The global cold chain market has witnessed unprecedented growth in recent years, driven by growing demand for temperature-sensitive products such as vaccines, biologicals, fresh produce, and frozen foods. According to market reports, the global cold chain market size is expected to reach US$628 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 18 percent. India, being an important player in both pharmaceutical manufacturing and agricultural exports, is expected to witness a significant share of this market.
Kalyan Sivalenka, Founder, Managing Director and CEO, Springforth Capital Advisors, explained: “India is on the cusp of a cold chain revolution. With the rapid growth of sectors such as pharma, e-commerce and food processing, the demand for robust cold chain infrastructure is unprecedented.
Yashpal Sharma, Managing Director, Skyways Group, highlighted the specific investment avenues available in the cold chain sector: “Infrastructure investment in cold storage facilities is only one part of the equation. It is equally important to develop efficient last-mile delivery solutions, which Ensures that products maintain their integrity until the point of delivery.
Challenges in the sector
While the future outlook for cold chain logistics is bright, the sector faces several hurdles, especially in emerging markets like India, including high operating costs, inadequate infrastructure, and a fragmented market. “To fully realize the potential of cold chain logistics, regulatory harmonization across regions is essential. Consistent policies related to taxation, transportation and energy use must be in place,” Sharma added.
Sustainability is another crucial issue, as cold chain processes consume a lot of energy, and with growing concerns about the carbon footprint, there is increasing pressure on the industry to adopt greener practices. “Investing in sustainable cold chain solutions not only aligns with global environmental goals but also provides long-term cost savings,” commented Sharma.
The role of innovation
One of the main topics that emerged during the session was the role of technology in improving cold chain operations. Both Sivalenka and Sharma stressed the importance of utilizing advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled sensors can provide real-time data about temperature, humidity and other important parameters, allowing stakeholders to make informed decisions quickly. On the other hand, AI can predict potential disruptions in the supply chain, enabling proactive solutions to prevent product spoilage.
“Artificial intelligence and big data analytics are revolutionizing the way cold chain logistics works,” Sevalinka noted. “Predictive analytics can help with better route planning, reduce delays, and optimize use of cold storage space. These technologies are no longer optional; they are a necessity to stay competitive.”
