Logistics - WORLDEF

Barid Al-Maghrib and Saudi Post Boost E-Commerce

Morocco’s national postal operator, Barid Al-Maghrib, and Saudi Arabia’s postal service, Saudi Post, have entered into a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing postal services and e-commerce logistics. Announced during the 28th Universal Postal Congress (UPU) held in Dubai in September 2025, this partnership marks a significant milestone in regional cooperation and digital transformation in the postal sector (Morocco World News).

Key Developments at the Universal Postal Congress

The 28th Universal Postal Congress, held from September 8 to 19, 2025, brought together postal and logistics leaders from 192 countries. The event provided a platform to discuss emerging trends, innovative technologies, and the future of postal services worldwide. During the congress, Barid Al-Maghrib and Saudi Post signed two key agreements designed to strengthen collaboration and expand e-commerce logistics capabilities between Morocco and Saudi Arabia.

The agreements are expected to enhance operational efficiency, accelerate cross-border deliveries, and improve customer experience in both countries. Experts note that these steps reflect the growing importance of digital transformation and e-commerce in the MENA region.

Details of the Agreements

Cooperation Protocol

The cooperation protocol allows both institutions to share innovative services and products and jointly develop new projects in postal operations, logistics, and digital technologies. The protocol emphasizes sustainability, technological innovation, and service modernization. Both institutions also plan to collaborate on staff training, knowledge exchange programs, and the implementation of digital solutions to optimize postal operations.

International Logistics Agreement

The second agreement focuses on enhancing the efficiency of international shipments through Saudi Post’s network of exchange offices. This initiative will streamline the handling of cross-border parcels and improve delivery times for e-commerce transactions. By leveraging shared resources, advanced tracking systems, and optimized logistics routes, both postal services aim to provide faster and more reliable services for businesses and consumers alike.

Background of the Morocco-Saudi Arabia Partnership

This collaboration follows discussions held during the Morocco-Saudi Arabia Joint Committee meeting in Mecca in March 2025. Both institutions have emphasized the strategic importance of partnerships to achieve digital transformation, modernize postal services, and support sustainable development goals in the region. Analysts highlight that such collaborations are critical for strengthening regional economic integration and fostering growth in the e-commerce sector.

The partnership also reflects a broader trend in the MENA region, where postal services are increasingly adopting innovative solutions to meet the demands of fast-growing e-commerce markets. By working together, Morocco and Saudi Arabia aim to create a more connected, efficient, and technology-driven postal network.

The Growing Role of E-Commerce

E-commerce has become a major driver of economic growth in both Morocco and Saudi Arabia. The rise of online shopping, cross-border transactions, and digital payment solutions has created significant demand for reliable and efficient postal and logistics services.

Barid Al-Maghrib and Saudi Post’s collaboration is expected to meet these demands by implementing technology-driven solutions, enhancing parcel tracking capabilities, and improving delivery speeds. This will benefit retailers, e-commerce platforms, and end consumers, while also supporting regional economic development.

Sectoral and Economic Implications

This strategic partnership has broad implications for the postal and logistics sector:

Joint projects will enable the modernization of postal services, including automated sorting centers and advanced logistics systems.
The international logistics agreement will ensure faster, more efficient delivery of cross-border e-commerce shipments.
Both institutions plan to invest in environmentally friendly logistics solutions and energy-efficient technologies, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Analysts predict that this collaboration will enhance the competitiveness of postal services in the MENA region and establish a strong foundation for further regional cooperation in logistics and e-commerce.

Digital Transformation and Future Prospects

Both Barid Al-Maghrib and Saudi Post are investing in digital transformation initiatives to support innovation and improve service delivery. Key initiatives include:

Establishing smart postal centers with automated processing and sorting technologies,
Developing comprehensive online tracking and management systems for customers and businesses,
Implementing artificial intelligence and data analytics tools to optimize logistics and delivery operations.

These initiatives are expected to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction. Experts suggest that this partnership could serve as a model for other postal services in the region and globally, demonstrating the potential of digital transformation in enhancing postal and e-commerce services.

