CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Transforming Experience into Intelligent Logistics

As we cross the midpoint of 2026, the global logistics conversation has fundamentally shifted. The industry is no longer talking about surviving volatility; we are talking about mastering speed, data, and precision. At CSS, our mandate is clear: we are not just moving cargo—we are engineering competitive advantages for our partners.

A striking illustration of this reality unfolded on June 15 at the FIFA World Cup. When Cape Verde secured a historic 0–0 draw against Spain, it wasn’t just an emotional victory; it was a masterclass in tactical discipline. Their 40-year-old goalkeeper, Vozinha, didn’t make history on his debut by sheer luck. He did it through predictive positioning, immaculate timing, and decades of refined expertise.

In modern logistics, we face a matching playing field. The winners are no longer determined by the sheer size of their fleet, but by the intelligence of their positioning.

Architects of the Modern Supply Chain

CSS is moving into this predictive era. We have spent more than three decades building a legacy of absolute reliability across global trade lanes. But a legacy is only as valuable as the future it builds. Today, our capital investments are heavily targeted toward predictive logistics and data-driven visibility systems that neutralize disruptions before they hit our clients’ bottom lines.

Yet, advanced architectures are useless without the minds trained to guide them. Our ongoing evolution isn’t about replacing human judgment with automation; it is about empowering our team to become highly specialized tech-enabled consultants.

The true asset of CSS remains the deep, generational trust we share with our partners. As we look ahead, we will continue to match our decades of operational heritage with the unyielding speed of tomorrow’s technology.

INSIDE CSS – FROM UNCERTAINTY TO ASSURANCE: HOW CSS AND HAPAG-LLOYD AG TURNED VISIBILITY INTO CUSTOMER CONFIDENCE

In today’s supply chain environment, uncertainty can emerge without warning. Geopolitical tensions, vessel rerouting, gateway closures, and shifting trade conditions can leave customers searching for answers. A recent collaboration between Consolidated Shipping Group (CSS Group) and Hapag-Lloyd AG demonstrated how real-time visibility and strong partnerships can turn uncertainty into confidence.

As disruptions continue to impact shipping routes across the region, there is growing uncertainty about the location of transit cargo. A CSS customer urgently needed confirmation that a container had successfully exited the Persian Gulf. With traditional milestone tracking unable to provide the immediate reassurance required, the situation called for a faster solution.

Rather than waiting for standard updates or making assumptions, Joel Tauro of CSS contacted Katharina Seidel of Hapag-Lloyd AG outside of regular business hours to obtain real-time shipment visibility. Using Hapag-Lloyd’s ‘Live Position tracking tool’, they were able to pinpoint the container’s exact location and confirm that it had already entered the Gulf of Oman aboard the Tema Express.

The update was delivered to the customer within minutes, providing clarity during a period of heightened uncertainty

Real-Time Visibility: Essential Infrastructure for Modern Logistics

The incident highlights a growing reality across the logistics industry: real-time visibility and live tracking are not mere “premium perks”—they are mission-critical infrastructure. Customers today expect immediate access to reliable shipment information for enabling informed decision-making and transparent communication.

Reflecting on the experience, Joel Tauro emphasized the evolving role of transparency in supply chain management. “Transparency isn’t just a corporate buzzword anymore—it’s a modern business operational standard,” he said. “The real magic happens when you couple it with accessibility.”

For Hapag-Lloyd and CSS, the successful resolution of this situation showcased the strength of a partnership built on responsiveness, trust, and shared commitment to customer success.

“During disruptions, access to reliable real-time information can make all the difference,” said Katharina Seidel. “Visibility tools empower our partners and customers with the confidence to make informed decisions and respond quickly when circumstances change.”

As global logistics grows more complex, partnerships like CSS Group and Hapag-Lloyd demonstrate the power of digital innovation, transparency, and collaboration. Together, they help deliver the timely answers and confidence customers need in an uncertain world.

