The Mediterranean Logistics & Transport Summit, MedaLogistics Week, is back in 2024 with a special edition that commemorates its 20th anniversary. The summit, which brings together international experts from the leading sectors of logistics, maritime, transport and infrastructure, will take place from 5th to 7th of June in the framework of SIL Barcelona, the leading exhibition for logistics, transport, intralogistics and supply chain in Southern Europe. Once again, the summit is jointly organized by ASCAME and Consorci Zona Franca Barcelona -which plays a critical role in transforming Barcelona into a Mediterranean and global hub for trade and logistics- and counts with the collaboration of the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, Port of Barcelona, MedPorts and other partners.
This annual summit stands as the world’s largest gathering for the Mediterranean transport, global transport and logistics event. Within two consecutive days, ministers with responsibility for transport, business leaders, heads of international organizations, and policymakers, along with representatives of business associations and leading researchers discuss the future of transport and logistics and explore how to foster connectivity and cooperation and also how to enhance global competitiveness.
On the celebration of its 20th anniversary, MedaLogistics Week Barcelona 2024 will focus on positioning the Mediterranean as a heavyweight hub for global trade and logistics by uniting three continents: Europe, Africa and Asia. According to Anwar Zibaoui, General Coordinator at ASCAME, “our strategic vision extends beyond our shores, aiming to open the Mediterranean region to the world and its neighboring regions in Europe, Africa and Asia, offering a multitude of opportunities.” Mr. Zibaoui adds: “Our goal is to unite the logistics and transport community of the three continents through the Mediterranean, making it a beacon for growth and collaboration. Apart from this, we aim to transform MedaLogistics Week Barcelona 2024 into a premier platform for reflection, contact, connection and investment.”
MedaLogistics Week Barcelona 2024: Topics of discussion
- Digital transformation in logistics: Global spending on digital transformation within the logistics industry, which stood at approximately $3 billion in 2020, is projected to skyrocket to $84.6 billion by 2027. This session will examine the impact of the massive investments in technology in the logistics industry and new working practices within the supply chain.
- Is the integrated intermodal shipping the future? Experts will debate on the benefits of integrated multimodality or integrated intermodal transport in the Mediterranean-Europe-Africa, and then look at the challenges of its implementation. The intermodal transport is moving goods via an intermodal container utilizing different forms of transport, including ships, airplanes, rail and trucks. The main challenge is that many ports, airports, road systems and railways need physical and digital upgrades before they can play a part in a modern integrated chain. Apart from this, security -especially, cybersecurity- plays a huge role in the integrity of logistics in the modern era.
- Advancing gender parity in logistics: Progress and challenges. The lingering perception of logistics as a predominantly male has hindered greater women’s involvement. Even today, the image that comes to mind when thinking of roles like “driver” or “teamster” is often male-dominated. This session will become a great opportunity to analyze the reasons behind this these trends and to discuss the persisting challenges in achieving a greater gender diversity in the future supply chain operations.
- Exploring Saudi Arabia’s $15 Billion logistics sector strategy: This session will delve into the details of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans, by examining the kingdom’s potential influence on the global logistics sector in decades to come. Saudi Arabia is set to revolutionize the logistics landscape and emerge as a key global player in the coming years. Situated at a strategic crossroads between the Global East and West, this country is already an ideal hub for transshipment and one-stop-shop supply chain services, although it faces regional competition.
In addition to all the panels of discussion, this year’s edition will include a global leaders masterclass to debate and find common solutions to enhancing cooperation among three continents through the Mediterranean. In this session, experts will respond to questions related to current challenges.
These are some examples of the topics covered: What are the main obstacles to cooperation? What are the main current logistical priorities in the region? How can Mediterranean regions learn from each other’s initiatives? How can Mediterranean economic operators be effectively integrated into corridor and other projects? What is the most effective approach to engaging in partnerships and projects, such as the emerging tri-lateral cooperation between Europe, Asia and Africa? How can we ensure that the Euro-Med-Africa will benefit from this expansion and extended partnership?
The logistics industry in the Mediterranean: Statistics & facts
Transportation and logistics play a pivotal role in fostering cooperation and economic development, serving as the lifeblood of the economy with a staggering $4.3 trillion industry. The competitiveness of an economy hinges on the efficiency of its logistics, a critical factor for all nations, particularly those in the process of development. Logistics has the power to address social problems, drive job creation and attract investments.
The Mediterranean region boasts 450 ports and terminals, accounting for 30% of global seaborne trade by volume. It stands as the world’s second largest destination for cruise ship tourism, with a population of 500 million people that doubles during the tourist season. As a coastal area, the Mediterranean Sea presents both unique challenges and opportunities associated with the transition to a green and diversified economy, coupled with a significantly growing population.
Situated at the crossroads of Asia, Europe and Africa, the Mediterranean region emerges as a substantial platform for facilitating global trade. The future of the region, enveloping the strategic meeting point of the three continents, is intricately tied to its maritime connectivity. Leveraging this connection will be paramount for the economic development of the Mediterranean in the years to come.