Conclusion

The strategic collaboration between Barid Al-Maghrib and Saudi Post underscores the growing significance of digitalization and e-commerce in the postal and logistics sector. By improving cross-border logistics, accelerating delivery times, and implementing innovative solutions, both countries are positioning themselves as leaders in the regional e-commerce landscape.

This partnership not only strengthens bilateral relations but also contributes to regional economic integration and the achievement of sustainable development and digital transformation goals. It is expected to create a positive impact on businesses, consumers, and the wider postal industry in the MENA region.

IQ Robotics Joins Logistics Leaders Saudi 2025

IQ Robotics, a leading provider of robotic and automation solutions for logistics, has been confirmed as a Gold Sponsor for Logistics Leaders Saudi 2025, taking place in Riyadh on September 15 at the Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya (Logistics Middle East). The sponsorship underscores IQ Robotics’ commitment to advancing the logistics and supply chain sector in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East region.

A Growing Logistics Market

Saudi Arabia’s logistics industry is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification, digitalization, and infrastructure expansion. The country is investing heavily in ports, warehouses, and transportation networks, while embracing technological innovation to streamline supply chains (Arab News). Automation and robotics are becoming increasingly critical to meet growing demand, improve efficiency, and reduce operational costs.

IQ Robotics specializes in providing intelligent robotics solutions designed to automate warehousing, last-mile delivery, and inventory management processes. By participating as a Gold Sponsor, the company aims to showcase its latest innovations and connect with regional logistics leaders, policymakers, and potential clients.

Event Objectives and Key Highlights

Logistics Leaders Saudi 2025 is one of the region’s premier conferences and exhibitions focused on supply chain management, freight, warehousing, and digital logistics solutions. The event brings together leading figures from the private and public sectors to explore opportunities, challenges, and technological advancements shaping the industry (Logistics Middle East).

IQ Robotics’ Gold Sponsorship provides the company with a platform to present its robotics solutions, including automated guided vehicles, warehouse automation systems, and AI-powered inventory management software. These technologies are designed to enhance efficiency, reduce human error, and support sustainable logistics operations.

Speakers at the event will address topics such as digital transformation, supply chain resilience, e-commerce fulfillment, and the adoption of smart warehouse technologies. Attendees will gain insights into the latest industry trends and network with leading logistics providers, technology vendors, and investors from across the GCC region.

IQ Robotics’ Strategic Goals in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia represents a key market for IQ Robotics due to its ambitious logistics expansion plans and growing adoption of automation technologies. The company aims to strengthen its partnerships with local logistics operators and demonstrate how its solutions can help optimize operations, improve throughput, and reduce operational costs.

According to company representatives, participating in Logistics Leaders Saudi 2025 as a Gold Sponsor allows IQ Robotics to directly engage with stakeholders, understand market needs, and tailor solutions to regional requirements. The sponsorship reflects the company’s long-term vision of supporting Saudi Arabia’s logistics transformation and helping businesses adapt to a more automated, technology-driven supply chain environment (Logistics Middle East).

The Role of Robotics in Modern Logistics

The adoption of robotics and automation is becoming increasingly crucial in the logistics sector, especially in the GCC, where e-commerce growth and consumer demand are rising rapidly. Automation technologies can significantly reduce operational costs, improve accuracy, and enhance warehouse safety. IQ Robotics’ solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing logistics infrastructure, providing a scalable approach to automation.

Experts predict that robotics and AI-driven logistics solutions will play a central role in the region’s supply chain modernization over the next decade. Companies that adopt these technologies early will benefit from increased efficiency, faster delivery times, and higher customer satisfaction.

Networking and Knowledge Sharing Opportunities

Logistics Leaders Saudi 2025 provides participants with the chance to share knowledge, network with industry leaders, and explore collaborations. By attending, IQ Robotics can showcase its technological capabilities to a diverse audience, including government officials, logistics service providers, and international investors.

The event also emphasizes sustainable logistics practices, digitalization, and innovative approaches to supply chain management, reflecting broader trends in the global logistics industry. IQ Robotics’ participation demonstrates the company’s commitment to driving innovation and supporting the Kingdom’s logistics growth.

