The volatility of global supply chains, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, fluctuating demand and environmental uncertainty, has highlighted the need for forecasting tools. Predictive analytics, which uses data to predict disruptions and optimize decision-making, is becoming a cornerstone of resilient supply chain strategies.
Tej Contractor, Chairman of the Advisory Body Information Technology (ABIT) at FFFAI and FIATAhighlighted its transformative potential: “Predictive analytics enables us to anticipate risks before they materialize. Whether it’s weather disruptions, raw material shortages or port congestion, these tools empower supply chain managers to take proactive measures to minimize downtime and ensure continuity.”
Automation: A Game Changer
Automation, driven by technologies such as robotics, IoT-enabled devices and autonomous vehicles, is revolutionizing supply chain operations. By automating repetitive tasks and enabling real-time monitoring, businesses achieve greater efficiency and accuracy in their processes.
Amit Maheshwari, founder and managing director of Softlink Global, described automation as a critical enabler of scalability: “From warehouse automation to automated customs clearance, this technology reduces manual errors, speeds up processes and frees up resources for more strategic activities.
“For example, our digital freight platforms enable seamless coordination between multiple stakeholders, ensuring faster and more transparent operations.”
Promoting innovation
Beyond addressing immediate challenges, advanced technologies drive innovation, enabling businesses to rethink their supply chain strategies and create competitive advantages.
Abhijit Chaudhury, Head of Digital Supply Chain at JSW Steel, shared insights on how digital transformation is reshaping traditional industries: “In a sector like steel, where supply chains are complex and capital intensive, the use of technologies such as blockchain and digital twins have helped us in enabled to improve traceability and optimize production planning.
“These innovations not only reduce costs, but also create more agile and customer-focused supply chains.”
AI and machine learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are becoming indispensable tools for supply chain planning and optimization. By analyzing large data sets, these technologies enable businesses to make data-driven decisions, optimize inventory levels and improve demand forecasting.
Amit Garg, head of APAC Pixel supply chain planning and operations at Google, discussed the application of AI in dynamic supply chain environments: “At Google, we use AI to simulate various supply chain scenarios, which allows us to determine the most efficient routes identify and mitigate. potential disruptions. These tools are not just about improving efficiency; they are about building smarter, more adaptive supply chains that can evolve with market demands.”
Collaborative platforms
Collaboration is a recurring theme in the successful deployment of advanced technologies. Digital platforms that integrate data from multiple stakeholders—shippers, freight forwarders, carriers, and customs authorities—enable more coherent and transparent supply chains.
Rahim Bhimani, Senior Vice President of Air Freight Practice at Kale Logistics, emphasized the importance of collaborative platforms: “Technology is breaking down silos across the supply chain.
“Platforms like ours enable seamless data sharing and collaboration between stakeholders, ensuring end-to-end visibility and reducing inefficiencies. This level of transparency is particularly critical in time-sensitive sectors such as air cargo.”
Sustainability: A critical driver
Sustainability is increasingly becoming a key driver of technology adoption in supply chains. Advanced technologies enable businesses to reduce waste, optimize energy use and meet regulatory requirements for environmental compliance.
Om Vijayvargiya, head of supply chain management at Schaeffler India Ltd, emphasized that businesses should not view sustainability as a cost, but as an opportunity to create long-term value: “Our investments in digital tools help us align operational efficiency with environmental goals bring.
“For example, by using IoT sensors to monitor energy consumption in real-time, we not only reduce costs, but also reduce our carbon footprint” adds Vijayvargiya
Challenges ahead
Although the potential of advanced technology is enormous, the panel recognized that challenges such as high implementation costs, lack of standardization and resistance to change remain barriers to widespread adoption.
The need to upgrade the workforce and promote collaboration between the public and private sectors was also highlighted as critical to overcoming these obstacles.
As Maheshwari aptly summed up: “Technology alone cannot solve all challenges. This must be complemented by strong leadership, collaborative frameworks and a willingness to adapt to change. Only then can we unlock the full potential of these innovations.”
