JNPT Congestion Drives Export Costs Up by ₹30,000 Per Container

Exporters and logistics service providers report that prolonged truck queues, yard congestion, extended container dwell times and delays in cargo evacuation have collectively raised operational costs. The additional expenses stem from higher transportation charges, container detention fees, warehousing costs and disruptions to supply chain schedules. JNPT handles a substantial share of India’s containerized trade and serves as a critical gateway for exports of engineering goods, textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive components and agricultural products. Any disruption at the port has a ripple effect across supply chains, affecting exporters, freight forwarders, shipping lines and transport operators.      Industry representatives have expressed concern that rising logistics costs could erode the competitiveness of Indian exports in international markets, particularly at a time when global trade remains challenged by geopolitical uncertainties, fluctuating freight rates and soft demand in some regions. Small and medium-sized exporters are expected to be among the most affected, as they have limited ability to absorb additional costs.