Future Prospects and Regional Impact

IQ Robotics’ involvement in the conference is expected to strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia and expand its influence across the GCC logistics market. By highlighting practical solutions for warehouse automation and supply chain efficiency, the company aims to accelerate the adoption of robotics and smart technologies throughout the region.

The sponsorship also signals to regional stakeholders that IQ Robotics is a key partner for companies seeking to modernize their logistics operations. With Vision 2030 and growing demand for automated solutions, Saudi Arabia presents an ideal environment for robotics companies to scale their operations and demonstrate real-world impact (Arab News).

De Minimis Ends: New Tariffs in U.S. Trade

The long-standing “de minimis” exemption in the United States, which allowed individual consumers to import low-value goods without paying customs duties, officially ended on August 29, 2025. This regulation particularly affects low-value shipments from countries like China. From now on, even a $1 item will be subject to customs duties. Cards are being reshuffled for both consumers and international small businesses.

Under the new system implemented by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), all imported goods must be declared and any applicable duties must be paid. This step is linked to the rapid growth of China-based e-commerce platforms in the U.S. market in recent years and the resulting tax revenue losses.

According to Reuters, over 1.36 billion packages entered the U.S. under the “de minimis” exemption in 2024 alone. The vast majority of these packages came from Chinese platforms such as Temu, AliExpress, and Shein (Reuters, August 29, 2025). These companies were able to sell low-priced products to the U.S. without paying any customs duties, weakening domestic producers’ competitiveness and reducing government tax revenues, as well as allowing uncontrolled product entry.

Security Concerns and Illegal Trade Played a Role

According to the Financial Times, the U.S. government’s decision was motivated not only by economic reasons but also by security concerns. In recent years, fentanyl and other dangerous substances have been detected in low-value packages, especially those originating from China, sparking serious public concern (Financial Times, August 2025).

Initially, restrictions targeted shipments from China and Hong Kong. However, the decision was soon extended to cover all countries. The U.S. administration argued that the policy should not be China-specific but globally applicable to maintain fair trade principles.

What Consumers Can Expect

For millions of U.S. consumers shopping online from abroad, this regulation means significant changes. Small products that previously entered duty-free will now be taxed at rates varying between 10% and 50%, depending on the product type and country of origin.

Platforms like Shein and Temu, which gained significant market share in the U.S. by selling low-cost clothing, accessories, and home goods, will now have to factor these tariffs into their pricing. Consumers shopping on these platforms will need to pay duties either at checkout or upon delivery. Shipping times may also increase due to extended customs processing.

Impact on Small Businesses

Not only consumers but also small exporters will be affected. Entrepreneurs selling products overseas through platforms such as Etsy, eBay, and Amazon must now prepare customs declarations for every shipment, calculate tariffs, and manage additional logistics. This creates a significant operational burden, especially for small-scale sellers.

For SMEs exporting to the U.S. from countries like Turkey, India, or Eastern Europe, this process will be both costly and time-consuming. Some businesses plan to withdraw from the U.S. market or rely on third-party logistics providers to manage shipments.

International Postal Services Temporarily Suspend Shipments

The rapid implementation of the new rules caught some national postal services unprepared. Australia Post, India Post, Royal Mail, and several European postal operators announced temporary halts or restructurings of shipments to the U.S.

According to AP News, the Universal Postal Union (UPU) warned that this sudden change is straining the international logistics system, potentially causing delays in developing countries’ shipments (AP News, August 2025).

U.S. Government Seeks Temporary Solutions

The U.S. Treasury Department plans to introduce a fixed-rate tariff system during a six-month transition period for certain large platforms that meet compliance standards. However, this relief will not extend to small or independent sellers.

Domestic Producers Welcome the Change, Retail Giants Adjust

The National Retail Federation (NRF) has welcomed the change, stating that duty-free imports of low-cost products from abroad have created unfair price competition for U.S. manufacturers.

Retail giants such as Walmart, Target, and Costco, which already pay import tariffs, are expected to be less affected by the change. These companies may even benefit from reduced pressure from low-priced competitors.

A New Era in Trade Policy

Experts believe the U.S. decision to end the “de minimis” exemption could trigger similar actions in global trade policies. Canada, the European Union, and some South American countries are reportedly considering comparable regulations to close tax loopholes in low-value shipments.

