In a context where supply chains are facing security, political, economic, and environmental challenges, shippers are expressing a growing need for real-time traceability and visibility of their flows. Delivery delays, administrative burdens, and risk management are hindering the smooth flow of trade. By integrating advanced digital tools, carriers and logistics providers are streamlining the tracking of goods, reducing costs, and strengthening supply chains.
According to research firm Fortune Business Insights, the global digital logistics market is expected to reach approximately $120 billion by 2032, up from a valuation of $32.44 billion in 2024. This projection, based on a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.1% over the period, illustrates a global trend toward increased adoption of digital solutions in the transportation sector.
Towards better traceability of goods
Artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are all tools that are increasingly being integrated into logistics and contributing to better tracking of goods.
This sustained integration responds to several challenges facing the sector. According to data from Becker Logistics, cargo theft rose by 57% in 2023, resulting in losses of nearly $130 million. The integration of IoT into infrastructure such as smart containers and other transport equipment is emerging as a lever that can automate transit, reduce losses, and ensure real-time tracking of goods.
In 2024, IT services company Infosys revealed that more than 80% of logistics companies worldwide had begun their transition to generative AI. MSC, one of the global leaders in this sector, stands out in particular for its digital services. In February 2025, the group announced the launch of iReefer, a remote tracking solution designed to give customers direct access to various information related to their goods (location, temperature, humidity, etc.).
This approach is also promoted in Africa by Africa Global Logistics (AGL), a company acquired by MSC in 2023.
Digitization of customs procedures: a lever for fluidity
At the same time, the digitization of customs procedures plays a key role in accelerating cross-border flows. The adoption of systems such as electronic single windows, automated declarations, and pre-clearance platforms reduces processing times, limits human error, and increases transparency. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO), more than 70% of customs administrations worldwide have begun their digital transformation, with convincing results in terms of reducing transit times and combating fraud. In Africa, several countries such as Kenya, Ghana, and Senegal have adopted digital customs clearance platforms.
These initiatives, supported by ECOWAS and the AfCFTA, reduce delays, limit errors, and strengthen coordination between operators and authorities.
Smart warehouses: towards predictive logistics
But digitalization is not limited to transport optimization. It creates value across the entire supply chain. The development of smart warehouses illustrates this evolution: based on automation, robotization, and predictive analytics, they enable optimized inventory management and increased operational security. In Africa, pilot projects in Abidjan, Lagos, Nairobi, and South Africa are integrating technologies such as autonomous mobile robots and RFID systems to meet growing market demands.
Cybersecurity, high costs, and interoperability
In its report, the UNECE identifies several obstacles to the successful integration of digital technologies into the world of logistics, including cybersecurity. As the digitization of supply chains intensifies, the protection of sensitive data is particularly important due to the risk of cyberattacks.
In addition, the high costs associated with implementing digital projects and the lack of interoperability between digital logistics platforms are also challenges to be considered, according to the document.
In response to these challenges, UNECE is calling for a greater role for governments, particularly in establishing regulatory frameworks for data protection in the sector, as well as appropriate policies to support projects. For its part, Minterminds, the software solutions developer, is calling on the various stakeholders, particularly logistics companies, to adopt a rigorous strategy to overcome the various obstacles mentioned.
Digitalization is profoundly transforming supply chains, delivering gains in performance, safety, and sustainability at every stage of transport. By integrating advanced technologies into its operations—from smart tracking of goods to automated warehouse management and simplified customs procedures—it is bringing about lasting change to supply chains in Africa and elsewhere.