As I write this introduction PTI has recently concluded its Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC). During the four day online event speakers from across the industry explored how terminals are using the latest technologies to overcome a host of supply chain challenges.

In this edition of the Journal, we provide you with a review of the week and highlight some of the key topics that were discussed, including digital twin, standardisation and inland terminals. We also have a number of interviews with some of the top-level speakers from a number of the leading industry players including Hutchison and DP World. In addition, Yesim Elhan-Kayalar, Advisor to Chief Economist at the Asian Development Bank (ADB), discusses how automation is a key driver of growth for ports and terminals, especially in Asia.

The overall feeling throughout CTAC 2021 was that despite the challenges presented to ports and terminals during the COVID-19 pandemic, most remained resilient. However, those with more advanced automation and digital processes weathered the storm more easily.
For instance, Nawaf Abdulla, CEO, DP World Limassol, told PTI the terminal operator’s increased focus on digitalisation centres on adapting to changing circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

While digitalisation was already a big focus already for ports and terminals, in many cases this focus has been accelerated. Also, in this edition of the Journal, Kalmar talks about the need for container terminals to embrace standardisation and open interfaces.

Kalmar notes in its paper that in order to reap the full potential benefits of container terminal automation, a systemic, standardised approach is required.
Finally, Navis provides insight into an area that is becoming a growing focus within the supply chain – rail operations.

Johannes Leholm, Solutions Architect, Navis explains to readers five ways to modernise on-doc rail operations at container gateways as ports look to increase the size and scope of on-doc rail facilities.

With an increase in container traffic at many ports and terminals it is not sufficient to solely focus on investment in waterside infrastructure improvement. This rhetoric was also echoed at CTAC. If you missed out on the CTAC event you are able to catch up on the event in full on-demand by signing up at https://ctac.events/.