This decision may set an example at a time when the rules of digital commerce are being rewritten and national tax policies must align with e-commerce realities.

Advice for Consumers

Consumers need to act cautiously under the new system. Choosing platforms that provide “duties included” pricing, verifying total costs before ordering, and understanding customs procedures are essential.

Also, considering possible shipping delays, buying from local suppliers for urgent needs becomes a safer option.

Amna Rashed Lootah Appointed as General Manager of Dubai CommerCity!

When it comes to “digital commerce” in the Gulf region, Dubai holds a unique position! Dubai CommerCity stands out for its contributions to the region’s digital trade. As the first and only free zone focused solely on digital commerce, Dubai CommerCity continues its growth journey with this important appointment.

About Amna Lootah

Amna Lootah is a key leader in Dubai’s economic zone sector, with over 20 years of expertise spanning finance, innovation, customer experience, and business development. As a Director General and Board Member of Dubai CommerCity, she has played a crucial role in shaping its strategic vision, establishing it as the region’s premier hub for e-commerce and digital trade.

Her leadership has been instrumental in developing Dubai CommerCity’s investment into a world-class ecosystem that enables global and regional brands to thrive in the MENASA market. She has also contributed to innovative initiatives such as Tradeling, a B2B e-commerce marketplace, and the Halal Trade and Marketing Centre, reinforcing Dubai’s role in global trade.

Amna’s forward-thinking approach continues to enhance Dubai’s position as a business-friendly destination, offering seamless solutions for companies looking to expand in the region. With a strong background in leadership development and business strategy, she remains committed to driving growth and innovation within Dubai’s economic zones.

About Dubai CommerCity

Dubai CommerCity is the first dedicated free zone for digital commerce in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) region. Strategically located in Dubai, we provide a fully integrated ecosystem designed to accelerate the success of e-commerce businesses, from startups to global enterprises. With world-class infrastructure, advanced logistics solutions, and a thriving business environment, Dubai CommerCity offers an unparalleled platform for companies to expand and thrive in the digital economy.

DCC provides flexible offices and co-working spaces designed for e-commerce, advanced logistics centers, and end-to-end digital commerce support. The region’s largest e-commerce fair, WORLDEF, is held at DCC.

Dubai CommerCity: The ideal hub for digital commerce businesses

Descartes Makes a Strategic Move with $40 Million Acquisition of Finale Inventory

Supply chain software leader Descartes Systems Group has taken a significant step forward in its e-commerce growth strategy by acquiring Finale Inventory for approximately $40 million. According to the company’s official announcement, the deal also includes a potential earnout of up to $15 million, which will be paid in fiscal years 2027 and 2028, based on revenue performance.

Based in California, Finale Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management platform that helps multichannel e-commerce businesses automate core processes such as inventory tracking, order management, shipping, and accounting integrations. The platform is particularly well-known for enabling scalable growth in complex inventory environments by providing operational visibility and control.

Mikel Richardson, General Manager of E-Commerce Solutions at Descartes, emphasized Finale Inventory’s strategic value, particularly for scaling e-commerce brands:

“As inventory complexity and the risk of overselling increase, Finale gives merchants the transparency and control they need to grow confidently.”

Descartes’ second major move within a year

This acquisition marks Descartes’ second major investment within a year. Earlier this year, the company acquired 3GTMS, a provider of cloud-based transportation management solutions, for $115 million. That deal was aimed at strengthening Descartes’ capabilities in truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), and parcel shipping optimization.

Ed Ryan, CEO of Descartes (NASDAQ: DSGX), described the Finale Inventory acquisition as a key addition to the company’s e-commerce strategy:

“Together with Sellercloud, Finale enables us to support e-commerce businesses at every stage of growth—from early-stage startups to global, multi-channel enterprises. We’re thrilled to welcome Finale’s customers, partners, and expert team into the Descartes family.”

The acquisition was funded using Descartes’ existing cash reserves and is expected to further enhance the company’s global vision for integrated inventory, warehousing, and delivery solutions.

