India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast and Opportunities, 2020-2030F

The India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market was valued at USD 4.70 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 12.19 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 17.04%. India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics refers to the infrastructure and processes involved in maintaining the integrity and quality of perishable goods through controlled temperature environments during storage, transportation, and distribution.

This market encompasses facilities such as refrigerated warehouses, refrigerated transportation vehicles, and temperature-controlled packaging solutions essential for preserving the freshness and extending the shelf life of products like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, pharmaceuticals, and vaccines. The rise of the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics market is driven by several factors. The increasing demand for perishable goods, including fresh produce, dairy products, and pharmaceuticals, necessitates efficient cold chain infrastructure to ensure these goods reach consumers in optimal condition. With a growing population and rising disposable incomes, consumer preferences are shifting towards healthier and fresher food options, thereby boosting the demand for cold chain facilities.

The expansion of organized retail and e-commerce sectors in India is contributing significantly to the growth of the cold chain market. Organized retail chains require reliable cold chain logistics to maintain product quality and safety standards from farm to retail shelves. Similarly, the e-commerce sector, particularly in groceries and fresh food delivery, relies on robust cold chain networks to fulfill orders promptly and maintain customer satisfaction.

Moreover, advancements in technology and infrastructure improvements are driving the evolution of the cold chain market in India. Innovations such as IoT-enabled monitoring systems, GPS tracking, and real-time temperature monitoring solutions enhance the visibility and efficiency of cold chain operations. These technologies help mitigate risks associated with temperature fluctuations, reduce wastage, and improve supply chain transparency and traceability. Furthermore, government initiatives and policies aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting food safety, and reducing post-harvest losses are also propelling the growth of the cold chain industry in India.

Schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana (PMKSY) and National Horticulture Mission (NHM) emphasize the development of cold chain infrastructure to support farmers and improve market access for perishable agricultural produce. The India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics market is poised for significant growth due to increasing demand for perishable goods, expansion of organized retail and e-commerce sectors, technological advancements, and supportive government policies. As the country continues to modernize its supply chain infrastructure and address logistical challenges, the cold chain sector will play a crucial role in ensuring food safety, reducing wastage, and meeting the evolving needs of consumers and industries nationwide.

The growth of e-commerce platforms like BigBasket, Amazon Pantry, and ZappFresh has been a major driver of the cold chain logistics market. The online grocery market in India, including the sale of perishable goods, is projected to grow from USD 5.4 billion in 2023 to USD 10.5 billion by 2027.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Perishable Goods

The increasing consumer demand for perishable goods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and seafood is a significant driver for the India cold chain storage and logistics market. The growing awareness among consumers regarding the health benefits of fresh produce and the rising disposable income have resulted in a substantial increase in the consumption of perishable items. Furthermore, the expansion of organized retail and e-commerce platforms in India has facilitated easier access to these goods, further amplifying their demand.

The storage and transportation of perishable goods require strict temperature-controlled environments to maintain their quality and safety. This necessity has led to substantial investments in modern cold chain infrastructure across the country. Both private and public sectors are actively involved in enhancing storage facilities and logistics networks to meet the growing demand. For instance, initiatives under government schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana aim to boost cold storage capacity, ensuring seamless transportation and storage of perishable items.

Additionally, the increasing export of perishable products from India to international markets has necessitated advancements in cold chain solutions. Exporters require high-quality cold chain systems to comply with stringent international quality standards and ensure the freshness of products during transit. As a result, companies are focusing on adopting innovative technologies such as Internet of Things-enabled sensors and advanced refrigeration systems to enhance operational efficiency and cater to the evolving needs of the market. India’s food and grocery retail industry is expected to reach USD 1.1 trillion by 2025, with perishable goods such as fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and seafood accounting for a significant portion of this market. The rising preference for fresh and healthy foods is a key driver of this growth.

Growth in the Pharmaceutical Industry

The rapid growth of the pharmaceutical industry in India is another critical factor driving the cold chain storage and logistics market. Pharmaceuticals, particularly vaccines, biologics, and other temperature-sensitive medicines, require precise storage and transportation conditions to maintain their efficacy. The recent global focus on healthcare, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, has further underscored the importance of robust cold chain infrastructure for the distribution of essential medicines and vaccines.

