Logistics - WORLDEF

Amazon Launches Its First Smart Warehouse in Shenzhen

Amazon has launched its first smart warehouse in Shenzhen, China. The warehouse is designed to reduce storage costs for sellers by up to 45%.

With its smart warehouse model in China, Amazon aims to retain sellers amidst the increasing competition from Chinese rivals such as Shein and PDD Holdings’ Temu. According to the company’s statement, the smart warehouse will be Amazon’s first Global Warehousing and Distribution (GWD) center. The warehouse will serve as an all-in-one logistics hub for Chinese sellers targeting US customers, located at the heart of Shenzhen’s manufacturing base. The next-generation warehouse is designed to reduce storage costs for Chinese sellers by up to 45%.

Smart Warehouse Focuses on Sellers’ Entire Needs

Amazon’s GWD center in Shenzhen is designed to handle logistics management from the moment products leave factories in China until they reach Amazon’s warehouses in the US. This will allow Chinese sellers to automatically manage local storage, customs clearance, cross-border shipping, and inventory transfers—steps that sellers previously had to organize themselves.

Chinese Competitors Continue Their Investments to Compete with Amazon

With this move, Amazon aims to retain Chinese sellers. Competing with global e-commerce giants like Temu, Shein, and TikTok Shop in the region, Amazon is also responding to the rising competition among sellers, suppliers, and customers. Temu’s market share surged from under 1% to 24% last year, bringing it on par with Amazon. Additionally, Shein holds a market share of approximately 10%.

Chinese platforms are deepening their investments in supply chains. Shein’s founder Xu Yangtian committed to investing $1.4 billion in February to build a “smart supply chain system” in Guangdong Province.

Expanding the Smart Warehouse Model to Europe and Japan

Amazon announced plans to expand the smart warehouse model to the Yangtze River Delta, another major manufacturing hub, and extend its distribution to Europe and Japan. Shenzhen continues to remain at the center of this ecosystem. The city hosts more than half of China’s cross-border e-commerce sellers and has ranked first nationwide in cross-border trade for four consecutive years. Amazon’s expansion is placing pressure on Chinese platforms as regulations on low-value imports tighten in the US and Europe.

E-Commerce Accounts for 35% of New Warehouse Demand in Central Asia

E-Commerce Accounts for 35% of New Warehouse Demand in Central Asia

Online marketplaces and the broader e-commerce sector accounted for 35% of new warehouse space demand in Central Asia.

According to data announced by IBC Global as part of the Central Asia Warehouse Summit Uzbekistan, the e-commerce sector accounted for 35% of new warehouse space demand in Central Asia at the beginning of 2026. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers and distribution companies ranked second with a 28% share of ware house demand. The delivery needs of traditional brick-and-mortar stores accounted for an additional 18% share.

Logistics Infrastructure Took a 12% Share in Warehouse Demand

The ongoing development of regional logistics infrastructure contributed approximately 12% to total ware house demand. The light industrial sector and multi-temperature storage facilities made up the remaining 7%.

At the summit, analysts also presented a comprehensive breakdown of the typical costs associated with constructing a new ware house. Internal engineering networks emerged as the largest expense item, consuming 27.3% of a project’s total budget. This was followed by load-bearing structures at 14.7% and site landscaping at 12.1%.

Other cost items required to complete a commercial facility included on-site utility networks at 8%, flooring at 6.1%, enclosing structures at 5.5%, external utility connections at 4.5%, and roofing at 4.2%.

26.2% Growth Signals Strong Momentum for J&T Express in Q1 2026

Strong start to 2026 for J&T Express

Global logistics provider J&T Express has reported a 26.2% year-on-year growth in parcel volume for the first quarter of 2026, reflecting strong demand across key markets and continued expansion of its global logistics network.

During the reporting period, the company handled a total of 8.326 billion parcels, with average daily volumes reaching approximately 92.5 million shipments.

This performance highlights a solid start to the year, supported by increasing e-commerce activity and improved operational efficiency across regions.

