There is welcome news for businesses operating between India and China. Amidst Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Delhi and the BRICS summit, China Southern Airlines has announced the resumption of direct flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi after a hiatus of nearly six years.
Guangzhou is considered a major manufacturing and export hub in China. Thousands of Indian businesses both small and large travel to Guangzhou to source a wide range of goods, including textiles, electronics, auto parts, and plastics. Businesses also participate in the Canton Fair held there. Travel time reduced from 12–18 hours
Due to the suspension of direct flights between India and China over the past few years, Indian businesses had to rely on connecting flights via Hong Kong, Bangkok, or Malaysia, a journey that often took 12 to 18 hours.
With the resumption of direct flights, the travel time between Guangzhou and Delhi will be reduced to approximately 5 to 6 hours. This will save business time and alleviate travel-related hassles.
Benefits For Small Businesses Too
Previously, connecting flights resulted in higher expenses for businesses regarding tickets and travel. The introduction of direct flights is expected to lower business travel costs. This could particularly benefit Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) looking to travel directly to China to meet their suppliers. Supply Chain to Become More Efficient
Direct connectivity with Guangzhou can streamline supply chains and business travel. Businesses will be able to travel to China, inspect product samples, negotiate with suppliers, and return all within a shorter timeframe.
Reduced travel and logistics costs could also impact the Indian market. This is likely to lower the overall cost of goods imported from China, potentially benefiting both businesses and consumers in the market.
