Jordaj Zuleta analyzes how emerging technologies are shaping the future of the logistics sector in Chile and the region
Digital transformation has become a central topic in today’s world, especially due to its impact on various industries, including logistics. As part of Trans-Port 2024, held in Valparaíso, Jordaj Zuleta, Senior Manager at Accenture in Chile, shared with MundoMaritimo his analysis of the current state of this transformation in the logistics sector, exploring both technological trends and future perspectives for the integration of new tools. Zuleta highlighted the progress made and the challenges that remain, emphasizing the need to balance innovation with sustainability.
Current State of Digital Transformation
Technological maturity in Chilean logistics presents a diverse landscape, with notable advances in some sectors, but still a long way to go in others. According to Zuleta, “we have ports, mainly the larger ones, that are at a very early stage compared to other industries”. On the other hand, he added, “there are also ports where even the forms have not been properly digitized”.
This disparity reflects particular challenges for smaller ports and logistics centers, which must adapt to greater technological complexity with limited resources. “The challenge remains for these smaller ports or logistics centers, which have to adapt to greater complexities due to cost-efficiency issues”, he explained.
Emerging Technological Trends
Zuleta highlighted a series of technological trends that are transforming logistics processes and improving their efficiency. Among them, he mentioned:
- Internet of Things (IoT): A key tool for improving connectivity and real-time traceability.
- 5G Communication Networks: These networks enable faster data transmission, which positively impacts decision-making.
- Generative Intelligence: According to Zuleta, “It allows the processing of unstructured information, such as comments and observations from people”. Technologies like ChatGPT are demonstrating their usefulness in this area, as users can interact directly with the tools to ask questions and receive real-time responses.
- Advanced Analytics (APC): “It’s important to integrate analytics into control systems to automate these logistics centers”, Zuleta noted. This approach not only improves efficiency but also reduces operational costs.
AI and Sustainability in Logistics
One of the most relevant aspects of digital transformation in logistics is the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on sustainability. Zuleta pointed out that current technologies are helping to reduce energy consumption and improve waste management, which is crucial for the sector’s decarbonization.
“The major areas of impact have to do with being more efficient and more sustainable for the planet”, he stated. As the industry progresses, sustainability becomes a key factor in ensuring long-term viability. “Profitability will no longer be sustainable if the health of communities, people, and the environment in general is not safeguarded”.
Blockchain and IoT: The Traceability of the Future
Finally, Zuleta emphasized the fundamental role of emerging technologies such as blockchain and IoT in logistics. In the case of blockchain, he explained, “It is essential for traceability and verifying that, for example, a component being transported from point A to point B meets certain conditions”. This includes ensuring ethical practices, such as preventing the use of child labor or monitoring responsible resource consumption.
The IoT, on the other hand, improves real-time traceability, which is crucial for making quick decisions in unforeseen situations. “For example, if a transfer node gets blocked, IoT allows for efficient redistribution of the material until it reaches its final destination”, Zuleta noted.
A Bright Future
Digital transformation is redefining logistics in Chile and the region, with significant advances in connectivity, automation, and sustainability. However, challenges remain, particularly in integrating technologies in sectors with limited resources. The future of the logistics sector seems to be marked by a balance between technological innovation and social responsibility. Also, as tools like blockchain, IoT, and artificial intelligence are more deeply integrated into logistics processes, the industry faces a unique opportunity to position itself as a key driver of sustainable and efficient development.
Fuente: MundoMaritimo