Southeast Asia leads rapid expansion

One of the strongest contributors to this growth was Southeast Asia, where J&T Express continues to dominate the market. Parcel volume in the region surged by nearly 80% year-on-year, reaching 2.768 billion parcels in Q1.

The growth was driven by:

Strong demand from e-commerce platforms
Seasonal shopping peaks such as Ramadan
Continued investment in logistics infrastructure

The company also expanded its operational capacity, increasing line-haul vehicles and automated sorting systems to support rising demand.

Global markets accelerate beyond China

While China remains a core market, J&T Express is seeing rapid expansion in other regions. Non-China parcel volumes now account for over 35% of total shipments, indicating a shift toward a more globally diversified business model.

In emerging markets, including Latin America and the Middle East, parcel volumes more than doubled year-on-year. The company has been actively partnering with major e-commerce platforms such as TikTok, Temu, SHEIN, and AliExpress to capture cross-border growth opportunities.

Additionally, J&T expanded its network by adding new service outlets and sorting centers, further strengthening its international logistics capabilities.

E-commerce continues to drive logistics growth

The company’s performance reflects the broader momentum of global e-commerce, which continues to fuel demand for fast and efficient delivery solutions. As online retail expands, logistics providers like J&T Express are investing heavily in automation, infrastructure, and cross-border capabilities.

Industry trends suggest that Southeast Asia and emerging markets will remain key growth drivers in the coming years, supported by increasing internet penetration and digital adoption.

Outlook remains positive

J&T Express’ strong first-quarter results indicate continued growth potential for 2026. With a focus on operational efficiency, infrastructure expansion, and strategic partnerships, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on the next wave of e-commerce growth.

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Xyvoraq Launches Live Dropshipping Platform

Xyvoraq, which develops e-commerce infrastructure solutions, has opened the door to a major transformation in the industry by launching its AI-powered live dropshipping platform. The system developed by the company aims to automate many operational burdens, from product management to order processes, allowing brands to focus on strategic decisions.

In the new dropshipping platform, artificial intelligence manages product presentation, conversion optimization, and repetitive tasks. The dropshipping infrastructure maintains inventory, sourcing, and logistics processes. Thanks to this structure, businesses can focus on growth, channel management, and marketing strategies instead of dealing with operational details.

A New Paradigm in E-Commerce: Intelligent Systems

The approach of San Francisco-based Xyvoraq shows that e-commerce is shifting from a model that merely provides infrastructure to intelligent systems that support decisions and manage processes. Platforms no longer only offer logistics or sales infrastructure; they also develop technologies that enable businesses to take real-time action.

Xyvoraq officials emphasize that this step was taken not for short-term performance gains, but for long-term sustainable growth. The company has adopted an approach that prioritizes system stability, cash flow security, and scalability.

A Xyvoraq spokesperson said, “We are not focused on short-term performance. Our priority has always been system stability, cash flow security, and scalability. Our AI-powered live commerce is a natural progression of our infrastructure; it is not a trend we are chasing, but a capability we are building with a long-term vision.”

A New Balance Is Being Established in Dropshipping

For many years, the dropshipping model has stood out as a low-cost entry point for entrepreneurs. However, operational complexity and lack of control have been important factors limiting the sustainability of this model. The AI-powered system developed by Xyvoraq aims to minimize these issues and transform dropshipping into a more professional, scalable, and data-driven model.

The Future of E-Commerce Lies in Automation and Control

In the new era of e-commerce, competition will be shaped not only by product and price, but also by speed, operational efficiency, and technology integration. AI-supported systems will offer brands both cost advantages and strategic flexibility. Companies that take part in the early stages of this transformation will gain a significant advantage in the e-commerce ecosystem of the future.

E-Commerce and Logistics Demand Is Driving the Packaging Tape Market

The global packaging tape market is gaining momentum alongside the growth of e-commerce and industrial logistics. According to recent reports, demand for sealing and strapping packaging tapes is expected to increase significantly by 2035. The rising volume of online orders and the expansion of global supply chains are emerging as the key drivers behind this growth.

