As global trade continues to expand, the logistics and air cargo industry faces increasing pressure to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and adapt to the demands of a digital age.
Liu Xinkun highlighted the necessity of digital transformation in cargo handling and management. “The days of paper trails and manual processes are over,” Liu asserted. “To remain competitive, the cargo industry must fully embrace digitalization to enhance transparency, reduce errors, and accelerate supply chain operations.”
Liu emphasised how automated systems and digital twins are already revolutionizing air cargo terminals. “At CIMC, we’ve implemented real-time cargo tracking and simulation tools that give operators precise insights into every step of the logistics process. This not only improves efficiency but also builds trust across the supply chain,” he added.
Enhancing standards
Kate Meng of IATA brought a global perspective to the conversation, emphasizing the role of industry standards in facilitating digital adoption. “Digitalization must be a collective effort,” Meng said. “At IATA, we focus on creating standardized solutions like e-freight and digital air waybills to ensure that every player in the cargo ecosystem speaks the same digital language.”
Meng also discussed the challenges of regional disparity in digital adoption, particularly in North Asia. “While some markets are highly advanced, others are still catching up. Our goal is to bridge this gap by offering scalable and adaptable technologies that can be implemented across varying levels of digital maturity,” she explained.
Driving force
Jason Li, representing Li & Li Data Analysis Company, highlighted the transformative role of data analytics in the cargo sector. “Data is the new oil of the logistics industry,” he remarked. “By analyzing historical and real-time data, we can predict trends, optimize routes, and mitigate risks more effectively than ever before.”
Li also pointed to the value of machine learning and artificial intelligence in enhancing decision-making. “AI-powered systems allow us to identify inefficiencies and proactively resolve them before they become issues,” he said. “This is particularly useful in peak periods when managing cargo flows becomes more complex.”
Integration challenges
Jim Li, CEO of iTran Systems, addressed one of the most pressing issues in cargo digitalization: integration. “The biggest challenge isn’t the technology itself but integrating it into existing systems and workflows,” Jim stated. He elaborated on how iTran Systems specializes in creating modular digital solutions that can seamlessly fit into traditional setups.
Jim also emphasiaed the importance of user-friendly interfaces. “Technology adoption often fails because end users find it too complex. At iTran, we prioritise intuitive design and robust training programs to ensure smooth transitions for our clients,” he explained.
Road ahead
The panellists agreed that the future of cargo logistics lies in collaboration and continuous innovation. “No single organization can do this alone,” Meng noted. “We need partnerships between technology providers, regulatory bodies, and industry players to create a truly interconnected logistics ecosystem.”
As Li succinctly put it, “The future of cargo is digital. But the journey to get there is a collective one, and it starts today.”
