Asia Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Asia Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market Analysis

The Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market size is estimated at USD 168.24 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 253.92 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 8.58% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics industry is experiencing unprecedented growth driven by its massive consumer base, which accounts for approximately 60% of the global population. The region's cold storage infrastructure is undergoing rapid transformation to meet evolving consumer preferences and industry demands. According to industry analysis, the Asia-Pacific region needs an additional 411 million cubic meters of new cold storage supply to reach the same cold storage capacity per urban capita as developed markets, presenting enormous opportunities for infrastructure development. This substantial gap in cold storage capacity has attracted significant investments from both domestic and international players, leading to the emergence of sophisticated cold chain logistics networks across major metropolitan areas.

The industry is witnessing a significant shift towards technological advancement and automation in cold chain logistics operations. In 2023, several major developments have reshaped the market landscape, including ESR's completion of its first integrated cold storage facility in China's Sichuan region and BlackRock's strategic investment in Chinese cold chain logistics operator Metcold's Opportunity Funds. These investments are particularly focused on implementing advanced technologies such as automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), real-time cold chain monitoring, and blockchain-based traceability solutions to enhance operational efficiency and maintain product integrity throughout the supply chain.

The market is experiencing robust expansion in Southeast Asian countries, with Vietnam emerging as a particularly dynamic market. In 2022, the country reported over 40 projects providing 460,000 square meters of cold chain logistics warehouse space, demonstrating the region's growing cold chain logistics infrastructure. This expansion has been further accelerated by strategic partnerships, exemplified by Lineage Logistics' 2023 joint venture with SK Logistics in Vietnam, which added nearly 400,000 square meters of cold storage capacity. These developments are crucial in addressing the increasing demand for temperature-controlled logistics services in the region's rapidly growing economies.

The Japanese market is leading technological innovation in the cold chain logistics sector, with significant developments in automation and efficiency improvements. In 2023, GLP announced the construction of two fully refrigerated warehouses in Japan with a total floor area of 55,000 square meters, incorporating state-of-the-art technology and design features. This expansion reflects the broader trend of modernizing cold chain logistics infrastructure across the region, with a particular focus on energy efficiency, sustainability, and advanced temperature control systems. The industry is also seeing increased adoption of smart sensors, IoT devices, and artificial intelligence for optimal temperature management and predictive maintenance, setting new standards for cold chain logistics operations across the Asia-Pacific region.

Asia Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market Trends

The Rising Aging Population is Making a Bigger Pharmaceutical Market

The Asia-Pacific region is experiencing unprecedented demographic shifts, with the elderly population growing at the fastest rate globally. Currently, there are 630 million individuals aged 60 and over in the region, representing 60% of the world's elderly population. This demographic transformation is particularly pronounced in countries like Japan, where one-third of the population is aged 60 or over, and South Korea, where this segment accounts for one-quarter of the population. The increasing elderly population has created substantial demand for pharmaceutical products requiring pharmaceutical cold chain solutions, from essential treatments such as vitamins and minerals to bulk compounds and specialized medications.

The pharmaceutical sector's growth is evident in the region's trade dynamics. Japan's pharmaceutical exports reached USD 7.44 billion in 2022, establishing its position as a key player in the global pharmaceutical trade. To support this growing demand, significant investments are being made in vaccine cold chain infrastructure. For instance, in July 2022, Tower Cold Chain extended its reach in the Asia-Pacific region by inaugurating a new hub in Incheon, South Korea, specifically designed to handle temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments. This expansion facilitates increased import and export volumes while providing reliable cold chain packaging solutions to pharmaceutical companies, airlines, and logistics providers.

Growing Demand for Frozen Food in the Region

The frozen food sector in Asia-Pacific is witnessing remarkable growth, driven by changing consumer preferences and lifestyle modifications. In Hong Kong, nearly 58% of consumers reported increased purchases of frozen food products, while Singapore showed a 40% increase in frozen food consumption. This shift is particularly notable in Thailand, where 92 new frozen food companies registered with the Commerce Ministry during the first nine months of 2022 – representing an 84% surge compared to the same period in 2021. These new companies are also showing larger capital investments, with combined registered capital reaching THB 299.3 million (USD 8.76 million) in 2022, compared to THB 78 million in 2021.

The transformation in consumer behavior is reflected in the increasing sophistication of frozen food logistics and services. Japanese investors dominate 6.51% of Thailand's frozen food segment, followed by Chinese investors at 1.86% and Singaporean investors at 1.46%. The sector has attracted substantial domestic and foreign investment even during challenging economic conditions, with annual revenues rising from approximately THB 7 billion in 2019 to more than THB 10.5 billion in 2022. This growth has led to increased demand for advanced cold supply chain solutions, including specialized storage facilities and temperature-controlled transportation networks to maintain product quality and safety throughout the supply chain.

Growth of Organized Food Retail

The organized food retail sector in Asia-Pacific is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the rapid expansion of modern retail formats and e-commerce platforms. Major retail chains are increasingly investing in sophisticated cold storage infrastructure to maintain product quality and extend shelf life. This shift is particularly evident in emerging markets where traditional wet markets are gradually being replaced by supermarkets and convenience stores. The trend is supported by substantial investments in infrastructure, with companies like ESR announcing major cold storage developments, including the acquisition of a 30% shareholding in its Kwai Chung cold storage logistics center development in 2023.