Double-digit growth rates in the e-commerce sector are directly increasing the need for packaging materials. In recent years, the global e-commerce volume reaching the trillion-dollar level has dramatically expanded the scale of packaging processes. According to experts, each online order involves the use of more than one packaging material on average. This translates into continuously increasing demand for tapes, boxes, and protective packaging products.

The Packaging Tape Market İs Expected To Experience Sustained Growth Until 2035

According to IndexBox’s latest report on the global Sealing and Strapping Packaging Tape market, the market is entering 2026 with a broader demand base, more disciplined supply behavior, and a more regionally diversified supply architecture. The report forecasts long-term and steady growth in the packaging tape market. Demand is increasing more rapidly in regions with intensive logistics operations, while industrial production and warehousing activities are also among the factors supporting the market.

North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific regions hold the largest share of the market, while increasing e-commerce penetration in developing countries is creating new growth opportunities.

Efficiency and Durability Take Priority in Logistics

The transformation in the packaging tape market is not limited to volume growth. Companies are shifting toward more durable, environmentally friendly, and cost-efficient products. In particular, recyclable and sustainable materials are among the most important trends of the new era. In addition, packaging solutions compatible with automation systems are emerging as critical elements that enhance operational efficiency in warehouses and fulfillment centers.

A Small but Critical Component in the Supply Chain

Although packaging tape may seem like a small product, it plays a critical role in the uninterrupted functioning of global trade. As a fundamental component ensuring that every shipment is delivered securely, this product category is gaining strategic importance as e-commerce continues to grow. As the expansion of e-commerce and logistics sectors continues, the importance of essential products such as packaging tape will further increase. Despite its low visibility, this market will continue to play a critical role in the sustainability of global trade.

Moyu Introduces Stonepacker: A Reusable Stone Paper Box Designed for 25 Cycles

ENOC & 7X Partner to Unlock 5 New Digital Logistics Opportunities in UAE

The UAE is taking another major step toward building a future-ready e-commerce logistics ecosystem. In a newly announced partnership, ENOC Group and 7X have signed a strategic agreement to accelerate digital transformation and last-mile innovation across the country.

The collaboration brings together ENOC’s extensive retail network with 7X’s logistics and transport capabilities creating new opportunities for faster, smarter, and more accessible delivery solutions.

A Strategic Move Toward Smarter Last-Mile Delivery

At the core of the partnership is a shared vision: improving last-mile efficiency, one of the most critical challenges in modern e-commerce.

As part of the agreement, both companies will explore integrating 7X’s logistics infrastructure such as pick-up and drop-off (PUDO) points and smart lockers into ENOC’s nationwide retail network.

This move is expected to significantly enhance customer convenience while reducing delivery times and operational complexity for businesses.

Expanding Digital & Retail Capabilities

The collaboration goes beyond logistics. It also includes joint initiatives across:

E-commerce and quick commerce (q-commerce)
Retail innovation and digital services
Transport-ready and logistics-enabled solutions

These areas highlight a broader shift in the region: blending physical infrastructure with digital ecosystems to create seamless customer experiences.

For ENOC, this aligns with its growing role as more than just an energy provider evolving into a retail and mobility platform. For 7X, it strengthens its position as a key enabler of logistics innovation in the UAE.

Why This Matters for E-Commerce

This partnership reflects a larger trend reshaping global commerce: the rise of hyper-local fulfillment and integrated logistics networks.

By turning everyday locations like fuel stations into logistics touchpoints, companies can:

Reduce last-mile delivery costs
Improve delivery speed
Increase accessibility for customers
Support omnichannel retail strategies

In markets like the UAE where consumer expectations for speed and convenience are rapidly increasing these innovations are becoming essential rather than optional.

A Glimpse Into the Future of Logistics

The ENOC–7X partnership signals a future where logistics is no longer a backend function, but a customer experience driver.

As digital infrastructure, retail networks, and logistics systems continue to converge, we can expect:

More decentralized delivery models
Increased use of smart lockers and PUDO systems
Stronger integration between online and offline commerce

Ultimately, the companies that succeed will be those that can combine technology, infrastructure, and customer-centric design into one seamless ecosystem.

