In a strategic expansion move signaling its deepening presence in India, Uber has announced a partnership with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to enter the rapidly growing B2B logistics sector. As reported in the article “Uber Partners ONDC To Foray Into B2B Logistics” by StartupNews.fyi, the collaboration marks a significant shift in Uber’s operations in the country, where it has primarily focused on ride-hailing and consumer-facing services.
The partnership will initially focus on integrating Uber’s logistics capabilities with the ONDC’s open, interoperable network, which is designed to democratize digital commerce in India by promoting fair competition and reducing customer acquisition costs for sellers. By aligning with the ONDC framework, Uber aims to facilitate delivery services for small and medium enterprises, helping to bridge critical gaps in supply chain infrastructure.
Industry analysts point to the timing of the announcement as strategic. With India’s digital commerce landscape undergoing rapid transformation under the ONDC initiative, logistics players—both incumbent and new—are racing to stake a claim in what is anticipated to become one of the world’s largest digitally-enabled marketplaces. Uber’s entry through this open network not only strengthens its diversified business model but also reinforces its commitment to long-term operations in India.
This move also positions Uber in direct competition with established B2B logistics players, including startups and traditional logistics providers that have integrated with ONDC. However, Uber’s global expertise in mobility, technology infrastructure, and real-time tracking capabilities may provide it with a competitive edge as it scales its B2B logistics services in India.
Uber has not yet disclosed specific operational details, such as the cities where the service will be piloted or the nature of goods it plans to transport under the B2B model. However, a company spokesperson indicated that the initiative will begin with limited-scale pilots before being rolled out more broadly.
The ONDC platform, backed by the Indian government, has been steadily expanding its network of partners in the retail, food delivery, and logistics domains. By bringing on board global players like Uber, the initiative appears to be gaining momentum and international credibility.
As the digital infrastructure of India continues to evolve, the entry of tech giants into B2B logistics via open networks like ONDC reflects a broader trend of market decentralization and digital enablement. It remains to be seen how Uber’s relatively late but ambitious foray into this space will influence existing dynamics and shape the future of logistics across the subcontinent.
