‘Indian market on an upward spiral’

THERE HAS been a huge increase in traffic in both directions between India and South Africa, says Martine Forbes, a director at Linex Air Services. The company considers India to be one of its strongest markets and has built up an ever-increasing portfolio of high-profile customers over the past 11 years. While traditional products such as textiles and ceramics make up part of the cargo they carry, there are also some unexpected commodities on board. India is a major player in the information technology sector and the country’s programmers and software are much sought-after in South Africa. There are also many laboratories in India and Linex often ships samples of pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs and the like to India for scientific testing. Linex has offices in Bombay, Delhi, Chennai and Bengaluru, offering a wide selection of services to its customers. Forbes believes that the Indian market will continue to grow – she cites the strong bond and excellent relationship between South Africa and India as the foundation for continued success and increase in trade. Linex has also recently opened an office in Dubai to serve as a gateway to the Middle East. Exports to the region include textiles, hotel equipment and paperwork relating to contracts and other business deals. Linex is the General Sales Agent (GSA) for Cathay Pacific Wholesale Courier and therefore has a strong, established presence in the region, says Forbes. In addition, the company offers neutral courier and express freight solutions to airlines, retail courier companies and freight forwarders.