India’s position as a global pharmaceutical manufacturing hub has significantly contributed to the demand for cold chain solutions. The increasing production of high-value biologics and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases have necessitated the development of sophisticated cold chain systems. Additionally, the government’s focus on immunization programs and the introduction of temperature-sensitive vaccines have further emphasized the need for efficient cold chain logistics.

The adoption of advanced technologies in cold storage facilities, such as automated temperature monitoring and real-time tracking, is playing a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and integrity of pharmaceutical products. Furthermore, collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and logistics providers are fostering the development of customized cold chain solutions, addressing the unique requirements of the industry. The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in predictive analytics is also aiding in optimizing cold chain operations, reducing wastage, and improving overall efficiency. India's cold storage capacity, as of 2023, stands at 37.2 million metric tons (MT). However, with the increasing demand for perishable goods, the country is expected to expand its cold storage infrastructure by over 15% in the next few years to meet the growing need.

Technological Advancements in Cold Chain Solutions

Technological advancements in cold chain solutions are significantly propelling the growth of the India cold chain storage and logistics market. Innovations in refrigeration technologies, monitoring systems, and logistics management are enhancing the efficiency and reliability of cold chain operations, thereby catering to the diverse needs of various industries.

Modern cold storage facilities are increasingly equipped with advanced refrigeration systems that ensure precise temperature control, minimizing the risk of spoilage and wastage of perishable goods. The integration of Internet of Things-enabled sensors and devices allows real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and other critical parameters, ensuring the integrity of stored products throughout the supply chain. Additionally, the use of blockchain technology in cold chain logistics is gaining traction, providing enhanced transparency and traceability of goods.

The deployment of energy-efficient refrigeration systems and the adoption of renewable energy sources in cold storage facilities are addressing environmental concerns and reducing operational costs. Companies are investing in solar-powered cold storage units and energy-efficient equipment to align with sustainability goals and reduce their carbon footprint.

Furthermore, the emergence of automated storage and retrieval systems, coupled with advanced warehouse management software, is revolutionizing cold storage operations. These technologies enable efficient inventory management, reduce manual errors, and optimize storage capacity, thereby improving overall productivity. The adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive analytics and demand forecasting is further streamlining cold chain logistics, enabling companies to meet dynamic market demands effectively. Over 80% of cold chain companies have implemented or plan to implement Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and location by 2025.

Key Market Challenges

High Initial Investment and Operating Costs

The India cold chain storage and logistics market faces a significant challenge in terms of the high initial investment and operating costs associated with developing and maintaining cold chain infrastructure. Establishing modern cold storage facilities and refrigerated transportation networks requires substantial capital expenditure, including investments in advanced refrigeration systems, temperature-controlled vehicles, and automated monitoring equipment. These costs often pose a barrier for small and medium-sized enterprises, limiting their ability to participate in the market.

Moreover, the operational costs of running cold chain facilities are considerable, driven by energy consumption, maintenance expenses, and labor requirements. The reliance on electricity-intensive refrigeration systems significantly increases operating expenses, particularly in regions where power costs are high or where there is limited access to reliable electricity supply. Additionally, the need for skilled personnel to manage and maintain cold chain systems adds to the overall operational burden.

To address these challenges, stakeholders in the industry are exploring innovative solutions such as energy-efficient refrigeration technologies and renewable energy sources to reduce costs. Collaborative efforts between the government and private sector to provide financial support and subsidies for cold chain projects are also essential to mitigate the impact of high investment and operating costs on market growth.

Fragmented and Inefficient Supply Chain

The fragmented and inefficient nature of the supply chain is a major challenge impacting the India cold chain storage and logistics market. The lack of integration and coordination among different stakeholders, including farmers, manufacturers, distributors, and logistics providers, often leads to inefficiencies and delays in the movement of goods. This fragmentation is particularly pronounced in the agricultural sector, where small-scale farmers face difficulties in accessing cold storage facilities and transportation networks.

Inadequate infrastructure, such as poorly maintained roads and limited rail connectivity, further exacerbates supply chain inefficiencies. The absence of standardized processes and technologies across the cold chain ecosystem results in inconsistent quality and increased wastage of perishable goods. Additionally, the limited availability of real-time data and tracking systems hinders visibility and transparency in the supply chain, making it challenging to address operational bottlenecks and optimize logistics.