The modernization of retail infrastructure is accompanied by significant technological advancements in the cold chain sector. In Japan, for instance, the sales value of automated warehouses reached 139.13 billion Japanese yen in 2022, demonstrating the industry's commitment to technological innovation. This transformation is further supported by the development of integrated cold chain facilities that combine storage, processing, and distribution capabilities. For example, in Indonesia, DNR Corporation introduced ultra-cold chain storage infrastructure capable of maintaining temperatures as low as -80 degrees Celsius, representing a new benchmark in temperature-sensitive logistics capabilities. These developments are essential for supporting the growing network of organized retail outlets and ensuring consistent product quality across the supply chain.

Segment Analysis: By Service

Storage Segment in Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market

The storage segment continues to dominate the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market, commanding approximately 65% market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the increasing demand for cold storage facilities across the region, particularly in emerging economies like China and India. The segment's growth is supported by substantial investments in cold storage infrastructure, with many companies expanding their storage capacities to meet the rising demand from the food and pharmaceutical industries. The development of modern cold storage facilities equipped with advanced temperature monitoring systems and automation technologies has further strengthened this segment's market position. Additionally, the growing e-commerce sector and the increasing need for last-mile delivery solutions have led to the establishment of more cold storage facilities in urban areas, contributing to the segment's market leadership.

Transportation Segment in Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market

The transportation segment is experiencing the fastest growth in the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market, with a projected growth rate of approximately 9% during 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily attributed to the increasing demand for refrigerated transportation services across international borders and the rapid expansion of cold chain networks in developing countries. The segment is witnessing significant technological advancements, including the integration of IoT devices for real-time temperature monitoring and cold chain tracking systems. The rise in cross-border trade of perishable goods, particularly in the pharmaceutical and food sectors, has necessitated the development of more sophisticated transportation solutions. Furthermore, the growing adoption of electric refrigerated transportation vehicles and sustainable transportation solutions is reshaping the segment, as companies focus on reducing their carbon footprint while maintaining the integrity of temperature-sensitive products during transit.

Remaining Segments in Service Segmentation

The value-added services segment plays a crucial role in the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market by providing specialized solutions that complement basic storage and transportation services. This segment encompasses various specialized services including packaging, labeling, inventory management, and quality control services. The segment is particularly important in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, where stringent quality control and compliance requirements necessitate specialized handling and processing services. Value-added services are becoming increasingly important as companies seek to differentiate themselves in the competitive market landscape. The segment is also seeing innovation in areas such as blast freezing, temperature monitoring, and specialized handling services for different product categories, making it an integral part of the complete cold chain solution offering.

Segment Analysis: By Temperature Type

Chilled Segment in Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market

The chilled segment continues to dominate the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market, commanding approximately 68% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is driven by the increasing demand for fresh produce, dairy products, and temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals across the region. The segment's growth is further supported by the expanding organized retail sector, particularly in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations, where modern retail formats require sophisticated temperature-controlled supply chains. Additionally, the rising consumer preference for fresh rather than frozen products, coupled with growing health consciousness and demand for premium fresh food products, has strengthened the chilled segment's market position. The segment has also benefited from substantial investments in cold chain infrastructure and technological advancements in temperature monitoring and control systems.

Frozen Segment in Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market

The frozen segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market, projected to grow at approximately 8% through 2024-2029. This accelerated growth is primarily attributed to the expanding frozen food industry, particularly in emerging economies where changing consumer lifestyles and increasing urbanization are driving demand for convenience foods. The segment is witnessing significant technological advancements in freezing techniques and storage solutions, enabling better preservation of food quality and nutritional value. The growth is further supported by the rising popularity of frozen ready-to-eat meals, increasing exports of frozen seafood and meat products, and the expanding quick-service restaurant chains across the region. Additionally, the pharmaceutical sector's growing need for ultra-low temperature storage, particularly for certain vaccines and biologics, is contributing to the segment's rapid expansion.

Remaining Segments in Temperature Type Segmentation

The ambient temperature segment plays a crucial role in the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market, particularly for products requiring controlled room temperature storage. This segment is essential for handling various pharmaceutical products, certain food items, and industrial goods that need protection from extreme temperature variations while not requiring refrigeration or freezing. The segment has gained importance with the growing pharmaceutical trade in the region and the increasing need for sophisticated storage solutions for temperature-sensitive but not refrigerated products. The ambient segment complements the cold chain ecosystem by providing versatile storage options for products that require protection from temperature extremes while maintaining stable room temperature conditions.

