‘India’s position in Eurasian corridors stays strong & offer opportunities’

Balagopal Ramachandran, National Head – Air Freight, FEI Cargo said, “India is at a turning point. Emerging trade routes like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) promise faster, cheaper access to Europe, Central Asia, and beyond by offering a vital alternative to traditional maritime routes. Opportunities are clear: Transit times could drop by 40 per cent and logistics costs by nearly 30 per cent. India’s trade with Central Asia has already grown 3.5 times since 2010, reaching $1.7 billion in 2023, led by pharmaceuticals, machinery, and electrical equipment. The EFTA trade deal could attract $100 billion in FDI over 15 years. Global challenges, however, remain. U.S. tariffs imposed in August 2025 on $48.2 billion of Indian goods have slashed exports by 37.5 per cent, hitting textiles, gems jewellery , pharma etc . These hurdles highlight the need to diversify—Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia are emerging as key markets. The road ahead isn’t easy. Infrastructure, digital connectivity, geopolitical tensions, and regulatory hurdles all demand careful navigation. Yet, India’s position in Eurasian corridors underscores a simple truth: opportunities favour the prepared ones . By staying resilient, adapting to changing markets, and broadening trade partnerships, India can turn challenges into growth engines by strengthening its global influence and paving the way for sustainable economic progress.”