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The 1st Global Supply Chain CEO Forum Debuts at the 12th GLA Global Logistics Conference

Time:2025-05-29 Publisher:Kevin Num:94

On the evening of May 16, 2025, the first Global Supply Chain CEO Forum was held at the Grand Hyatt Dubai during the 12th GLA Global Logistics Conference. Centered around the theme "Navigating Trade Headwinds: Strategies for Resilient Growth in International Logistics," the forum brought together top minds from across the global logistics sector to address the mounting uncertainties in international trade and logistics and explore sustainable growth strategies.

First Global Supply Chain CEO Forum - Group Photo of Guests

The forum opened with remarks from Ms. Grace Sun, Founder and President of GLA Global Logistics Alliance and the Global Logistics Enterprises Federation (GLEF). During her address, Ms. Grace Sun reaffirmed GLA's commitment to fostering a secure, efficient, and interconnected global logistics ecosystem. She encouraged both new and existing members to fully leverage the GLA network to drive expansion and collaborative success.

As a testament to the platform's resource aggregation capabilities, she mentioned CTI Shipping Services LLC, whose team successfully conducted over 700 One-on-One meetings during the previous GLA Conference in Dubai. She urged participants to take full advantage of the opportunities offered at GLA events, optimize the value of available resources, and actively contribute to the continued growth and advancement of the global logistics industry.

Ms. Grace Sun also announced GLA's plans to host more global events in the future, with a focus on delivering innovative and collaborative solutions to the global logistics sector. She concluded by reaffirming GLA’s overarching mission to promote "Peaceful Prosperity · Digital Innovation · Trustworthy Cooperation" on a global scale.

Ms. Grace Sun, Founder and President, GLA Global Logistics Alliance

Several CEOs of globally renowned logistics companies delivered keynote speeches, exploring the effects of tariff volatility on trade strategies and presenting real-world examples of how to enhance supply chain agility and remain competitive amid evolving global conditions.

Mr. Justo Marmol , CEO of Translog Overseas from Spain, delivered a comprehensive analysis of the significant global tariff adjustments witnessed since May, emphasizing their broad impact on international trade dynamics. He pointed out that "uncertainty" is the biggest challenge currently facing the industry, highlighting regional differences in tariff responses. Mr. Marmol provided targeted strategic insights for key markets, including Southeast Asia, India, and Europe, emphasizing the need for companies to develop unique competitive advantages through adaptive and flexible supply chain management to effectively navigate trade volatility.

 Mr. Justo Marmol, CEO, Translog Overseas

Mr. Luigi Foglio, CEO of Seaway Agency from Italy, examined the deeper implications of shifting tariff regimes on global logistics operations. He underscored the strategic crossroads many international firms face in choosing between globalization and regionalization amidst intensifying trade frictions. Mr. Foglio proposed two potential futures for global commerce: one rooted in inclusive multilateral cooperation with diversified supply chains, and the other characterized by regional protectionism, selective strategic alliances, and localized supply networks. He emphasized that resilience within the logistics sector is built not only on policy or technological innovation, but also on fostering cross-border trust and collaboration. He called for the adoption of agile strategies and globally integrated partnerships to manage emerging risks effectively.

 Mr. Luigi Foglio, CEO, Seaway Agency

GLA Member from USA, Mr. Kemal H. Balihodžić, CEO of JoyRide Logistics, believes that while tariffs represent external pressures, corporate countermeasures remain within managerial control. Drawing from JoyRide's operational playbook, he outlined a three-pronged strategy: investing in regional strategic frameworks, building flexible warehousing systems, and developing intelligent software tools to navigate tariff fluctuations. Mr. Balihodzic emphasized that agility trumps scale in today's competitive landscape, demonstrating through case studies how nearshoring initiatives, diversified sourcing strategies, and automation technologies can enhance operational resilience. Additionally, he announced JoyRide Logistics' upcoming initiatives involving electric truck deployment and the integration of AI solutions to support ongoing digital transformation and business model innovation. Concluding with strategic imperatives, he positions agile logistics operations, brand trust cultivation, and technological roadmap clarity as foundational pillars for sustainable growth in an era of persistent trade policy volatility.

Mr. Kemal H. Balihodžić, CEO, JoyRide Logistics

Ms. BETANIA BIAGINI, CEO of International Business Cooperation, a company from China, highlighted four critical challenges impacting global trade: intensifying trade tensions, climate change, digital disruption, and the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. She urged companies to build more resilient and future-ready supply chains by conducting thorough geopolitical risk assessments, implementing intelligent customs practices, embracing digital transformation, and engaging in strategic planning. Ms. Biagini emphasized that a strong grasp of tariff frameworks and agile supply chain strategies is essential for maintaining competitiveness in today's complex and evolving global marketplace.

Ms. Betania Biagini, CEO, International Business Cooperation

Also, the forum featured an open-sharing session, where distinguished logistics CEOs from across the globe took the stage to share their insights. Each speaker brought a unique perspective shaped by their regional market realities, while also addressing broader global trends. Their presentations highlighted effective strategies, competitive strengths, and innovative practices that have driven success in their respective regions. This exchange not only offered valuable takeaways for attendees but also opened up new pathways for cross-border collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic partnerships in the international logistics sector.

 First Global Supply Chain CEO Forum - Open Sharing Session

The Global Supply Chain CEO Forum provided a platform for strategic dialogue and idea exchange. Participants collectively acknowledged that, in an era marked by growing complexity and uncertainty in global trade, logistics companies must prioritize collaboration, embrace technological innovation, and strengthen risk management frameworks. The discussions not only sparked multidimensional thinking on the future of the logistics sector but also highlighted real-world success stories that can serve as replicable models. Many attendees expressed their commitment to further deepening cooperation through the GLA Network, with a shared vision of advancing sustainable growth across the global logistics industry. 

First Global Supply Chain CEO Forum - Open Sharing Session

The 1st GLA Global Supply Chain CEO Forum was a major highlight of the 12th GLA Global Logistics Conference, which carried the broader theme of "Peaceful Prosperity · Digital Innovation · Trustworthy Cooperation." Held from May 15 to 18, the conference featured a wide array of events including the grand Opening Ceremony, One-on-One business meetings, expert Panel Discussions, and cultural and leisure activities such as the GLA Cocktail Party, Gala Dinner, and sports events, offering participants a vibrant mix of business, knowledge-sharing and cultural exploration.

Participants from over 130 countries and regions attended the conference, including government officials, business leaders, association heads, and logistics professionals. Delegations represented countries such as the Netherlands, the United States, India, Peru, Germany, the UAE, Kenya, Kuwait, the UK, Australia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and numerous others.

As the global logistics landscape continues to evolve, GLA remains at the forefront, connecting over 7,000 logistics enterprises across 170+ countries. GLA is committed to empowering small and medium-sized logistics firms through shared resources, digital innovation, and strategic partnerships, creating a better world for global logistics.

The 13th GLA Global Logistics Conference will take place in Bangkok, Thailand, from Nov 7–11, 2025. This upcoming edition will once again bring together logistics leaders from across the globe to tackle new challenges and uncover collaborative opportunities in an ever-evolving trade landscape. As we close the chapter on a remarkable gathering in Dubai, we invite you to mark your calendars and be part of this dynamic event. Join us in Bangkok to connect with global partners, compete through innovation, and collaborate for a more resilient and future-ready logistics industry.

Register now at: https://www.glafamily.com/meeting/registration

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