INSIDE CSS – CHARTING THE COURSE FOR SEA FREIGHT: NEPTUNE CARGO NETWORK’S 8TH ANNUAL PARTNERSHIP MEETING

The global sea freight landscape requires constant adaptability, a reality that took center stage at the Neptune Cargo Network 8th Annual Partnership Meeting. Held at the prestigious Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia from June 8 to June 11, 2026, this four-day premier industry event gathered neutral NVOCC and freight forwarding professionals to tackle shifting logistics dynamics. Representing CSS Group at this significant gathering were Ras Masood – Global Network Director and Shubham Lalwani – Commercial Manager, both of whom engaged actively in strategic dialogues aimed at
strengthening global supply chains.

A Strategic Four-Day Agenda

The comprehensive agenda kicked off on Monday, June 8, with attendee registration and an elegant Welcome Cocktail Reception hosted in the Sarawak Room. On Tuesday, June 9, the focus shifted to critical network management updates, celebrated award ceremonies, and high-impact afternoon face-to-face meetings. A major highlight of the day was the headline keynote address delivered in the Grand Ballroom by guest speaker Shirley Sy Leong, titled “Leadership in the AI Era: Building Resilience in the New AI World with Uncertainty.” Her presentation focused on helping logistics leaders manage uncertainty with confidence.

This theme seamlessly transitioned into an interactive panel discussion centered on building operational resilience within the global LCL consolidation and sea freight sectors. Industry experts highlighted key operational strategies: managing AI integration into daily workflows without losing relationship-driven human elements, handling supply chain volatility stemming from geopolitical factors or shifting trade lanes, and leveraging specialized, trusted network partnerships as a collective safety net to transform sudden challenges into commercial opportunities.

Wednesday, June 10, expanded on these vital connection windows with dedicated morning and afternoon one-on-one sessions, capped off by an evening Sunset Cocktail. The event officially concluded on Thursday, June 11, with a final round of face-to-face meetings and a celebratory Closing Happy Hour

Driving Innovation and Collaborative Success

For the CSS team, the event provided an invaluable platform for strategic one-on-one discussions. Ras Masood and Shubham Lalwani focused heavily on navigating the complex situation in the Middle East, allowing CSS to connect closely with its global partners, explore fresh sectors, and map out new areas of targeted opportunity.

Beyond business sessions, the spectacular Sunset Cocktail event offered attendees a breathtaking, clear view of the iconic Petronas Towers, blending professional synergy with an unforgettable Malaysian backdrop. Looking ahead, the network officially announced that it will gather next year in Shanghai for Neptune 2027 to continue driving international logistics collaboration.

INSIDE CSS – BUILDING BRIDGES IN MARRAKECH: CSS GROUP EXPANDS GLOBAL RELATIONS AT OPENAP10

The global air freight sector is undergoing a profound operational transformation driven by rapid digitization, stricter compliance metrics, and shifting commercial demands. This evolving landscape took center stage at the high-profile OPENAP10 Marrakech conference, where industry leaders gathered under a definitive rallying cry: The next decade belongs to connected specialists. Representing the CSS Group at this milestone Neutral Air Partner (NAP) event were Krishna Kaladharan – Chief Operating Officer, Freight Forwarding & Operations and Abhiram Hrithwik – Senior Pricing Analyst.

Strategic Industry Insights

The global air freight sector is undergoing a profound operational transformation driven by rapid digitization, stricter compliance metrics, and shifting commercial demands. This evolving landscape took center stage at the high-profile OPENAP10 Marrakech conference, where industry leaders gathered under a definitive rallying cry: The next decade belongs to connected specialists. Representing the CSS Group at this milestone Neutral Air Partner (NAP) event were Krishna Kaladharan – Chief Operating Officer, Freight Forwarding & Operations and Abhiram Hrithwik – Senior Pricing Analyst.

Strengthening Partner Connections and Regional Growth

Rather than just observing industry shifts, the core value of OPENAP10 Marrakech for CSS lay in the invaluable platform it provided for relationship-driven logistics. Events of this magnitude serve as an essential arena for the CSS team to actively engage with long-standing, existing partners while simultaneously building fresh relationships with independent professionals from across the globe.

