become a credible and self-reliant semiconductor powerhouse. India’s current semiconductor demand stands at approximately USD 52 billion (2024), projected to cross USD 103 billion by 2030, driven by rapid digitization, increased electronics manufacturing, and rising domestic consumption in sectors like automotive, telecom, and consumer electronics. However, nearly 85% of this demand is currently met through imports, mostly from Taiwan, China, South Korea, and the U.S., highlighting a deep vulnerability in India’s tech supply chain. Global semiconductor shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war exposed India’s dependence on imports, pushing policymakers to accelerate efforts toward establishing a domestic semiconductor ecosystem. To address this gap, the Government of India launched the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), with a $10 billion (INR 76,000 crore) incentive scheme. The program aims to develop end-to-end semiconductor manufacturing and design infrastructure in India, from fabs and OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) units to chip design centres. This initiative is supported by state-level semiconductor policies, such as those in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, which offer capital subsidies, land allocation, and plug-and-play infrastructure to global investors. India has already secured strategic investments under this mission. Tata Electronics is setting up a $10.4 billion fabrication facility in Dholera, Gujarat, in partnership with Taiwan’s Power-chip Semiconductor. U.S.-based Micron Technology is establishing a $2.75 billion assembly and testing plant in Sanand, and Foxconn has teamed up with HCL for a display chip unit in Greater Noida. In addition, talks are underway with global players like Tower Semiconductor, AMD, Lam Research, and Renesas, reflecting growing international confidence in India’s policy direction. India’s chip ambition is also intertwined with global geopolitics. As the U.S. and its allies attempt to reduce dependence on China and Taiwan, India is increasingly being viewed as a strategic partner in creating an alternative, resilient supply chain in the Indo-Pacific region. Through frameworks like the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) and Quad Semiconductor Supply Chain Initiatives, India is leveraging diplomatic and trade alliances to gain access to cutting-edge semiconductor tech and R&D. India's Semiconductor Ambitions India’s semiconductor industry is rapidly emerging as a strategic pillar in the country’s quest for technological self-reliance and economic transformation. Valued at approximately USD 52 billion in 2024, the Indian semiconductor market is on a steep growth trajectory and is expected to more than double, reaching USD 103.4 billion by 2030, according to industry analysts. This surge is being driven by rising demand in sectors such as smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, consumer electronics, 5G infrastructure, and the growing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. However, despite this optimistic outlook, a significant challenge persists—India imports nearly 85% of its semiconductor requirements, heavily relying on countries like Taiwan, South Korea, China, and the United States for both raw chips and finished electronic components. This import dependency became glaringly visible during the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent geopolitical shifts, which disrupted global semiconductor supply chains. The shortage impacted critical sectors in India such as automobile manufacturing and electronics, prompting an urgent call for building a resilient, domestic semiconductor ecosystem. Recognizing the strategic and economic risks of continued reliance on external sources, the Indian government launched an ambitious policy initiative: the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). The ISM is a comprehensive roadmap designed to position India as a global hub for semiconductor manufacturing, design, and innovation. Backed by a USD 10 billion (INR 76,000 crore) incentive package, the mission focuses on creating the infrastructure, talent pool, and policy environment needed to attract global semiconductor manufacturers and encourage domestic capabilities. The incentives are being offered under a structured framework that includes Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, support for display fabrication units, design-linked incentives for chip design startups, and capital assistance for building semiconductor fabs and ATMP (Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging) units. One of the key elements of the ISM is its emphasis on public-private collaboration. The Indian government is actively seeking partnerships with global semiconductor giants to bring in technological expertise, best practices, and critical investments. This includes collaboration with companies like Tata Electronics, Micron Technology, Foxconn, and Tower Semiconductor, among others. These companies are setting up large-scale semiconductor fabrication and testing facilities in India, with projects underway in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. For instance, Tata’s USD 10.4 billion fab in Dholera, being built in partnership with Taiwan's Powerchip Semiconductor, is expected to produce 50,000 wafers per month for sectors like automotive and computing. Meanwhile, Micron’s facility in Sanand is set to become operational by 2025, boosting India's backend processing capabilities. Key Developments and Investments 1. Tata Electronics' Strategic Moves Tata Electronics is at the forefront of India's semiconductor endeavours. The company is investing over INR 910 billion (approximately USD 10.44 billion) to establish a semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, Gujarat, in collaboration with Taiwan's Power chip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation. This facility aims to produce 28nm chips, catering to sectors like automotive, computing, and AI. Additionally, Tata is setting up an Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility in Jagiroad, Assam, with an investment of INR 27,000 crore (around USD 3.6 billion). This plant is expected to generate over 25,000 jobs and bolster India's capabilities in semiconductor assembly and testing. 2. HCL-Foxconn Joint Venture The Indian government has approved a new semiconductor unit by the HCL-Foxconn joint venture, involving an investment of INR 3,706 crore. Located near the upcoming Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh, this facility will focus on semiconductor assembly and testing, contributing to the region's industrial development. 3. Micron Technology's Investment Micron Technology is establishing a semiconductor assembly and test facility in Sanand, Gujarat, with full operations expected by the end of 2025. This project is part of a broader investment push in the state, totalling INR 15,000 crore, aimed at building a comprehensive semiconductor value chain. 4. Lam Research's Commitment U.S.-based Lam Research plans to invest over USD 1 billion in India's Karnataka state to enhance the semiconductor ecosystem. This investment aligns with India's efforts to expand its semiconductor industry and is expected to boost the country's manufacturing capabilities.