Segment Analysis: Market Segmentation

Storage Segment in Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market

The storage segment continues to dominate the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market, commanding approximately 65% market share in 2024. This segment's prominence is driven by the increasing demand for temperature-controlled warehousing facilities across the region, particularly in emerging economies like China and India. The segment's growth is supported by significant investments in cold storage infrastructure, implementation of advanced warehouse management systems, and the expansion of organized retail chains requiring sophisticated storage solutions. Major players are focusing on developing state-of-the-art cold storage facilities equipped with automation and temperature monitoring technologies to meet the growing demands of the food and pharmaceutical industries. The segment's strength is further reinforced by the rising adoption of multi-temperature storage solutions and the increasing need for specialized storage requirements in the healthcare and biotechnology sectors.

Transportation Segment in Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market

The transportation segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market, with projections indicating robust growth of approximately 9% from 2024 to 2029. This accelerated growth is primarily attributed to the expanding network of refrigerated transportation vehicles and the increasing adoption of advanced temperature monitoring systems during transit. The segment is witnessing significant technological advancements, including the integration of IoT devices and real-time tracking solutions for better temperature control and monitoring during transportation. The growth is further fueled by the rising demand for interstate and cross-border transportation of temperature-sensitive products, particularly in the pharmaceutical and fresh food sectors. Companies are increasingly investing in specialized refrigerated container vehicles and developing innovative last-mile delivery solutions to meet the evolving needs of e-commerce and quick commerce platforms.

Remaining Segments in Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market

The value-added services segment plays a crucial role in completing the cold chain logistics ecosystem in the Asia-Pacific region. This segment encompasses various specialized services including packaging, labeling, quality control, and inventory management specifically designed for temperature-sensitive products. The segment is gaining importance due to the increasing demand for customized solutions in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Value-added services are becoming increasingly sophisticated with the integration of digital technologies and automation solutions. The segment is particularly vital in supporting the growing e-commerce sector, where specialized handling and processing of perishable logistics require expert attention and customized solutions. These services are essential in maintaining product integrity throughout the cold chain and ensuring compliance with various regulatory requirements across different markets in the region.

Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market Geography Segment Analysis

Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market in China

China dominates the Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics landscape, commanding approximately 57% of the market share in 2024. The country's cold chain infrastructure has evolved significantly, driven by accelerating urbanization, increased awareness of food safety, and changing dietary preferences. The government has implemented several strategic initiatives, including the development of 150 national cold chain logistics bases and the establishment of 30 national and 70 regional cold chain logistics facilities for agricultural products during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). The cold chain sector has witnessed substantial technological advancement, incorporating big data, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence applications. Despite its market leadership, China's cold chain logistics network represents a relatively small portion of the overall logistics industry, with only about 19% of the market having access to cold chain technologies, compared to 85% in developed markets. This gap presents significant opportunities for growth and improvement in the sector, particularly in reducing food wastage and enhancing the efficiency of temperature-controlled supply chains.

Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market in India

India's cold chain logistics market is projected to grow at approximately 10% annually from 2024 to 2029, making it the fastest-growing market in the region. The country's cold chain sector is experiencing rapid transformation, supported by government initiatives such as the National Logistics Policy and the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana. As one of the world's largest producers of perishable goods, India's cold chain infrastructure spans across various segments, including pack houses, cold storage warehouses, and temperature-controlled retail outlets. The sector is witnessing increased investment in modern technologies and automation, particularly in major agricultural states. The government's emphasis on reducing post-harvest losses and improving farm-to-fork connectivity has led to the development of integrated cold chain projects across the country. The market is seeing growing participation from both domestic and international players, with a focus on developing multi-commodity cold storage facilities and enhancing last-mile delivery capabilities. The sector's growth is further supported by the rising demand from the pharmaceutical industry and the expanding organized retail sector.

Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market in Japan

Japan's cold chain logistics market exemplifies technological sophistication and operational efficiency in the region. The country's cold chain infrastructure reaches every corner of Japan, supported by corporations possessing advanced quick-freezing and quick-thawing technology, innovative packaging solutions, and precise temperature control management systems. Japanese logistics providers are actively expanding their presence in Southeast Asia, leveraging their expertise to establish high-quality cold chain operations in response to the region's growing demand for fresh food. The market is characterized by strong domestic consumption of chilled and frozen foods, driven by modern lifestyle changes and the increasing popularity of convenience stores. Japanese companies are also taking a leading role in developing sustainable cold chain solutions, focusing on energy efficiency and environmental conservation. The sector benefits from robust integration with the country's sophisticated retail network and strong quality control standards, particularly in serving the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

Asia-Pacific Cold Chain Logistics Market in Other Countries

The cold chain logistics market in other Asia-Pacific countries, including South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, demonstrates diverse development patterns and opportunities. South Korea's market is driven by its strong e-commerce sector and overnight delivery business, while Australia benefits from its well-established infrastructure and growing export market for temperature-sensitive products. Indonesia's market is expanding rapidly due to increasing domestic consumption and government support for cold chain infrastructure development. Thailand is positioning itself as a regional cold chain hub, particularly for the food processing industry, while the Philippines is focusing on modernizing its cold chain infrastructure to support its growing food export sector. These markets are characterized by varying levels of technological adoption, infrastructure development, and regulatory frameworks, creating a dynamic landscape for cold chain logistics services. The development of these markets is further supported by increasing cross-border trade, rising consumer demands for fresh and frozen products, and growing investment in cold chain infrastructure.