By engaging in localized dialogues—such as exploring host nation Morocco’s massive logistics ambition at the crossroads of global trade—CSS gained deep regional insights that are vital for capturing future market opportunities. Ultimately, these networking events reinforce the power of trusted partnerships as a collective safety net. They ensure that CSS remains fully integrated into a stronger air cargo ecosystem, allowing the team to seamlessly translate global market intelligence into optimized, real-world freight solutions for clients worldwide.

INSIDE CSS – THE POWER OF AN INTERN: CULTIVATING FUTURE LEADERS AT CSS ELOGIX

“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” Shakespeare’s timeless words remind us of life’s evolving chapters. Yet, in the corporate landscape, the most critical act begins at the very root of a career: the internship. In an era where AI is rapidly reshaping business dynamics, the hands-on experience gained through internship programmes far outmatches traditional classroom learning, acting as a vital catalyst for career readiness.

What Makes an Intern, an Intern?

The true definition of an intern goes far beyond fulfilling a curriculum requirement. It is about providing a platform where raw ambition meets real-world opportunity. I recall a fascinating moment from my time at an Austrian R&D center, where a 12-year-old boy in casual shorts and a t-shirt joined our staff coffee break. To our surprise, a senior research leader confirmed this young guest had been recruited as an intern to assist in our sophisticated laboratories. Whether it was his age or his impudent yet audacious ice-breaking jokes – what truly stood out remains a matter of debate – but this recruitment process deviated from conventional norms. It emphasized the significance of equal opportunity and provided young, aspiring minds with a platform beyond their formative years to pursue their dreams through such roles.

My Personal Insight to Internships

My own career timeline across the UK and Europe was deeply shaped by these structural stepping stones. During my university days, I had the privilege of tackling highly complex projects. Before even completing my first year, I was tasked with designing an action flow for recycling waste oil into an aero-engine sump at the university’s advanced research centre, and on my penultimate year of bachelors, an internship at EADS Munich, Germany, to design and optimise fuel cells. Though I was a novice, interacting with global experts taught me that no meeting is trivial. Those early sessions became my cornerstone for learning professional etiquette, sharp thinking, and the secrets to climbing the career ladder

Bringing the Vision to CSS eLogix

Carrying these vital experiences under my belt is exactly what drives my philosophy today at CSS eLogix. As a premier Middle East fulfillment center heavily reliant on our tech-based infrastructure, our in-house built ERP and R&D department serve as our core engine room. To transform our IT and understand evolving market requirements, it was personally important for me to identify an intern who could be crucial in identifying our pitfalls and carrying out important tasks. With all of my experience, I believed interns have the real talent to be a vital cog in my firm and go beyond the norms set by their predecessors in conventional hiring policies. This resulted in an intern programme at CSS eLogix with an objective to enhance the talent resource pool in-house and create future generations. A CV from a staffer within, played out perfectly for the part and, like every pilot episode in a TV series, he became the first. From day one, his meticulous work ethic and polite demeanor stood out as a breath of fresh air. A year later, his rapid growth, maturity, and keen attention to project detail earned the trust of his peers, smoothly transitioning him into a full-fledged IT R&D Executive.

An intern’s success, however, is a two-way street. A company bears an equal responsibility to foster an environment where talent can thrive. We view our role akin to a university tutor—listening to fresh ideas without prejudice, filtering them constructively, and providing meaningful challenges. When selecting candidates, we look beyond static resumes for two irreplaceable traits: hunger and the right attitude. As an SME, we excel at setting benchmarks, offering a launchpad for raw talent, and laying foundations that align an individual’s dream with our long-term corporate vision.

Shaping Tomorrow’s Journey

The evolving nature of the job market, driven by rapid technological advancements and shifting industry demands, necessitates a commitment to lifelong learning, adaptability, and skill-building. Engaging in experiences that challenge existing knowledge, foster critical thinking, and develop professional competencies is crucial for remaining relevant and competitive in one’s field. Moreover, gaining experience through various channels encourages individuals to cultivate a diverse set of skills and perspectives, enhancing their ability to adapt to different roles and environments. The process of career development is not linear; it is shaped by continuous exploration, learning, and refinement of one’s interests, skills, and goals. Therefore, the ability to seek out meaningful experiences, actively participate in professional development opportunities, and remain open to new learning pathways is fundamental to achieving long-term career success.

