Streamlining Supply Chains for a Cohesive Tomorrow

As international trade continues to expand amid a web of regulatory, environmental, and technological challenges, the logistics sector is under increasing pressure to revamp its digital frameworks. Citing insights from various experts in regulation, academia, technology, and freight forwarding, it’s clear that embracing digital transformation is no longer just an upgrade; it’s a vital strategic move for maintaining airfreight efficiency, fostering economic progress, and achieving sustainability objectives.

Dr. stéphane Graber from FIATA succinctly stated: “Digitalisation transcends mere paper replacement.It’s about cultivating trust, streamlining operations, and ensuring accessible data across a fragmented supply chain—while maintaining security and sovereignty.”

The Intersection of Freight and Friction

The global supply chain landscape presents a unique paradox—it’s intricately connected yet often disjointed. Logistics relies on countless interactions that require real-time decision-making amidst unpredictable circumstances.

“The nature of logistics is chaotic,” remarked Parvinder Singh Chhatwal from Hans Infomatics Pvt Ltd. “What we need isn’t partial digitisation but complete visibility throughout the process. Let’s prioritize pushing data over paperwork.”

The industry has made progress with tools like electronic airway bills (e-AWB), RFID tracking systems, and automation at airports; however, advancements are inconsistent. For instance, while India boasts over 60% e-AWB adoption rates—higher than many countries—it still lags behind global benchmarks leading to inefficiencies at major hubs like Delhi and Mumbai where even minor procedural flaws can lead to notable delays.

An example highlighted by Chhatwal was Delhi Airport’s transition to fully paperless operations which allowed them to increase their handling capacity dramatically—from 5 million tonnes annually up to 12 million—without needing additional infrastructure investments. “Digitalisation isn’t just an option anymore; it acts as a multiplier for capacity,” he noted.

Navigating Platform Politics Towards Standardization

The challenge lies not in the availability of technology but rather in achieving interoperability among systems. Dr Graber put it plainly: “The issue isn’t whether we have the right tools; it’s whether we’re communicating in the same digital language.”

This common language is being developed through initiatives such as FIATA’s collaboration with UN/CEFACT reference Data Model alongside partnerships with organizations like the World customs Organization (WCO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA). These efforts are paving the way for more cohesive standards.T.A. khan from UNNExT emphasized that mutual recognition of electronic documents along with digital signatures must be pursued through both multilateral agreements as well as regional frameworks like UNCITRAL’s Model Law on Electronic Commerce—a step India is already taking through Digital Economy Agreements within its free trade agreements (FTAs).......