Under the auspice of the Ministry of Planning and Investment, the summit opens at 8.30am at the JW Marriott Saigon Hotel. The event will be streamed on Facebook, YouTube, and the online platforms of Vietnam Investment Review.

With its strong growth trajectory, the logistics industry has been playing a vital role in Vietnam’s integration into the global economy, while simultaneously helping Vietnamese enterprises expand their operational reach and enhance their competitiveness in the international market.

However, along with these opportunities, the logistics sector is also facing significant challenges, particularly in the context of digital transformation and the rapid pace of technological change. Embracing new trends, improving infrastructure, and enhancing supply chain management capabilities are crucial factors for the logistics industry to achieve breakthroughs and maintain its competitive edge.

The event will discuss in-depth the industry's most pressing issues such as modernising logistics infrastructure, enhancing supply chain efficiency, promoting digital transformation, and developing new logistics business models through two discussion sessions.

Session one, on confronting new challenges, focus on three issues. The first is about the new trends and global changes, in which experts will analyse the impact of climate change, trade wars, and shifting economic policies on the logistics industry. They will also analyse changes in global trade flows, the consequences on supply chains and transportation, and customer demand amid global turbulence and intense competition.

The second aspect is about logistics infrastructure challenges. Participants will analyse the current state of logistics infrastructure, including seaports, airports, road networks, and warehousing systems, as well as issues in expanding and upgrading infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the industry.

The third factor will see analysis cover the causes and consequences of supply chain disruptions, including pandemics, natural disasters, and geopolitical conflicts. Threats related to data security, cyberattacks, and cargo safety, as well as preventive measures and responses to disruptions, will also be delved into.

In particular, the keynote speaker for this discussion session, Vietnam SuperPort CEO Yap Kwong Weng, will provide an overview on the future of Vietnam's logistics industry, and adapting and thriving in the global context.

At the second session, experts and businesses will focus on discussing three other top issues.

First, speakers will look at leveraging the integrative potential of big data, blockchain, and AI to optimise supply chains and improve logistics operational efficiency. They will also cover investing in tech infrastructure, building data analytics capabilities and AI applications, fostering a culture of innovation, and success stories from companies that have implemented digital transformation in their logistics operations.

Secondly, experts will discuss applying new technologies to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of logistics infrastructure, such as intelligent transportation systems and automated warehouse management. They will also cover investment strategies in smart infrastructure to prepare for long-term growth.

The final discussion will revolve around restructuring supply chains for green and sustainable development. This focuses on strategies for restructuring and optimising supply chains to enhance flexibility and resilience, such as diversifying supply sources and establishing regional distribution centres; and optimising transportation networks to minimise costs and delivery times.

This last section will also attempt to cover methods and technologies for building environmentally friendly supply chains, reducing carbon emissions, and using renewable energy in transportation and warehouse management.

On the sidelines of the summit, the Organising Committee will also set aside space and time for activities to introduce new technologies, logistics solutions, investment networking, and sharing information among partners.

In addition, VIR and Dong Tam Group will arrange a site tour for businesspeople to visit and learn about Long An International Port and its warehouse/factory models. The tour programme will take place on Friday, November 1.