INSIDE CSS – A PARTNERSHIP FOR GROWTH: TECHGRIP’S JOURNEY WITH CSS ELOGIX

Building a successful e-commerce brand takes more than a great product. It requires a strong operational foundation that can support growth at every stage. For TechGrip, that foundation has been provided by its partnership with CSS eLogix.

Founded in 2020, TechGrip set out to create high-quality goalkeeper gloves that deliver performance, affordability, and reliability. Since then, the brand has expanded its reach across markets, earning the trust of players worldwide. In 2026, TechGrip reached a major milestone when a goalkeeper appeared at the FIFA World Cup wearing TechGrip!

As TechGrip continued to scale, it needed a sophisticated logistics partner that could keep pace with rising order volumes and hightened customer expectations. To meet that need, the brand partnered with CSS eLogix.

Supporting a Fast-Growing Global Brand

Through warehousing, inventory management, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery solutions, CSS eLogix has helped TechGrip build a strong and vital foundation. The partnership has allowed Techgrip to streamline fulfillment and focus more on product development, customer engagement, and continued growth.

In a recent review, TechGrip highlighted the important role CSS eLogix has played in its expansion. The company praised the team for its reliability, responsiveness, and commitment to consistent service.

TechGrip also noted that CSS eLogix has been especially valuable during peak sales periods, when order volumes increase sharply. The team’s ability to maintain efficient fulfillment and delivery standards has helped ensure a seamless customer experience across multiple markets. TechGrip thanked the CSS eLogix team for their dedication, professionalism, and ongoing support throughout the brand’s growth journey.

Empowering E-Commerce to Scale

For CSS eLogix, this feedback reflects its commitment to helping e-commerce businesses scale efficiently. By acting as an extension of its clients’ operations, CSS eLogix enables brands to focus on innovation and growth while leaving logistics in capable hands.

As TechGrip continues to strengthen its presence in the global goalkeeping community, its partnership with CSS eLogix remains a key part of its success story. Together, they show how strong logistics support can help ambitious brands reach new markets, achieve major milestones, and perform on the world stage.

THE GLOBAL LENS – TIACA REPORT HIGHLIGHTS SHIFT TOWARDS STRATEGY-LED SUSTAINABILITY IN AIR CARGO

The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has unveiled its 2026 Air Cargo Sustainability Insights Report at the Executive Summit in Warsaw, Poland. The report highlights a significant shift in the industry’s approach, with sustainability evolving from a regulatory requirement into a core element of long-term business strategy.

Although external pressure has fallen to its lowest level since 2021, internal commitment has reached an all-time high. The report shows that organisations now view sustainability as a driver of resilience, operational efficiency, and future growth, rather than simply an environmental obligation.

Leadership and Long-Term Planning Take Centre Stage

Executive support has emerged as the biggest driver of sustainability across the industry. According to the report:

• 95% of respondents said sustainability is actively supported by their CEO.
• 92% said company leadership views sustainability as a core strategic priority.
• 73% reported that sustainability is now embedded in their company’s culture or “DNA.”

The industry’s definition of sustainability is also evolving. Around 41% of organisations now frame it through an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) lens, while 33% include business resilience as a key sustainability objective. This reflects a broader focus on managing long-term risks while creating lasting value.

Turning Sustainability into Action

Climate adaptation is becoming an essential part of business planning. Nearly 68% of organisations have integrated climate resilience into their capital investment strategies, including investments in weather-resilient infrastructure and business continuity planning.

Companies are accelerating decarbonisation through practical measures, including reducing energy consumption, improving asset and vehicle utilisation, modernising fleets, and increasing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption to 40%, up eight percentage points from 2025.

Innovation Driving Long-Term Progress

Innovation and workforce development remain key sustainability priorities, with 98% of respondents highlighting training, education and digitalisation, while 96% identified innovation and continuous improvement as critical to long-term progress.

