LojiDer Holds First Congress to Support Logistics Sector Development
To promote the development of the logistics sector and bring together industry representatives, the Logistics Association (LojiDer) held its first congress on October 30, marking its one-year anniversary. Sponsored by DFDS, the congress addressed sector innovations and challenges, discussing strategies for the future under topics such as international logistics corridors, artificial intelligence, digitalization, and post-disaster logistics.
Dr. Kayıhan Özdemir Turan "LojiDer Unites All Companies in the Sector"
LojiDer President Dr. Kayıhan Özdemir Turan emphasized the association’s mission to unite all companies in the logistics sector during his opening speech. “Today, we have 325 members across seven regions, and our goal is to reach 500 members from 35 cities. We provide employment for approximately 15,000 people and contribute $2.7 billion in economic value,” he said. Turan highlighted LojiDer’s international collaborations and educational initiatives, noting that five universities have signed cooperation protocols to support logistics education. He also announced projects aimed at integrating young talent into the sector, adding, “We became the second association to earn certification under Erasmus projects, and we will be sending 25 students abroad for internship training,” underscoring the importance of education.
Fuat Pamukçu "No Need to Search for Solutions Far Away"
DFDS Vice President of Marketing, Business Development, and Strategy, Fuat Pamukçu, opened his speech by celebrating the 101st anniversary of the Republic, saying, “There’s no need to look far for solutions. We are the descendants of a nation willing to sacrifice everything 100 years ago.”
Highlighting the significant role of Turkish logistics firms in global trade, Pamukçu stated, "Public-private sector collaboration is essential. We strive to do our job to the best of our ability while honoring our Republic and country.” He stressed the importance of resilience in the logistics sector against global risks, concluding his speech with, “Never give up.”
Başaran Bayrak "Logistics is the Key to Success in Exports"
Turkish Exporters Assembly (TİM) Board Member Başaran Bayrak pointed out that as Turkey’s foreign trade volume grows, the importance of logistics in exports becomes more evident. “The heart of exports beats when goods cross borders. Strengthening our logistics infrastructure is essential for our country. Robust logistics services offer a strategic advantage for exporters. Today, Turkey's foreign trade volume has reached $617 billion. Solutions that reduce costs and expedite processes are crucial,” he said. Emphasizing the need for sustainable logistics solutions, Bayrak expressed a goal for Turkey to rank among the top 10 countries in intermodal transport.
Emre Alkin "A Sustainable Structure Must Be Established"
Professor Dr. Emre Alkin also spoke at the congress, focusing on the importance of sustainability and human resources in logistics. “For Turkey to establish a stronger position in global logistics, we need to rethink our organizational structures and human resources. Building a sustainable structure is vital for the future of the sector,” he stated. Alkin emphasized the need for the logistics sector to closely follow global trends and adopt innovative approaches and modern management strategies to thrive in a competitive environment.
Source: LOJIYOL