Takealot Group Transforms South African Logistics with the Launch of TFS

Unlocking E-Commerce in Africa: The Importance of Financing and Digital Infrastructure

Africa is experiencing rapid growth in the digital commerce sector, with e-commerce volumes expanding year after year. However, there are key challenges preventing the continent from fully realizing this potential. Chief among these is the difficulty medium-sized businesses face in accessing financing. While microfinance institutions support smaller enterprises, appropriate credit and investment options remain limited for mid-sized firms. Traditional banks often hesitate to invest in this area due to perceived high risks.

Innovative Approaches to E-Commerce Financing and Digital Transformation

To overcome these challenges, data-driven financing models are gaining prominence. Utilizing digital data such as e-commerce sales, inventory status, and customer feedback can improve credit assessment processes and help businesses access funding more easily. Moreover, data sharing between payment systems, logistics providers, and banks enables more accurate risk analysis.

Public-private partnerships that develop blended finance models facilitate access to capital through risk-sharing mechanisms, increasing the growth potential of businesses. The widespread adoption of mobile payment systems and strengthening of digital infrastructure in Africa also support e-commerce’s reach to broader audiences. This not only accelerates economic development but also delivers social benefits.

In conclusion, unlocking e-commerce in Africa requires easing access to financing and supporting digital transformation. These two elements form the foundation for a stronger digital commerce ecosystem and sustainable growth across the continent.

E-Commerce Tax Revenue in Kyrgyzstan Grows by 17.9% in the First Half of 2025

In the first half of 2025, Kyrgyzstan saw a 17.9% increase in tax revenue generated from e-commerce activities. This growth reflects a combination of rising online sales volumes and more effective tax monitoring systems, in line with the country’s broader digital economic transformation. A particularly notable rise was observed in taxes collected from foreign digital service providers, while local online businesses also began contributing more consistently.

During this period, local e-commerce stores contributed approximately 31 million Kyrgyz soms in taxes. According to government data, total tax revenue from e-commerce in 2024 had already increased nearly sixfold compared to the same period the previous year. This rapid growth is directly linked to the effective implementation of a 2% digital services tax rate introduced on electronic trade activities.

Digital Growth Drives E-Commerce Tax Collection

Data released by the Kyrgyz Ministry of Finance indicates that tax revenue from January to May 2025 alone reached 31 million soms. This demonstrates that digital sales are now a sustainable source of public revenue. Under national tax regulations, companies and individual entrepreneurs conducting online sales are subject to a 2% e-commerce tax. This obligation particularly applies to those selling through digital service providers and online marketplaces.

The Kyrgyz government introduced this taxation policy to support digital economy development and formalize previously unreported income streams. Platforms like Akta and Portal have enhanced transaction tracking, improving compliance and simplifying reporting processes. These systems have helped increase transparency within the e-commerce sector while contributing positively to the state budget.

In summary, the 17.9% increase in Kyrgyzstan’s e-commerce tax revenue in the first half of 2025 highlights how effective digital policies and tax enforcement can generate meaningful economic results. Expanding tax obligations for both local and foreign e-commerce players is proving beneficial for the country’s economic stability.

Takealot Group Transforms South African Logistics with the Launch of TFS

In mid-2025, Takealot Group officially launched Takealot Fulfilment Solutions (TFS), a new business unit that brings together its logistics operations under one brand. Services that were previously used internally—such as warehousing, order fulfillment, delivery, and international shipping—are now available to third-party businesses. This strategic shift marks Takealot’s evolution from a traditional e-commerce platform to a technology-driven logistics partner.

The new model caters not only to Takealot sellers but also to small and medium enterprises and even individual entrepreneurs. With its inclusive approach, TFS offers users fast delivery, efficient warehouse management, and full supply chain visibility. It aims to close the gaps in South Africa’s logistics infrastructure while supporting regional trade growth.

Takealot’s Logistics Solutions Provide Strong Support for Digital Commerce

Takealot’s TFS initiative is poised to have a significant impact on the South African e-commerce ecosystem. At a time when international giants like Amazon are entering the market, Takealot is reinforcing its competitive position by investing in robust infrastructure. The company is also leveraging its last-mile expertise developed through its previous platform, Mr D, and expanding that into a comprehensive logistics service network.

