The 15th Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference concluded successfully after bringing together over 2,300 participants from more than 40 countries and regions for a two-day event featuring insights from more than 80 industry leaders. Organized by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the conference facilitated substantial industry collaboration through nearly 400 business matching meetings and the signing of 11 Memoranda of Understanding across aviation, logistics, shipping and technology sectors.
This year's conference, themed "Collaboration and Growth in the New Trade Landscape," addressed critical industry challenges including supply chain diversification, sustainability initiatives, and technological innovation. The event's significance lies in its timing, as global enterprises continue facing geopolitical tensions, shifting tariffs, and ongoing supply chain disruptions. During the "Steering Business Growth in a New Era of Global Trade" session, Brian Bourke, Global Chief Commercial Officer of SEKO Logistics, emphasized that "partnerships are critical, if not more so today than ever before" and stressed the importance of resilient supply chains and diversification.
The conference highlighted the industry's transition toward green energy, with the "Green Energy Forum: Fuels, Freight, and the Road to Net Zero" session featuring discussions on how innovative technologies can help implement sustainable strategies and reduce carbon footprints. James Laybourn, Regional Segment Director for APAC of DNV Energy Systems, noted the complexity of fuel options and the need to prioritize approaches to tackle energy transition challenges effectively.
Emerging technologies took center stage with dedicated sessions on low-altitude economy development and artificial intelligence implementation. The "Engine of Low-altitude Economy: How Cargo Drones Are Revolutionising the Future of Air Logistics" session featured industry leaders discussing regulatory challenges and operational frameworks. Bobby Healy, CEO and Founder of Manna Drone Delivery, identified regulatory compliance and airspace access as key hurdles, while Kenny Lau, Chief Technology Officer of S.F. Express (Hong Kong) Limited, emphasized the need for efficient investment spaces and standardized frameworks.
The conference also featured practical technology implementation discussions, including the "Digital Workshop – Implementing AI in your Supply Chain" delivered by Steve Ng, Head of Supply Service for Reckitt, which showcased multiple use cases and automation planning processes. A Youth Empowerment Workshop addressed career prospects and value enhancement strategies to attract new talent to the logistics industry.
The exhibition component showcased over 90 exhibitors across dedicated zones including aviation, low-altitude economy, supply chain management, and logistics services. The newly introduced Low-altitude Economy zone highlighted globally leading logistics technology solutions, promoting strategic partnerships in this rapidly developing sector. The event also recognized young industry talent through the Hong Kong's NextGen Logistician Award Presentation Ceremony 2025, honoring exceptional achievements in innovative, high-end, smart and sustainable logistics.
The conference's outcomes demonstrate the industry's collective response to current challenges through strengthened partnerships and technological adoption. The signed agreements, including the memorandum between HKTDC and Greater Bay Airlines Company Limited available at https://www.hktdc.com/aboutus, reflect concrete steps toward enhancing Hong Kong's position as a world-class destination for global trade and tourism. The event's comprehensive approach to addressing both immediate operational challenges and long-term strategic directions underscores the logistics sector's critical role in global economic stability and growth.
