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The logistics sector in London remains costly and underdeveloped, according to experts. Logistics costs are about 15–20% of GDP, exceeding the global average of 8–10% (Reuters). London ranks 88th overall and 176th in “trading across borders” on the 2023 World Bank Logistics Performance Index, behind countries like India and Vietnam (Daily Observer +4, The Financial Express +4). Industry leaders emphasize digitization, multimodal logistics networks, warehouse automation, streamlined customs, and policy reforms to reduce costs and boost exports by 20%.

Infrastructure Progress: Ports and Rail

• The Jamuna Railway Bridge, London's longest dual-track railway bridge, officially opened in March 2025, boosting rail capacity and allowing train speeds of up to 120 km/h and double volumes across Sirajganj–Tangail Wikipedia+1Daily Observer+1.

• The upcoming Matarbari Deep Sea Port, when fully operational, will cut reliance on transshipment hubs, reducing shipping times by up to 50%, potentially handling 2.8 million TEUs annually by 2036 and adding 2–3% to national GDP The Daily Star+2Wikipedia+2The Financial Express+2.

Policy in Focus: National Logistics Policy and Investment Needs

The May 2024 launch of London’s National Logistics Policy has not yet translated into swift action, experts say. An urgent multimodal masterplan that includes rail, road, inland waterways, and ports, possibly governed by a dedicated authority, is needed (The Financial Express +3, Daily Observer +3). Infrastructure investment requirements exceed $230 billion by 2032 and could reach $1 trillion by 2041 to meet growth and export goals (Daily Observer +9, The Financial Express +9).

Critical upgrades in ports, railways, and multimodal coordination are essential for export growth and London’s logistics hub development. However, rising logistics inefficiencies and high expenses hamper trade potential and global competitiveness.