Through TFS, companies in sectors such as retail, food, healthcare, and fast-moving consumer goods can reduce logistics costs while improving operational efficiency. This positions Takealot not only as a service provider but also as a key player shaping the future of logistics in South Africa.

In conclusion, the launch of TFS represents a strategic move by Takealot that strengthens digital trade and enables local businesses to access global markets more efficiently.

FiCommerce Moves One Step Closer to Operational Excellence with Its New Fulfillment Center

FiCommerce, a key player in e-commerce logistics and a prominent fulfillment service provider, is expanding its operational capacity. Marking a new milestone in its transformation journey, the company has officially opened a new fulfillment center in Gebze, Kocaeli, Türkiye. Sedat Aydın, Operations Director at FiCommerce, stated, “This building is not just a warehouse; it is a fulfillment center specifically designed to manage the complexity, volume, and speed of e-commerce logistics.” Aydın was a guest at WORLDEF E-COMMERCE!

“At FiCommerce, we believe that true innovation lies not only in meeting today’s e-commerce demands but also in anticipating the future,” said Aydın. “With this understanding, we set out to build a fulfillment center that not only meets expectations but redefines them. I can proudly say that this new facility is a tangible reflection of our vision, our commitment to operational excellence, and, most importantly, our promise to our customers.”

“This Building Is Not Just a Warehouse”

Emphasizing that the new fulfillment facility was designed with a single, clear objective in mind, Aydın continued, “That objective is to serve as a high-performance engine for modern e-commerce operations. Every decision—from macro-level layout to micro-level process flows—was centered around the needs of e-commerce businesses. Spanning approximately 6,000 square meters of accessible and efficient space, the structure was optimized with scalability and flexibility in mind. This building is not just a warehouse; it is a fulfillment center specifically designed to manage the complexity, volume, and speed of e-commerce logistics.”

Operational Excellence: Where Design Meets Data

Aydın underlined that every square meter of the facility reflects “our unwavering commitment to operational excellence.” He added, “While the physical infrastructure plays a fundamental role, the true performance is driven by the data-oriented processes built on top of it. That’s why, beyond the hardware and layout, we structured our workflows around the most critical metrics.

With a daily outbound capacity of 75,000 units, our operations are not only fast but also accurate, consistent, and scalable. Thanks to our 99.97% inventory accuracy rate, our clients have real-time access to their stock with minimal discrepancy. The 99.9% shipment accuracy rate is a result of strict quality controls, multi-layered verification systems, and our trained fulfillment teams. From inbound processing to dispatch, all functions are monitored via live KPI dashboards that feed our continuous improvement cycle. Here, efficiency is not a buzzword—it is the outcome of deliberate engineering.”

“Designed for Efficiency, Engineered for Resilience”

Highlighting that what makes the new fulfillment facility special is not just its size but also its intelligent design, Aydın explained, “The internal layout was optimized to enable seamless product flow, reduce in-warehouse transportation time, and maximize picking and packing efficiency.

In close collaboration with logistics engineers and system designers, we created a layout that minimizes friction and maximizes productivity in daily operations. From a structural and safety engineering standpoint, our facility is equipped with the latest fire safety systems and earthquake-resistant racking solutions. These features have been specifically developed for high-density and high-speed e-commerce environments.”

He also added, “Our infrastructure is also a showcase of resilience. The building, racking systems, and operational equipment were built using advanced engineering techniques to protect against earthquake and fire risks. In a region where such risks can disrupt operations, safeguarding our infrastructure for the future was non-negotiable. This means our clients can rest assured that their inventory is stored not only in a secure environment but also in one that is prepared for the unexpected.”

Facility Highlights of FiCommerce

One of the standout features of the FiCommerce Gebze fulfillment center is its temperature-controlled special storage areas. These sections, specially designed for climate-sensitive products, ensure the safety of items across categories such as fashion, cosmetics, electronics, and dietary supplements. To manage product diversity and improve accessibility, zone-based picking strategies and AI-assisted placement algorithms have been implemented.