The report also reveals notable regional differences. Sustainability is most deeply embedded in company culture among organisations based in Asia (87%) and the Middle East and Africa (80%), compared with Europe (73%) and the Americas (44%).

Overall, the findings indicate that the air cargo sector is moving beyond compliance-driven sustainability. Instead, organisations are embedding sustainability into corporate decision-making, strengthening resilience, improving operational performance, and positioning themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving industry

THE GLOBAL LENS – CHINA’S GOBI DESERT RAIL PROJECT: ENGINEERING A NEW ERA OF GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY

China is building one of its most ambitious railway infrastructure projects through the challenging terrain of the Gobi Desert. It demonstrates how modern engineering can overcome some of the world’s harshest environmental conditions.

The railway will connect China’s Ganqimaodu region with Mongolia’s Gashuun Sukhait border crossing. Once completed, it is expected to move about 30 million metric tons of freight annually.

The China Gobi railway project represents a bigger shift in global trade, mineral supply chains, and energy security.

Engineering Solutions for Extreme Desert Conditions

Constructing a railway across the Gobi Desert requires overcoming extreme temperatures, shifting sands, and powerful winds. Engineers have adopted several innovative solutions to ensure safe, reliable operations:

Elevated rail systems: Reduces sand accumulation.
Concrete viaducts and pillars: Provide stability on shifting terrain.
Elevated tracks: Withstand extreme thermal expansion.
Smart monitoring systems: Track weather and structural health, enabling proactive maintenance.

These innovations enhance safety, reliability, and long-term operational performance.

Driving Trade and Regional Connectivity

The railway is part of a broader strategy to strengthen logistics links between China’s Inner Mongolia, Mongolia, and Russia. It will improve the movement of coal, copper, rare earth elements, and other key resources while reducing transport costs and delivery times.

Experts estimate that transporting bulk commodities from inland China to Russia through this corridor could lower logistics costs by up to 30% compared with traditional coastal shipping. Lower transport costs are expected to encourage greater cross-border trade and economic cooperation.

A Landmark Infrastructure Project

The Gobi Desert railway project comes nearly 70 years after the first China–Mongolia rail connection between Erenhot and Zamyn-Uud opened in 1956. As part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the project aims to strengthen international trade, improve regional connectivity, and deepen economic cooperation across
Eurasia.

Spanning approximately 1,800 kilometres, the railway is expected to take four to six years to complete. By combining advanced engineering with strategic planning, the project sets a new benchmark for infrastructure development. This corridor promises not only to bolster economic prosperity but also to redefine how major deserts and remote regions can be transformed into vibrant hubs of international commerce.

OFF THE CLOCK – LIGHTS, CAMERA, SUSPENSE! CSS GROUP ENJOYS EXCLUSIVE SCREENING OF DRISHYAM 3

The CSS Group recently treated its employees to a special movie experience with an exclusive screening of Drishyam 3 on 22 May 2026. Held at 5:45 PM on the film’s opening day, the event gave employees the opportunity to watch one of the year’s most anticipated Malayalam releases as part of a first-day, first-show experience.

A total of 166 employees from CSS Group, CSS eLogix, and CSS Kingston attended the screening. Colleagues from different teams came together to enjoy an evening of entertainment, making it a memorable event for everyone involved. Food and beverages were arranged for all attendees, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere before the movie began.

Directed and written by Jeethu Joseph, Drishyam 3 continues the story of Georgekutty, played by Mohanlal. The film explores the emotional and psychological consequences of past events, taking the franchise in a more intense direction. Themes of guilt, fear, and paranoia keep audiences engaged throughout the story. Widely praised by both audiences and critics, the film has been particularly celebrated for Mohanlal’s powerful performance and its suspense-filled narrative. The gripping storytelling and unexpected climax left a strong impression on viewers, making Drishyam 3 one of the most talked-about Malayalam films of the year.

The CSS audience echoed these sentiments. Employees shared overwhelmingly positive feedback after the screening, praising the film’s gripping narrative, strong performances, and ability to keep viewers guessing throughout. The overall response was clear—the movie delivered on expectations and provided an exciting cinematic experience.