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Amazon Will Increase Logistics Fees by 3.5% Due to Rising Costs

Amazon announced that it will apply an additional 3.5% fuel and logistics charge to fulfillment (storage and shipping) fees for sellers in order to balance rising operational costs. The new regulation will cover sellers in the United States and Canada as of April 17.

In the notice sent by the company to its sellers, it was stated that the additional charge will be valid particularly for transactions made through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) services. In addition, remote fulfillment operations from the United States to Canada, Mexico, and Brazil will also be included in this practice.

The Increase in Energy Prices Escalated Logistics Costs

The most important reason behind the decision was the sharp increase in global energy markets. Following the conflict that began in Iran on February 28, significant rises were seen in oil and fuel prices. In the United States, average gasoline prices increased by approximately 36% within four weeks, rising from $2.98 per gallon to $4.1. Diesel prices, on the other hand, reached $5.5, with a 46% increase, also due to disruptions in maritime shipping routes. These developments directly affected transportation and distribution costs, which are of critical importance especially in e-commerce logistics.

Pressure on the E-Commerce Ecosystem Is Increasing

Amazon’s decision is considered a development that may affect not only platform sellers but also, indirectly, consumer prices. According to experts, the increase in logistics costs creates additional pressure for sellers whose margins are already narrow. Similarly, it is known that global e-commerce giants have recently been reviewing their pricing and fee strategies in order to balance rising energy and operational costs.

The Increase in Logistics Fees May Spread to E-Commerce Companies

According to experts, as long as the volatility in energy prices continues, it seems likely that similar additional fee practices may also be implemented by other e-commerce and logistics companies. This situation may cause sellers to reshape their pricing strategies and turn to alternative logistics solutions.

In addition, in the long term, solutions such as AI-supported route optimization, warehouse automation, and localized fulfillment models are expected to come further to the forefront. For the sustainable growth of global e-commerce, cost efficiency and operational flexibility will be among the most critical competitive factors in the coming period.

E-Commerce Hit by Hormuz Crisis as 20% of Global Oil Trade Is Affected

strait-of-hormuz-disruption-slows-iraqi-e-commerce-as-costs-rise-and-deliveries-delay

The ongoing disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is beginning to ripple through Iraq’s digital economy, with e-commerce businesses facing rising costs, delayed deliveries, and increasing order cancellations.

Online retailers across Iraq report mounting logistical challenges as shipments-many routed through key global trade corridors are slowed or rerouted. The impact is particularly visible in delivery timelines, once considered a competitive advantage for e-commerce platforms.

Delivery Delays and Rising Cancellations

Small and medium-sized online sellers are among the hardest hit. Many rely on imported goods from international suppliers, particularly in Asia, making them highly dependent on stable shipping routes.

Retailers say delayed shipments have triggered a surge in cancellations, as customers opt out of purchases when delivery times become uncertain. Sellers are also absorbing additional operational pressure, balancing customer expectations with limited control over supply chain disruptions.

Transport costs have increased significantly, squeezing already thin margins. Some businesses are choosing to maintain prices to remain competitive, even as profitability declines.

Supply Chain Pressure Hits Core E-Commerce Model

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes, handling a substantial share of global energy and cargo flows. Any disruption quickly translates into higher fuel prices and shipping costs globally, directly impacting online retail.

Economists warn that e-commerce built on speed, affordability, and product availability is especially vulnerable to such shocks.

Higher oil prices are already driving up logistics expenses across both air and sea freight. This, in turn, is increasing product prices, reducing consumer purchasing power, and weakening demand in price-sensitive markets like Iraq.

Reduced Variety and Slower Market Activity

Beyond delays, the disruption is also affecting product availability. Import-dependent markets are seeing reduced variety as supply chains slow, particularly for goods sourced from China and India.

