SAN PEDRO GARZA GARCÍA, NL.- In recent years, the logistics sector has faced the evolution of processes , from the simple movement of goods to the integration of advanced technologies that facilitate regulatory compliance, but in the current context it is experiencing a significant transformation driven by the need to adapt to new regulatory challenges and a constantly changing economic environment.
As mentioned in the Empowering Your Foreign Trade panel at the Uber Freight Powering Intelligent Logistics Summit , historically, logistics departments have focused on the transportation of goods . However, this vision has changed and players in the sector are faced with the need to modernize their operations, which includes the incorporation of technology, the automation of processes and the use of artificial intelligence for data analysis.
“We have been hearing about the evolution of a department that was dedicated to moving things from one place to another,” said Javier Ortiz, director of the Foreign Trade and Customs Committee of Index Nacional.
In this regard, the panelists agreed that one of the most significant challenges is the increase in automated oversight by the authorities, which is expected to be a change that will create a heavy burden for companies, which will have to adjust their internal processes to comply with the new regulations.
In this regard, Daniel Rodríguez, Trade Compliance Director Mexico at Uber Freight, expressed his concern about the tendency to view the sector as a victim of regulation, which can divert attention from responsibility and effective management.
This change in perspective is crucial for import and export departments in Mexico to adapt to a scenario where compliance and inspection issues are increasingly complex.
In this regard, Eduardo Reyes Díaz Leal, director of GBI Trade & Law , stressed that the “absurd oversight” that the sector faces, instead of helping, regulation can further complicate operations , so the direction it may take is uncertain.
This uncertainty is exacerbated by growing protectionism, both nationally and internationally.
For example, the pressure of environmental regulation, such as the new carbon footprint rule in Europe, affects Mexican companies that must adapt quickly to meet the demands of the global market.
The concept of trade compliance has therefore become central to the discussion on logistics.
Daniel Rodríguez pointed out that it is vital to get involved in this issue, including the analysis of rules of origin and compliance with trade agreements .
On the other hand, efficient communication between all actors in the supply chain is essential for success, so Eduardo Reyes reiterated that it is crucial that everyone, from the CEO to the operational staff, is aligned.
This synergy allows for better anticipation of challenges and a more agile response to regulations.
In the face of these challenges, staff training and professionalization have become more crucial than ever, as has improved internal communication.
“The more efficient we are in communicating the issues we see, the better the support will be,” said Javier Ortiz.
This approach to communication allows companies to anticipate changes and adapt quickly to new market demands.
In addition, Daniel Rodríguez highlighted the importance of technology and anticipation in this new environment, emphasizing that the use of digital tools can be a determining factor in improving efficiency and compliance.
“Starting to look into studying one or two steps before I have to run my process becomes imperative to ensure a smooth operation within the supply chain,” he said.
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