India Supply Chain Summit 2025

December 4-6, 2025 | Gandhinagar, Gujarat
Cargo ship with 22 onboard catches fire off Alaska Coast, US Coast Guard responds, says 'no one injured'

In a major maritime incident highlighting risks in port logistics in the supply chain, the US Coast Guard on Wednesday responded to a fire on board the Morning Midas, a 600-foot cargo ship carrying 22 crew members. The vessel was located approximately 300 miles southwest of Adak, Alaska, en route to Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico, and flagged under Liberia. The Coast Guard confirmed that no injuries were reported, and the crew is actively combating the onboard blaze. As part of its response, aircrews and a cutter ship were dispatched to assist, while three other vessels were already present at the scene. The ship's operator, Hawthorn Navigation Limited, has yet to issue a public statement. This incident raises critical concerns for shipping ports and freight handling operations, especially in remote maritime zones. As global supply chains strive for resilience through smart port and supply chain strategies, unexpected disruptions like this underline the importance of emergency preparedness and inter-agency coordination. While the cause of the fire remains unknown, authorities are investigating potential environmental impacts. The Coast Guard remains vigilant to protect maritime safety in the North Pacific corridor, a key link in global trade routes. Amid growing challenges such as India port congestion and capacity limits worldwide, incidents like this emphasize the need for robust infrastructure and contingency planning to safeguard international shipping operations.

June 05, 2025 | Logistics
Ports Policy Statement Revision Proposed

On 4 June 2025, the UK government announced a major step toward modernizing its port logistics in supply chain management by launching a public consultation on the draft revised National Policy Statement for Ports (NPSP). This revised statement, last updated in 2012, will shape the future development of shipping ports and freight handling facilities in England and at the reserved trust port in Wales, Milford Haven. Stakeholders and the public have until 29 July 2025 to submit their feedback on the proposed changes. The review also includes an Appraisal of Sustainability (AoS) and a Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA), which will run concurrently with Parliamentary scrutiny until 14 November 2025. All documents, including newly published UK port freight demand forecasts, are now available on GOV.UK. This move aligns with broader planning reforms under the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, aimed at accelerating decision-making and boosting infrastructure for green energy and economic growth. In the context of global port congestion, especially the persistent India port congestion challenges, the UK’s emphasis on smart port and supply chain development highlights a strategic approach to modernize infrastructure and ensure more efficient, resilient maritime logistics for the future.

June 05, 2025 | Logistics
U.S. Debt Surge Triggers Alarm Bells Across Logistics Sector

A recent economic forecast by Ernst & Young (EY) reveals alarming trends that could reshape the future of logistics and supply chain management. According to the May 2025 report commissioned by the Peter G. Peterson Foundation, the U.S. national debt is projected to climb beyond 117% of GDP by 2035 and reach 206% by 2075, threatening key sectors such as logistics chain management. The study warns that sustained federal deficits exceeding $2 trillion annually will lead to a major “crowding out” of private investment. EY's Quantitative Economics and Statistics (QUEST) team forecasts a 13% drop in private investment by 2035, which could rise above 21% by 2075. This spells trouble for logistics services and distribution networks that depend on a steady flow of capital to fund logistics infrastructure projects like ports, highways, and rail terminals. As investment dries up, companies will need to rethink their logistics planning software and adopt more agile, real-time logistics planning tools to optimize resource use. The rising debt will also challenge demand forecasting in logistics, making it harder for businesses to predict and plan inventory flow accurately. This could further complicate logistics and distribution strategies, increase logistics packaging costs, and slow down the implementation of the best logistics strategies for businesses aiming for scalability and resilience. The EY report serves as a wake-up call for both policymakers and logistics leaders to prioritize fiscal reform, boost private sector investment, and innovate within the logistics and supply chain trends to stay competitive amid tightening capital access.

June 05, 2025 | Logistics

Logistics

Cargo ship with 22 onboard catches fire off Alaska Coast, US Coast Guard responds, says 'no one injured'

In a major maritime incident highlighting risks in port logistics in the supply chain, the US Coast Guard on Wednesday responded to a fire on board the Morning Midas, a 600-foot cargo ship carrying 22 crew members. The vessel was located approximately 300 miles southwest of Adak, Alaska, en route to Lazaro Cardenas, Mexico, and flagged under Liberia. The Coast Guard confirmed that no injuries were reported, and the crew is actively combating the onboard blaze. As part of its response, aircrews and a cutter ship were dispatched to assist, while three other vessels were already present at the scene. The ship's operator, Hawthorn Navigation Limited, has yet to issue a public statement. This incident raises critical concerns for shipping ports and freight handling operations, especially in remote maritime zones. As global supply chains strive for resilience through smart port and supply chain strategies, unexpected disruptions like this underline the importance of emergency preparedness and inter-agency coordination. While the cause of the fire remains unknown, authorities are investigating potential environmental impacts. The Coast Guard remains vigilant to protect maritime safety in the North Pacific corridor, a key link in global trade routes. Amid growing challenges such as India port congestion and capacity limits worldwide, incidents like this emphasize the need for robust infrastructure and contingency planning to safeguard international shipping operations.
June 05, 2025 | Logistics

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