2025 LOOK AHEAD

HORIZON SCANNING – THE TRENDS SET TO SHAPE APAC SUPPLY CHAIN AND LOGISTICS

Looking ahead into 2025, it is clear that supply chains and logistics will continue to be disrupted and shaped by many factors keeping the industry on its toes in 2024.

Among them, technology is increasingly taking centre stage. Geopolitical tensions are continuing to disrupt and reshape supply chains.

In Asia Pacific (APAC) – a region known for its vast geographic diversity, rapid growth and regulatory and political complexity – unique transport and distribution challenges will bring a layer of intricacies.

Those who embrace emerging trends and invest in them are likely to be well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly complex and dynamic global marketplace.

Which emerging technology will most help your business build resilience in 2025?

AI for optimising manufacturing
Machine learning for demand forecasting, inventory management and route optimisation

10 FACTORS WE ANTICIPATE WILL SHAPE APAC LOGISTICS IN 2025:

Here are 10 factors we anticipate will shape APAC logistics in 2025:

1. Continued shift away from China

Supply chain dynamics will continue to shift as companies seek to diversify production beyond China. This trend – driven by geopolitical tensions, trade disputes and the need for greater supply chain resilience – will continue to reshape the landscape, particularly in Southeast Asia. Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia are all emerging as attractive alternatives and benefitting from foreign investment in their manufacturing and logistics infrastructure.

As APAC's supply chains advance, these Southeast Asian nations are poised to play an ever-more important role in global production and logistics networks.

2. Ongoing uncertainty and diversification driven by geopolitics

The outcomes of key elections last year, including the priorities of the new US administration, will be crucial in shaping international trade policies and supply chain dynamics. Changes in political leadership in major economies have the potential to reshape trade relationships, tariff structures and regulatory environments. And the ripple effects can influence investment decisions, market access and supply chain configurations around the world.

This is driving a trend of diversification and reshaping supply networks across APAC.

3. More use of AI and automation

As emerging technologies are increasingly adopted by businesses across APAC, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play an important role in optimising manufacturing and distribution workflows. Machine learning algorithms will enhance demand forecasting, inventory management and route optimisation, leading to more efficient and cost-effective operations.

Companies that lean into these technologies will be better positioned to navigate supply chain disruptions and adapt to shifting market conditions, ultimately, fostering a more resilient and agile supply chain environment.

Many companies in the region are adopting more agile strategies and preparing contingency plans to adapt to any policy shifts. Businesses are building resilience, exploring alternative sourcing options and strengthening their presence in multiple markets to mitigate risks associated with geopolitical volatility.

4. Tracking with the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain

The increasing integration of IoT and blockchain is reshaping supply chain management. In APAC, IoT devices are already being deployed to enable real-time tracking and monitoring of goods. This is particularly crucial given the region's vast geographic spread and varying levels of infrastructure development.

Blockchain technology is also gaining traction, especially in industries where provenance is critical, such as pharmaceuticals, luxury goods and food. It is already being used to enhance transparency and traceability in seafood supply chains in some APAC countries, addressing concerns about food fraud and sustainability.

5. Data as a strategic asset

Data will become an even more valuable resource for supply chain and logistics companies, with investment in advanced analytics used increasingly to generate actionable insights. This will enable more accurate demand forecasting, predictive maintenance and optimisation of inventory levels.

6. Continued focus on sustainability

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations will continue to gain prominence, with all operators facing increased regulatory pressure and consumer demand for transparency. Companies will need to provide more detailed information about their sourcing practices, working conditions and environmental impact. There’s also a growing focus on Scope 3 emissions – those generated throughout the supply chain that are often trickier to track and manage.

7. Increased focus on multimodal logistics

The complexity and diversity of APAC’s infrastructure and economic landscapes necessitate multiple transportation modes, including rail, road, sea and air. This approach enhances operational efficiency and reinforces the benefit of using a single logistics supplier capable of providing comprehensive visibility and cost-effectiveness across the supply chain.

By integrating multimodal logistics, businesses can more effectively manage the diverse challenges presented by fragmented markets in APAC and varying infrastructure maturity levels.

Companies will need to provide more detailed information about their sourcing practices, working conditions and environmental impact."

8. Improved infrastructure will unlock the region’s potential

APAC is a complicated patchwork of various stages of infrastructure development, with disparities in quality and accessibility that affect supply chain management. Advanced economies like Japan and Singapore boast world-class infrastructure while developing nations in parts of Southeast Asia struggle with underdeveloped transportation networks and logistics facilities.

This imbalance creates unique challenges for businesses operating across the region, requiring flexible and adaptive supply chain strategies. Looking ahead, there will be a greater need to leverage integrated services and create more seamless connections between well-developed and emerging markets, tapping into the region’s full potential.

9. Optimising the middle mile

The rapid growth of the e-commerce and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors has tightened the focus on the middle mile, and this is set to continue. With the demand for faster and more efficient delivery increasing, businesses are intensifying their efforts to streamline the movement of goods.

Automation solutions can enhance warehouse operations and sorting processes, while advanced route optimisation algorithms can minimise transport costs and delivery times. These are particularly useful in the complex and diverse APAC market and will continue to be in focus throughout this year.

10. Creating an omnichannel experience

Achieving an omnichannel experience is becoming vital to meet evolving consumer expectations. Integration is key, and with its diverse consumer base and rapid technological adoption, APAC is at the forefront of this transformation. Retailers are investing in agile supply chains and leveraging data analytics to anticipate consumer needs, examining each touchpoint in the customer journey.

The future of supply chains will be characterised by greater resilience, agility and sustainability, driven by data and innovative technologies. In 2025, expect a wealth of opportunities in APAC as supply chains and logistics continue to evolve.