As a result, storage space is utilized more efficiently, and high-frequency items are always kept within easy reach. Additionally, picker fatigue is reduced, and order fulfillment times are shortened. With an impressive daily outbound capacity of 75,000 units, the new fulfillment center can support both high-volume marketplace operations and specialized B2C projects with equal precision, speed, and reliability.

“We’re Investing Not Only in Infrastructure but in People”

Sedat Aydın emphasized that FiCommerce is not just building facilities but also creating environments where people can thrive. He pointed out that the modern social and rest areas within the new fulfillment center were designed with team cohesion and employee well-being in mind. He also noted their significant investment in ergonomic workstations, saying, “Because we believe that for operational excellence to be sustainable, our employees must be supported both physically and mentally. A high-performing logistics operation is only possible with high-performing people. We built this facility based on that truth.”

“In E-Commerce Logistics, Location Is Everything”

“In e-commerce logistics, location is everything,” said Aydın. “Placing this facility in the Kocaeli-Gebze region, right next to Istanbul, is no coincidence. The area lies at the intersection of critical transportation corridors. This allows us fast and efficient access to last-mile delivery providers, intercity carriers, and major distribution hubs. Its proximity to Istanbul shortens long-haul delivery times and enhances our ability to control service levels. In short, we are now much better positioned to meet both domestic and cross-border fulfillment needs.”

Our promise in the field of e-commerce fulfillment

Aydın continued, “Beyond its technical and operational strengths, this facility symbolizes a broader vision. It reflects our long-term commitment to raising the bar in e-commerce fulfillment and establishing a scalable foundation for future growth. This center is not merely an operational asset; it is a physical embodiment of our vision. It is proof of what can be achieved when strategy, design, technology, and the human factor converge for a common goal. It will be the blueprint for our future facilities, all of which will carry the same DNA of performance, resilience, and customer focus.”

“Smarter, Stronger, and More Scalable E-Commerce Logistics”

Sedat Aydın concluded his remarks by saying, “As we open the doors of this fulfillment center, we’re not just expanding our operational capacity. We’re also enhancing our ability to support our clients in a more holistic, efficient, and intelligent way. We thank our business partners for entrusting their operations to us. We are grateful to our team for turning this vision into reality. And to the future… This is just the beginning. Let this new fulfillment center symbolize the path we will walk together: Smarter, stronger, and more scalable e-commerce logistics.”

Widect: A New Era in Door-to-Door E-Export Logistics with the Assurance of Turkish Airlines

Established within Turkish Airlines to bring more agile and innovative solutions to e-commerce logistics in our country, Widect launched at the end of 2023. Starting operations in the first quarter of 2024, we offer door-to-door delivery service to Turkish e-exporters through the brand power and extensive flight network of Turkish Airlines. In a short time, we have reached over 3 million deliveries, providing our customers with both time and cost advantages, and added value to the sector with our digital solutions that simplify export procedures.

Wide-Direct-Connect (Widect): The DNA of Our Brand

As emphasized in its name, the Widect brand embarked on its journey with the vision of Wide-Direct-Connect. “Wide” represents our ability to reach all corners of the world through Turkish Airlines’ extensive destination network across 140 countries. “Direct” signifies our capability to provide door-to-door direct delivery services to various parts of the world thanks to Turkish Cargo’s logistics expertise. “Connect” reflects Widect’s vision of being a bridge connecting people, cultures, sellers, and buyers from different parts of the world. In this context, we continuously invest in and develop our operations to provide door-to-door services in all countries where we have cargo flights.

The Importance of E-Export for Our Country

Contributing to the development of e-export, which provides numerous benefits such as access to global markets, foreign currency inflow, economic diversification, and increased employment, is among Widect’s greatest motivations. Our main goals are to enhance Türkiye’s export potential, provide the necessary logistics solutions to increase the share of e-export within total exports to 10% by 2028, and position Istanbul as the global hub of e-commerce logistics. In this direction, we aim to exceed USD 1 billion in revenue by 2033 and raise our global market share above 1.5%.

US Tariffs and Impact on the Sector: New Opportunities for Türkiye

The new tariffs recently imposed by the United States on products of Chinese origin have led to significant shifts in global supply chains. Companies that heavily sourced from China are now seeking alternative suppliers, and major marketplaces that had not previously considered purchasing from Türkiye are quickly starting to work with Turkish businesses. The need for Chinese marketplaces to downsize in the US will lead them to focus on countries outside of America and increase competition.

