Logistics Leaders Forecast a Year of Uncertainty
Industry focuses on AI, cost management, and supply chain agility
Logistics executives across various sectors are preparing for a period laden with unpredictability in trade dynamics, geopolitical developments, and the broader economy. According to findings from the recent Agility Emerging Markets Index, many are harnessing artificial intelligence (AI), enhancing cost efficiency, and rethinking their supply chains to address these challenges.
Survey Insights Highlight Industry Sentiments
A survey gathered insights from 503 professionals within the industry, revealing a staggering 86% anticipate that 2026 will be marked by heightened volatility, considering trade-related issues and political fluctuations as the new usual condition.
Embracing AI in Logistics
The Agility survey indicates a remarkable adoption of AI within logistics operations. Almost all respondents—98%—confirmed that their companies are utilizing some form of artificial intelligence to oversee segments of their supply chains or overall operations. This AI integration is supported by a backdrop of continuous shifts in global production and sourcing strategies, influenced initially by the pandemic and further complicated by emerging trade tensions.
Agility's Chairman, Tarek Sultan, noted, "Business and political leaders understand that comfort zones are non-existent; they're actively pursuing paths for sustainable growth amidst unprecedented uncertainty." Leaders acknowledge that AI can both fuel volatility and serve as a crucial tool in navigating it. Unfamiliar trade barriers are challenging companies in real time, and adapting to rapid changes is paramount.
Understanding the Agility Emerging Markets Index
The Index provides a yearly snapshot of the industry's sentiment, ranking the fifty leading emerging markets globally. This year’s assessment emphasizes logistics strengths, business viability, and digital readiness in determining the most attractive markets for logistics providers, freight forwarders, and investors.
Highlights from the 2026 Index
This year's Index presents a thorough examination of the Arabian Gulf markets, which cohesively position themselves as pivotal logistics hubs. Collectively, these nations are investing significantly in AI, energy advancements, and developing human capital, thereby reinforcing their status as essential players in global trade. The Index underscores that the ambition of Gulf countries will not be obstructed by volatility.
The stability of the ranking order remained, with countries such as China, India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Indonesia being the frontrunners. Each of the Gulf nations stands out for creating favorable business environments, while digital readiness leaders encompass China, Malaysia, India, UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Key Trends in Logistics
In terms of international logistics, the foremost positions are held by China, India, Mexico, UAE, and Saudi Arabia, while domestic logistics is predominantly led by China, India, Indonesia, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
Key Survey Findings
- Diversification of Supply Chains – Continuous changes in supply chains are evident. An impressive 97% of executives indicated that their organizations are shifting some aspects of production and sourcing to adapt to current trends.
- Identifying Risks – The survey highlighted tariffs and trade protections as the most unprepared areas, with companies favoring strategies like supplier diversification and freight consolidation to manage these risks effectively.
- Emphasis on Sustainability – Nearly half of the respondents, 48%, indicated their companies are either pausing or slowing their sustainability efforts. Common obstacles include budget constraints and shifting business priorities.
Transport Intelligence (Ti), renowned for its logistics market analysis, has examined data for the Index since its inception in 2009. Chief Executive John Manners-Bell explained that pervasive "structural uncertainty"—rooted in geopolitical shifts and trade volatility—was echoed frequently during the research phase. The Index reveals that rather than retreating from uncertainty, supply chain operators are innovatively navigating around it, embracing advanced digital tools in many areas while other segments face limitations due to skills and infrastructure challenges.
About Agility
Agility is a multifaceted operator that invests in a diverse range of global businesses. Their portfolio spans from Menzies Aviation, the top provider of aviation services worldwide, to Tristar, a global leader in fuel logistics, as well as Agility Logistics Parks, which oversees substantial logistics facilities in the Middle East and South Asia. The firm also holds minority stakes in various companies, supporting e-commerce and energy transition efforts.
Agility maintains a strong global presence across numerous continents, employing approximately 68,000 team members dedicated to optimizing logistics solutions for a wide array of clients. They are publicly listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX).
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 2026 Agility Emerging Markets Index indicate?
The index reveals the expected volatility in trade and economic conditions, urging logistics executives to adapt through AI and supply chain innovations.
How prevalent is AI in logistics according to the report?
According to the survey, 98% of companies are now using AI in some capacity to manage logistics operations.
What top countries rank in the 2026 Index?
The leading countries in the 2026 Index include China, India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others reflecting competitive logistics environments.
What are the common challenges identified by logistics executives?
Challenges include navigating tariffs, trade barriers, and sustainability pressures while adapting business strategies accordingly.
How does Agility support the logistics industry?
Agility invests in diverse logistics businesses, emphasizing advanced solutions and sustainable practices across various sectors globally.