This shift is forcing e-commerce platforms and sellers to rethink inventory strategies, promotional campaigns, and pricing models. Some larger players may pass costs directly to consumers, while smaller sellers risk losing market share.

Experts note that emerging markets tend to feel the impact more sharply due to their reliance on imports and limited logistical alternatives.

A Structural Challenge for Digital Commerce

The situation highlights a broader vulnerability in global e-commerce: dependence on key geopolitical chokepoints.

As disruptions in the Strait continue, Iraqi e-commerce is likely to remain under pressure, with longer delivery cycles, higher prices, and reduced competitiveness shaping the market in the near term.

For the sector, the crisis serves as a reminder that digital commerce is only as resilient as the physical infrastructure behind it.

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DHL Expands Global Logistics with 3 Key Capabilities from Vital Solutions Acquisition

Global logistics giant DHL is expanding its footprint in South Africa through the acquisition of Vital Distribution Solutions, Staffing Logistics, and Vital Fleet, in a move aimed at strengthening its end-to-end supply chain capabilities.

The transaction, approved unconditionally by South Africa’s Competition Commission, is expected to enhance DHL’s position in transport, warehousing, and contract logistics across the region.

Strengthening Logistics Capabilities Across Key Sectors

The acquisition covers a wide range of logistics services, including road freight, third-party logistics, storage, distribution, and e-commerce-related operations.

Vital Distribution Solutions brings established capabilities in servicing industries such as FMCG, manufacturing, industrial, and retail, while Vital Fleet adds fleet management and rental services. Staffing Logistics complements the deal by providing flexible workforce solutions across transport and service sectors.

By integrating these operations, DHL aims to deepen customer relationships and deliver more scalable, end-to-end logistics solutions in a rapidly evolving market.

E-Commerce Growth Driving Demand for Third-Party Logistics

The deal comes amid rising demand for outsourced logistics services in South Africa, driven by the continued growth of e-commerce and regional trade activity.

Industry players are increasingly investing in specialised logistics solutions to meet evolving supply chain requirements, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, retail, and transport. DHL has already signalled its long-term commitment to the region, with plans to invest approximately €300 million in Sub-Saharan Africa over the next five years.

As supply chains become more complex and digital commerce continues to scale, acquisitions like this highlight a broader shift toward integrated logistics ecosystems designed to improve efficiency, resilience, and service quality.

Source: Daily Dispatch

The Future of Logistics with Zajel: Speed, Technology, and Customer-Centricity

Zajel stands out as a partner that helps brands overcome challenges by integrating not only logistics but also technology. The company offers integrated solutions that support growth, particularly focusing on speed, scalability, and visibility in the e-commerce sector. Nabeel Alkharabsheh, General Manager of Zajel, shared with WORLDEF E-COMMERCE how Zajel’s technology-driven approach, its logistics solutions, and future growth strategies are reshaping operational processes and increasing competitiveness in various sectors.

“In E-Commerce, Speed, Scalability, and Visibility Are Our Focus”

Nabeel Alkharabsheh, General Manager of Zajel, explained: “At Zajel, we position ourselves as a technology-driven logistics partner, not a one-size-fits-all service provider. Each sector has unique operational demands, and our role is to align logistics and technology to support business performance. In e-commerce, our focus is on speed, scalability, and visibility. We enable growth through integrated fulfillment, last-mile delivery, returns management, and real-time tracking that supports high volumes and peak-season demand.”

Alkharabsheh continued: “In the automotive sector, precision and compliance are crucial. We deliver secure vehicle and spare parts logistics, bonded movements, and international freight solutions with full milestone visibility across complex supply chains. In banking and financial services, trust and control are critical. We provide secure, compliant logistics for sensitive materials, supported by full audit trails, chain-of-custody tracking, and system integration.

In retail, we help brands balance cost efficiency with omnichannel execution through smart warehousing, distribution, and data-driven route optimization. Across all sectors, our positioning is clear: Zajel combines operational strength with technology to deliver customized, scalable logistics solutions that help brands move faster and operate smarter.”