The possibility of trade wars introducing additional tariffs in the global e-commerce flow could slow down growth rates. However, all these developments offer significant opportunities for Türkiye’s exports. At Widect, we are focusing on the US market to seize these opportunities and provide our exporters with a competitive advantage by offering express-speed service at economy pricing.

Artificial Intelligence Transformation in the Sector

Digitalization and artificial intelligence applications in the logistics sector play a critical role in creating competitive advantages. At Widect, we utilize AI in areas such as route optimization, software integrations, and rapid resolution of customer complaints. In doing so, we enhance our operational efficiency and deliver faster and higher-quality service to our customers. Looking ahead, we aim to make our logistics processes even smarter and more flexible through predictive analytics and automation solutions offered by AI.

Target Countries and New Routes

The United States has become our primary focus market following the recent tariffs. Through our fast and cost-effective services to the US, we ensure our exporters benefit from this opportunity to the fullest extent. The US is currently our largest market, and if the tariff balance continues, we expect this market to grow further.

In addition, we are planning to increase the number of injection points in Europe to facilitate direct flights to more countries. Our efforts to launch new services in the Middle East and Turkic Republics are ongoing. Hoping that the war will end soon, we are also preparing our services for Ukraine and Russia. By leading entry into niche markets such as Australia, we aim to enhance the global competitiveness of Turkish e-exporters.

Our Short- and Medium-Term Goals

As part of our growth strategy, we plan to launch our new warehouse in the last quarter of 2026. This new facility, with both handling and fulfillment infrastructure, will become a critical center not only for our own operations but also for our e-exporters. Especially with the implementation of the Domestic Transfer Center (YAM) Regulation, which is being intensively developed by our Ministry of Trade and is of great importance for our sector, Istanbul is expected to become one of the world’s leading e-commerce logistics centers.

With the YAM regulation, the increase in transit shipments and consolidation opportunities will reduce exporters’ logistics costs and further strengthen Istanbul’s position as a global hub. This will enable firms aiming to export to all parts of the world—not just major markets—to access new destinations with affordable logistics costs. Lower logistics costs will remove one of the biggest barriers to micro-exporting and entering new markets, allowing our exporters to send products at competitive prices to destinations that were previously inaccessible due to high costs.

Istanbul’s Journey to Becoming a Global E-Commerce Logistics HUB

Istanbul’s strong connectivity, its ability to reach over 60 capitals within a 7-hour flight, and the fact that nearly 40% of global passenger and cargo traffic passes through the city create a significant locational advantage. To replicate Turkish Airlines’ success in transit passengers and cargo in cross-border door-to-door shipments, we have initiated infrastructure and sorter investments. With regulatory adjustments that facilitate exports and transit cargo shipments, we will fully leverage Istanbul’s advantages and contribute to its transformation into a global e-commerce logistics hub.

The MENA Region and Türkiye’s Strategic Position

Türkiye occupies the most ideal location in the region for global transportation. It is particularly strategic for Asia and Middle East routes. As a bridge between Europe and Asia, we prioritize the sustainability of supply chain processes in the MENA region. Leveraging Istanbul’s location, we will rapidly dispatch shipments arriving from the Middle East to European countries without delays—thereby expanding the MENA trade volume, strengthening Türkiye’s transit network, and increasing efficiency and added value in commercial activities.

Sectoral Expectations and Future Outlook

Exporters expect increased market diversity, fast, reliable, cost-effective, trackable, and seamless logistics processes, and simplified customs procedures. At Widect, we continuously improve our services by following global trends and customer demands, working to simplify every process we touch. With digital transformation in the sector, new balances in global trade, and Türkiye’s strategic advantages, we are working with all our strength to maximize our country’s export potential.

With our vision to make Istanbul the center of global e-commerce logistics, we invite all industry stakeholders to join us on this journey. We will continue to work to enhance Türkiye’s export potential, increase the share of e-export within total exports, and position our country as a leader in global logistics.

Air Cargo is Growing in Türkiye!