According to a new report, the Indian e-commerce market is expected to reach $120 billion by 2026, from the previous low of $38 billion in 2021, this rise in the retail and e-commerce sectors will contribute to the economic growth of the warehousing and logistics sector in the country. The said report was jointly released by industry body FICCI and property consultancy Anarock this Thursday.
The report said, that the market size of the retail segment will be estimated to grow to more than $1.8 trillion by 2030 from $705 billion in 2020. "Additionally, COVID-19 has accelerated the growth of e-commerce across India. Online shopping has increased significantly in Tier-II and Tier-III cities as well due to the easy availability of the internet on cheaper tariffs and restrictions on physical movement during the time of the pandemic," the industry body said in a statement.
This improved trend has provided an impetus to the warehousing and logistics sector beyond tier-I cities. The constant push and ambitions for infrastructure development and policy support provided by the government are expected to ride the next wave of growth for the industrial, warehousing, and logistics sectors in India, it added.
The report also mentioned some of the measures taken by the Central government such as the Gati NSE 0.88% Shakti Program, GST, National Manufacturing Policy, Aatmanirbhar Bharat Campaign, and land & tax reforms.
Additionally, Covid-19-led lockdowns across the globe highlighted the need for a China plus one strategy for manufacturing as the supply chain for various companies was disrupted at the time of forced lockdowns in China.
Several companies are now looking to shift their base away from China, or are keen to open a new manufacturing facility in other countries, and India is a top contender.
National Logistics Policy is in the draft stage and is expected to change the face of the logistics sector in India, it further said.
The FICCI-Anarock report said that demand for office spaces in the key office hubs will be fortified with companies planning a steady return of employees to offices despite the pandemic coupled with positive hiring intentions during the second quarter of 2022.
"There would be more demand for quality workspaces that are well-located and offer convenience to the employees besides a gamut of other facilities that promote well-being and hygiene," the statement added.
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