Conference on “Innovation Roadmap Towards a Smart and Sustainable Supply Chain”

On August 3, the conference “Innovation Roadmap Towards a Smart and Sustainable Supply Chain” was organized by VINEXAD, WBS Systems and Solutions Co., Ltd., University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH), and TYVY Co., Ltd. as part of the Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition (VILOG) at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC). The event gathered leading experts in technology and logistics to discuss specific solutions for sustainable logistics, including the use of renewable energy, the adoption of green production models in transportation, and sustainable supply chain management.

Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition 2024 is expected to surpass its previous success with a larger and more diverse scale. In 2023, the event attracted nearly 25,000 visitors, demonstrating its strong appeal to domestic and international logistics businesses. VILOG 2024 features 400 booths from over 300 companies representing 20 countries and territories, fostering global connectivity in the logistics sector. The exhibition focuses on key areas, including Transportation & Freight Forwarding, Smart Warehousing and Cold Chain, Material Handling Equipment, Logistics Technology Applications, Industrial Park and Port Infrastructure, providing a comprehensive view of the industry’s latest advancements and innovations.

According to Introspective Market Research, the green logistics market was valued at USD 1.3 trillion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 2.47 trillion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.35% from 2023 to 2030. By the end of 2023, Vietnam’s modern warehousing supply had reached nearly 3.9 million square meters of floor space, with an annual growth rate of 23% from 2020 to 2023. Currently, approximately 75% of Vietnam’s warehouse market is dominated by foreign-invested enterprises, according to FiinGroup’s report “Vietnam Warehousing: The Rapid Expansion of Foreign Investors.”

Recognizing the strong growth potential of the logistics industry, the Prime Minister issued Decision 882/QD-TTg 2022, approving the National Green Growth Action Plan for the 2021–2030 period. The plan sets out objectives for greening economic sectors, identifying six groups of tasks and activities, and outlining 18 specific tasks within the transportation and logistics services sector.

The conference featured distinguished experts from WBS Systems and Solutions Co., Ltd., TYVY Co., Ltd., and UEH University. In his opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Trường Thịnh, Director of the Institute of Smart and Interactive Technology at UEH, emphasized the importance of training a workforce equipped with both fundamental logistics skills and a mindset for sustainable development. He highlighted that integrating sustainability principles into the supply chain is crucial for the industry’s long-term growth.

The discussions also explored smart logistics and strategies to enhance supply chain sustainability. A key topic was the application of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and drones in transportation and warehousing. While these technologies promise improved efficiency, they also come with high operational costs.

At the conference, Dr. Đinh Bình Khánh from the UEH Institute of Intelligent & Interactive Technologies presented insights on the application of robotics and AI in warehousing and logistics. He noted that these technologies not only boost productivity and operational efficiency but also create new business opportunities while posing fresh challenges in management and implementation.

In addition to robotics and AI, Dr. Trịnh Đức Cường from the UEH Institute of Intelligent & Interactive Technologies discussed the transformative impact of IoT in warehouse management. He emphasized that IoT connects devices and objects within a warehouse, creating an intelligent system that enables precise tracking and management of goods. Businesses can leverage IoT to optimize inventory management, streamline inbound and outbound logistics, and minimize errors.

For example, IoT sensors can monitor temperature and humidity levels in warehouses, ensuring the quality of perishable goods. When combined with robotics and AI, IoT offers comprehensive solutions that enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness in the market. Experts from WBS Systems and Solutions Co., Ltd., TYVY Co., Ltd., and DHL also shared insights on trade credit insurance as a tool for risk mitigation in logistics, the benefits of green standards, and the role of fulfillment centers in driving Vietnam’s e-commerce growth.

The Vietnam International Logistics Exhibition 2024 concluded successfully, marking a significant step in advancing the logistics industry in Vietnam. With strong participation from businesses, experts, and investors, the event provided a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, technological updates, and partnership opportunities.

Emerging technologies such as robotics, AI, and IoT are increasingly proving their value in optimizing supply chains, enhancing efficiency, and promoting sustainability. However, to fully harness these technologies, businesses must invest in workforce training, develop advanced information systems, and upgrade infrastructure.

– Institute of Intelligent and Interactive Technology, UEH