Efforts to overcome these challenges include the development of integrated cold chain networks and the adoption of advanced supply chain management technologies. Investments in infrastructure improvement, such as dedicated freight corridors and multimodal transportation systems, are crucial to enhancing connectivity and reducing transit times. Furthermore, fostering collaboration among stakeholders through digital platforms and partnerships can help create a more cohesive and efficient cold chain ecosystem.

Key Market Trends

Adoption of IoT and Automation Technologies

One of the prominent trends shaping the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market is the increasing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) and automation technologies. IoT-enabled sensors and devices are revolutionizing cold chain operations by providing real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity levels, and other environmental conditions critical for maintaining product integrity. These technologies offer stakeholders visibility into the entire supply chain, enabling proactive management of temperature-sensitive cargo and minimizing the risk of spoilage or quality degradation.

Automation in cold chain logistics encompasses automated inventory management systems, robotic handling and packing solutions, and autonomous vehicles for transportation. These advancements not only enhance operational efficiency but also reduce human error, labor costs, and dependency on manual processes. As stakeholders strive to improve supply chain transparency, traceability, and compliance with regulatory standards, IoT and automation technologies are expected to play a pivotal role in driving efficiency gains and ensuring end-to-end visibility across the cold chain ecosystem. 50% of cold storage facilities are expected to adopt some form of automation by 2025, helping to address labor shortages and improve speed and accuracy in operations.

Rise of Cold Chain as a Service (CCaaS) Models

Another emerging trend in the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market is the rise of Cold Chain as a Service (CCaaS) models. CCaaS solutions offer flexible and scalable cold chain services tailored to meet the specific needs of stakeholders, including food producers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and e-commerce platforms. These service models encompass end-to-end cold chain solutions, including storage, transportation, inventory management, and value-added services such as packaging, labeling, and quality control.

CCaaS providers leverage cloud-based platforms and digital technologies to offer on-demand access to cold storage facilities, refrigerated transport fleets, and temperature-controlled packaging solutions. This approach allows stakeholders to optimize resource allocation, reduce upfront capital investments, and respond dynamically to fluctuating market demands and seasonal variations in product volumes. By outsourcing cold chain operations to specialized service providers, businesses can focus on core competencies, improve supply chain agility, and mitigate risks associated with cold chain management.

Moreover, CCaaS models facilitate collaboration and partnership opportunities between stakeholders within the cold chain ecosystem, promoting synergies in logistics, technology adoption, and market expansion. As the demand for tailored cold chain solutions grows across diverse industries, including agriculture, healthcare, and retail, CCaaS providers are poised to capitalize on this trend by offering cost-effective, compliant, and scalable cold chain services that enhance operational efficiency and drive competitive advantage.

Focus on Sustainable Cold Chain Practices

A third key trend in the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market is the increasing focus on sustainable cold chain practices. Stakeholders are increasingly prioritizing environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and carbon footprint reduction in cold chain operations. This trend is driven by regulatory pressures, consumer expectations for eco-friendly products, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development goals.

To address these sustainability challenges, cold chain operators are investing in energy-efficient refrigeration technologies, renewable energy sources such as solar power, and eco-friendly packaging materials. Adopting green logistics practices, including optimizing transportation routes, minimizing empty miles, and adopting electric and hybrid vehicles, further contributes to reducing the environmental impact of cold chain operations. Additionally, implementing waste management and recycling programs for packaging materials supports circular economy principles and enhances resource efficiency throughout the supply chain.

Furthermore, certification programs such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for cold storage facilities and cold chain logistics providers validate sustainable practices and demonstrate commitment to environmental stewardship. By embracing sustainable cold chain practices, stakeholders can improve operational resilience, mitigate regulatory risks, enhance brand reputation, and meet evolving consumer preferences for environmentally responsible products and services. As sustainability becomes increasingly intertwined with business strategy, the adoption of sustainable cold chain practices is expected to gain momentum and shape the future of the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market. CEVA will acquire approximately 7.7 million square feet of space across over 70 facilities in 21 cities throughout India.

