The key trends determining the international express industry are as follows:

(i) Growth Drivers: Development of MSMEs, progress of manufacturing in India as a result of ‘Make in India’ initiative,  technology deployment aiding superior tracing and tracking are few key factors that have driven the development of international express.

(ii) Automation of Customs Clearance: Electronic Data Interchange interface implemented at the top international terminals in India. The customs clearance functions automation is easing customs clearance and procedures of inspection and is likely to lead to higher competences in international express.

(iii) Cross Border E-Commerce: Cross border e-commerce started to contribute to international express. Though, this segment is still at a budding stage due to high delivery and transport charges, prolonged transit times, customs related bottlenecks and complex return processes. Cross border e-commerce was partial as Indian courier regulations did not support commercial transaction. Gifts and free samples were only allowed for shipping through courier mode. The e-commerce shipments were subjected to custom taxes and duties which significantly raised the cost of shipping as well the transit time. Courier Imports and Exports (Clearance) Amendment in 2016 allows e-commerce goods to be shipped by courier mode. It is expected to boost e-commerce.