The Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ) in Chennai has long been a critical hub for trade and industrial growth in South India. Established in 1984, MEPZ has evolved into a major Special Economic Zone (SEZ), driving export-oriented industries, including automotive, engineering, pharmaceuticals, biotech, textiles, and most notably, gems and jewellery. With 62 SEZs and over 300 Export-Oriented Units (EOUs), MEPZ contributes significantly to Tamil Nadu’s economy, facilitating trade and employment. In the financial year 2023-24, the Tamil Nadu, Andaman, and Puducherry (TAP) region recorded an impressive export revenue of ₹1,82,000 crores, with MEPZ alone generating ₹6,428 crores and employing over 28,000 people.

Strategically located just 8 km from Chennai International Airport and 24 km from Chennai Port, MEPZ offers unparalleled connectivity to global trade routes via both air and sea. This makes it an ideal location for businesses dealing in high-value commodities, particularly bullion and jewellery, which require seamless and secure logistics solutions.

Recognizing the potential of this strategic location, Sequel Logistics, India’s leading precious logistics company, has set up its third and largest Free Trade Warehousing Zone (FTWZ) bullion vault at MEPZ. As the first precious logistics company with a presence at MEPZ, Sequel’s expansion is set to transform the regional bullion ecosystem by ensuring faster, more secure, and more efficient handling of high-value commodities.

This new 37,000 sq. ft. facility is a game changer for the industry, offering high-grade vaults built to international security standards. The FTWZ at MEPZ allows seamless global trade with duty-free storage and easy re-export options, significantly reducing operational costs for bullion traders, jewellery manufacturers, banks, and institutional investors.

Sequel’s presence at MEPZ enhances the speed and efficiency of bullion trade in South India. With Chennai serving as a gateway to India’s largest jewellery consumption market, this facility enables traders to receive their consignments within a day, reducing lead times and optimizing inventory management. The integration of cutting-edge technology ensures seamless customs clearance and real-time tracking of valuable shipments.

Speaking at the inauguration of the vault, Mr. Alex Paul Menon, IAS, Development Commissioner, MEPZ, stated, “We are delighted to welcome Sequel Logistics to MEPZ. This facility reinforces MEPZ’s commitment to fostering a world-class business ecosystem that supports high-value industries with best-in-class infrastructure and seamless logistics. The strategic location of MEPZ, coupled with our robust regulatory framework, makes it an ideal hub for global and domestic trade.”

Sequel Logistics has built a reputation for reliability and innovation in the precious logistics sector. With secure branches across 60 cities, 22 bank-approved vaults, and 400+ secured vehicles, Sequel’s network spans 700+ cities and 8,000+ pin codes. The company is an approved vault manager for the India International Bullion Exchange (IIBX), Domestic Gold Spot Exchange, MCX, NSCCL, and BSE. It is also a certified member of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), ensuring adherence to global best practices.

Mr. Rajkumar S, Founder & MD of Sequel Logistics, emphasized the significance of the new facility: “Sequel’s FTWZ at MEPZ-Chennai is truly a game changer, especially where speed and security are paramount in the precious commodity industry. MEPZ’s highly efficient, compliant, and process-driven approach makes it the best place to do business. We are proud to offer this world-class, super-efficient service facility to the bullion fraternity in India and beyond.”

With the establishment of its largest bullion vault at MEPZ, Sequel Logistics is reinforcing its role in strengthening India’s precious logistics infrastructure. By offering robust security, faster trade processing, and cost-effective storage solutions, Sequel is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the bullion industry. As the demand for gold and jewellery continues to grow, the strategic location of MEPZ, coupled with Sequel’s expertise, ensures an efficient supply chain for the Indian and global bullion markets.