Segmental Insights

Application Insights

In 2024, the Fruit & Vegetable segment dominated the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. India is one of the largest producers of fruits and vegetables globally, with a diverse range of produce cultivated across various climatic regions. The Fruit & Vegetable segment benefits significantly from cold chain solutions to preserve freshness, extend shelf life, and maintain nutritional quality from farm to consumer. Cold chain logistics play a crucial role in reducing post-harvest losses, enhancing market access, and meeting consumer demand for fresh and seasonal produce year-round.

The segment's dominance is driven by increasing consumer awareness of health and nutrition, rising disposable incomes, and urbanization trends favoring convenient access to fresh produce. Furthermore, government initiatives promoting agricultural infrastructure development and food processing sectors further bolster demand for cold chain solutions in the Fruit & Vegetable segment.

As the Indian food processing industry expands, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences, the adoption of cold chain storage and logistics for fruits and vegetables is expected to continue growing. Investments in modern cold storage facilities, refrigerated transportation, and advanced packaging technologies are crucial to supporting the segment's growth trajectory, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and ensuring food safety standards are met across the entire cold chain ecosystem. The Fruit & Vegetable segment's resilience and growth potential underscore its pivotal role in shaping the future of the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market, driving innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in agricultural supply chains.

Region Insights

In 2024, North India emerged as the dominant region in the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market and is poised to maintain its leadership during the forecast period. The region encompasses states such as Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh, which are key agricultural production hubs for fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meat. North India's dominance in the cold chain sector is attributed to several factors. Firstly, the region benefits from a robust agricultural ecosystem characterized by diverse crop cultivation and high agricultural output. Cold chain logistics play a crucial role in preserving the freshness and quality of perishable goods from production centers to consumption markets, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring year-round availability of seasonal produce.

North India's strategic geographical location facilitates seamless connectivity with major consumption centers and export markets, enhancing the efficiency of cold chain transportation networks. The region's proximity to metropolitan cities such as Delhi and Chandigarh, as well as its logistical linkages with neighboring states and international borders, supports the distribution of perishable goods across domestic and global markets. Government initiatives and investments in agricultural infrastructure development, food processing industries, and cold chain logistics further bolster North India's dominance in the market.

Policies aimed at promoting cold storage facilities, refrigerated transportation, and modern packaging technologies incentivize stakeholders to adopt advanced cold chain solutions and enhance supply chain efficiency. These initiatives align with national priorities to reduce food wastage, improve farm income, and ensure food security for the growing population.

North India's vibrant retail sector, including organized retail chains and e-commerce platforms, drives demand for efficient cold chain services to maintain product quality and meet consumer expectations for fresh and safe food products. As the region continues to witness urbanization, industrialization, and technological advancements in cold chain infrastructure, North India is expected to maintain its pivotal role in shaping the future growth trajectory of the India Cold Chain Storage and Logistics Market. By leveraging its agricultural strength, logistical advantages, and supportive policy environment, North India remains well-positioned to drive innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness in the cold chain sector across the country.

Key Market Players

• Americold Logistics, LLC
• Burris Logistics
• Ortus Solutions, Corp
• Conestoga Cold Storage
• Congebec (Transport) Inc
• Lineage, Inc.
• Nichirei Corporation
• Tippmann Group
• United States Cold Storage
• VersaCold Logistics Services

Report Scope:

In this report, the India Cold Chain Storage And Logistics Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

India Cold Chain Storage And Logistics Market, By Service Type:

• Refrigerated Warehouse
• Refrigerated Transportation

India Cold Chain Storage And Logistics Market, By Application:

• Seafood
• Meat
• Fruit & Vegetable
• Dairy Products
• Alternative Protein
• Others

India Cold Chain Storage And Logistics Market, By Temperature Type:

• Frozen
• Chilled

India Cold Chain Storage And Logistics Market, By Technology:

• Dry Ice
• Gel Packs
• Eutectic Plates
• Liquid Nitrogen
• Quilts

India Cold Chain Storage And Logistics Market, By Region:

• North India
• West India
• South India
• East India

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the India Cold Chain Storage And Logistics Market.

Available Customizations:

With the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

This product will be delivered within 1-3 business days.