“Our Technology Transforms Logistics from a Reactive Process to a Proactive, Data-Driven Operation”

When asked about how IT solutions create tangible differences in customer operations, Alkharabsheh responded: “Zajel’s IT solutions make logistics faster, simpler, and more predictable for our customers. With our Same-Day Pickup and Delivery platform, customers can book, track, and manage urgent shipments in real-time, reducing delays and improving reliability. This is especially valuable for e-commerce and time-sensitive industries.

Our WhatsApp workflows allow customers to track shipments, edit addresses, pay COD, and receive updates directly on WhatsApp, eliminating the need for calls or emails and making operations smoother for both brands and end consumers.”

Alkharabsheh also shared: “Through the Zajel mobile app and customer dashboards, clients get end-to-end visibility of pickups, deliveries, exceptions, and returns in one place. This helps operations teams make quicker decisions and reduce manual follow-ups. Zajel Pay payout system simplifies collections and reconciliations, giving businesses faster settlements, clearer financial reporting, and better cash flow control. Behind the scenes, automation handles scheduling, routing, notifications, and exception management, which reduces human errors and lowers operational costs. Overall, our technology turns logistics from a reactive process into a proactive, data-driven operation, helping brands deliver better experiences while running more efficient operations.”

“Fast Delivery Plays a Critical Role in Strengthening the Competitiveness of E-Commerce Brands”

Regarding how fast delivery services impact the competitiveness of e-commerce brands, Alkharabsheh said: “Fast delivery services play a critical role in strengthening the competitiveness of e-commerce brands by directly influencing customer behavior and brand perception. In today’s market, same-day and next-day delivery have become a basic expectation, especially in urban environments where immediacy drives purchasing decisions.

True differentiation now comes from ultra-fast delivery models such as 2-hour and 4-hour services, which transform logistics into a real-time customer experience. These services increase conversion rates, reduce purchase hesitation, support higher sales volumes, and allow brands to command premium positioning.”

Alkharabsheh added: “At Zajel, on-demand and time-critical delivery solutions, powered by smart routing, localized fulfillment, and real-time visibility, enable e-commerce brands to compete on speed, convenience, and reliability. Ultimately, fast delivery has become a strategic advantage that builds trust, strengthens customer loyalty, and drives long-term market share.”

Zajel’s Return Services and Road Freight Solutions

Alkharabsheh was asked how Zajel’s return services and road freight solutions improve customer experience and cost management for brands. He responded: “Zajel’s road freight solutions combine cost efficiency with service reliability, enabling brands to effectively manage delivery timelines and transportation expenses. Through optimized route planning, a massive fleet network, and proactive communication, customers benefit from consistent, dependable, and timely deliveries.

Zajel continues to support bulk trucking requirements and specialized movements like heavy-weight and over-dimensional cargo, highlighting its capability in handling complex transport needs. With tailored solutions across full truckload, less-than-truckload, and specialized cargo, Zajel helps brands align logistics performance with effective cost control.”

Alkharabsheh continued: “Zajel’s international air freight services provide companies with speed, reliability, and regulatory expertise, which are critical in cross-border trade. These services enable businesses to meet urgent delivery requirements, minimize lead times, and maintain continuity in global supply chains. Zajel has demonstrated strong capability in handling specialized air shipments, including vehicles, temperature-controlled shipments like chocolates and eye lenses, and highly time-sensitive oilfield materials, where rapid execution is critical to operational success.

With seamless coordination across airlines, customs authorities, and global destination partners, Zajel delivers efficient customs clearance and reliable delivery schedules. These strengths enable clients to move high-value and mission-critical cargo with confidence, enhancing market responsiveness while significantly reducing operational risk.”

Zajel’s Growth Strategy

Finally, Alkharabsheh spoke about Zajel’s growth strategy: “Zajel’s growth strategy focuses on strengthening core logistics services, advancing digital capabilities, and expanding in high-growth sectors. The company continues to invest in technology to enhance visibility, efficiency, and customer experience, while targeting sectors such as e-commerce, healthcare, and cross-border trade with tailored solutions and focused market positioning.”