Many attendees were especially impressed by the suspense and emotional depth of the story, with several commenting that they are already looking forward to a potential fourth instalment in the series.

Beyond the film itself, the screening gave employees a chance to take a break, catch up with colleagues, and enjoy an evening of suspense, snacks, and great company! The enthusiastic response and positive reviews from employees made the screening a resounding success and a memorable addition to the CSS Group’s calendar.

OFF THE CLOCK – RIDING THE WAVES: ALLEPPEY RIPPLES SET FOR AN EXCITING KCL SEASON 3

The excitement is building across CSS Group as our very own cricket franchise, Alleppey Ripples, gears up for an electrifying campaign in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) Season 3. Scheduled to be held from 20th August to 5th September at the Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, the tournament promises to be bigger, better, and more competitive than ever before.

KCL has rapidly established itself as Kerala’s premier T20 cricket tournament, providing a valuable platform for talented cricketers to showcase their skills and progress to higher levels, including the Kerala state team, the IPL, and national-level opportunities. As a result, players and cricket fans across the state are eagerly awaiting the start of the season.

Building Momentum for Season 3

Preparations are already underway, with the KCL Player Auction scheduled for 11th July. Franchises are busy strengthening their squads ahead of what promises to be an exciting tournament.

Alleppey Ripples have also initiated talent identification activities, with trials currently underway to select promising net bowlers. In addition, the franchise has partnered with Mallu Cricketer, one of Kerala’s leading cricket influencer platforms, to enhance fan engagement and connect with cricket enthusiasts across the state through a series of innovative campaigns and activities.

Fan Engagement and Growing Reach

The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) has planned several fan engagement initiatives this season, including the KCL Fundays Roadshow, KCA Mini Marathon, Turf Cricket Tournaments, and Voice of KCL in association with Red FM 93.5, bringing fans closer to the game than ever before.

The popularity of the league continues to grow, with KCL Season 2 recording over 40 million views across broadcast and digital platforms. With JioHotstar joining as a streaming partner alongside television coverage, Season 3 is expected to reach an even larger audience across Kerala and beyond.

A Unified Front

For the CSS Group family, Alleppey Ripples represent more than just a cricket team. The franchise reflects our values of teamwork, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

As the countdown to the opening match begins, we stand united in support of our players, coaching staff, and management team. We wish the Alleppey Ripples every success as they prepare to make their mark in KCL Season 3.

Get ready to ride the waves with Alleppey Ripples as we chase glory and bring exciting cricket to fans across Kerala.

OFF THE CLOCK – RISING TO THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE: MUHAMMED NIHAL CK’S DEBUT FOR INDIA

The Alleppey Ripples and Bishop Moore College have found a momentous reason to celebrate. In a historic milestone for regional sports, stellar volleyball player Muhammed Nihal CK has officially made his international debut, proudly representing India at the prestigious AVC Cup 2026. Organized by the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC), the AVC Cup stands as one of Asia’s premier national team volleyball tournaments. The highly anticipated event brings together elite volleyball nations from across the continent, serving as a fierce battleground for sporting excellence. For Nihal, stepping onto this grand stage is a massive leap forward, translating years of rigorous training into ultimate representation on the global map.

Participating in a tournament of this magnitude offers invaluable benefits for an athlete’s career like going head-to-head with Asia’s finest volleyball athletes, gaining critical international experience and contributing directly to India’s position in the official FIVB World Rankings.

Beyond the statistics, Nihal’s selection is a resounding testament to his unwavering dedication, relentless hard work, and deep commitment to athletic excellence. His transition from collegiate courts to the international arena highlights the robust sports culture thriving at Bishop Moore College and within the Alleppey Ripples franchise.

This landmark achievement does more than just elevate Nihal’s career; it serves as a powerful beacon of inspiration for aspiring volleyball players across the region. By proving that the path from local tournaments to the continental stage is achievable through grit and passion, Nihal has ignited a spark for the next generation of athletes. The CSS Group family extends its heartiest congratulations to Nihal as he spikes his way into sports history.