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Hi-tech is way forward for DP World: blockchain, AI and cloud
来源： 编辑：编辑部 发布：2018/03/26 10:44:45
DP World chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem is adamant to move the group's business forward is thought technologies, such as blockchain, artificial intelligence and cloud computing. "Technology is everywhere, and things like automation, robotics aren't there because we like technology, but because they now dictate our business," said Mr bin Sulayem, reported Dubai's Tahawul Tech. "We are now looking at Blockchain, and how we can enhance our supply chain with it and remove inefficiencies. We're currently launching many technologies to enhance our IT services, including logistics platforms. Today, consumers and suppliers are our biggest driver for change, and the cargo industry is prioritising ways it can reduce shipping times. "We see opportunities and efficiencies through technology, so investing in it is an absolute necessity for us. We need it, and needing it means having things like artificial intelligence," he said. DP World has been on a drive to enhance its global footprint, and technology is set to be a critical pillar in the smooth operation of its 78 marine and inland terminals across 40 countries. Container handling is the firm's core business, which generates more than three quarters of its revenue, which was just announced to have hit US$4.7 billion in 2017. Mr bin Sulayem sees five key technological areas that the firm has prioritised and will be monitoring closely over the coming years. We're seeing five types of tech innovation in our industry," he said. "Robotics and automation; autonomous vehicles; internet of things and big data; simulation and virtual reality; and cybersecurity. In employing these technologies in our business, we're also able to review their efficiencies. "Blockchain will bring visibility of goods in transit like never before, and by 2027, it could store up to 10 per cent of global GDP," he says. "Supply chain intelligence, blockchain and artificial intelligence will make the global supply chain faster, cheaper and more productive. Digital supply chains also have the potential to reduce process costs by 50 per cent, procurement by 20 per cent and increase revenue by 10 per cent. "All this requires new skills, new jobs, so our industry is creating demand for thinkers and visionaries." DP World earlier announced a deal with India's National Investment and Infrastructure Fund to jointly invest up to $3 billion in the country, which will explore alternative ways of transporting cargo to remote locations, including via inland waterways. Mr bin Sulayem has also met with a range of world leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko and Peruvian PM Mercedes Araoz to explore various trade issues and infrastructure opportunities. In Africa DP World signed an MoU with the government of Mali to develop a transportation and logistics strategy with electronic customs processes, replicating DP World's successful model with Dubai Trade at its flagship Jebel Ali port and free zone in Dubai. DP World has also formed a partnership with Oracto to lead a new digital transformation programme across its worldwide business operations, and Mr bin Sulayem believes the partnership will be a major step to realise its digital transformation ambitions. "Employing cloud applications that can increase efficiency, create new services and support diversification will add value for all our stakeholders and aid our vision to become a digitised global trade enabler," he said. "The standardisation of our processes has always been our focus, as its key to enabling the flow of goods. We strive to lead the future of world trade and this requires connected infrastructure, and in this dynamic digital age, it is essential that we keep up with our customers' growing needs." The group is also exploring ways that it can transport goods at lightning speed to its customers. The firm participated in the latest $50 million funding round for Virgin Hyperloop One, the pod-based transportation firm which will be able to transport passengers from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in 12 minutes and is now chaired by Virgin Group founder Richard Branson. |