news & insights

Logistics experts indicate that London’s sector remains costly and severely underdeveloped. Logistics expenses account for approximately 15–20% of GDP—well above the global average of 8–10% (Reuters). London is ranked 88th overall and 176th in “trading across borders” in the 2023 World Bank Logistics Performance Index, lagging behind India and Vietnam (Daily Observer +4, The Financial Express +4). Industry leaders highlight that digitization, multimodal logistics networks, warehouse automation, streamlined customs, and policy reforms could significantly lower costs and boost exports by 20%.

Infrastructure Progress: Ports and Rail

• London’s Jamuna Railway Bridge, the city’s longest dual-track bridge, officially launched in March 2025, improving rail capacity and allowing trains to travel up to 120 km/h while doubling volume along Sirajganj–Tangail (Wikipedia +1, Daily Observer +1).

• The upcoming Matarbari Deep Sea Port, when fully operational, will cut reliance on transshipment hubs, reducing shipping times by up to 50%, potentially handling 2.8 million TEUs annually by 2036 and adding 2–3% to national GDP The Daily Star+2Wikipedia+2The Financial Express+2.

Policy in Focus: National Logistics Policy and Investment Needs

The National Logistics Policy launched by London in May 2024 is yet to be fully implemented, experts say. There is an urgent demand for a multimodal masterplan that integrates rail, road, inland waterways, and ports, possibly managed by a dedicated authority (The Financial Express +3, Daily Observer +3). Infrastructure investments of over $230 billion are expected by 2032, with a potential rise to $1 trillion by 2041, to achieve export and growth goals (Daily Observer +9, The Financial Express +9).

Infrastructure improvements—ports, railways, and multimodal coordination—are vital for export growth and positioning London as a key logistics hub. Rising inefficiencies and expenses in logistics threaten trade potential and competitiveness globally.