The Agility Logistics Index for 2026 reveals that global logistics executives are preparing for a year of unprecedented volatility, turning to artificial intelligence, cost discipline, and supply chain redesign to navigate uncertainty. According to the latest survey of 503 industry professionals, 86% expect heightened volatility throughout 2026 or view trade, political, and economic disruptions as the “new normal.”
AI Adoption Reaches Near-Universal Levels
The Agility Logistics Index survey reveals near-universal adoption of artificial intelligence in the logistics sector, with 98% of participants confirming their companies use AI technologies to manage parts of their supply chains or operational processes. This widespread integration demonstrates how the industry is leveraging technology to address mounting challenges and improve efficiency across global operations.
Tarek Sultan, Chairman of Agility, commented on the current landscape: “Business and government leaders recognize there is no longer room for complacency or safe zones. Everyone is searching for sustainable growth paths in a time characterized by unprecedented ambiguity and instability. They see artificial intelligence as both a contributor to volatility and a tool to manage it simultaneously.”
Supply Chain Restructuring Continues
The survey indicates that shifts in production locations and global sourcing, which began with the COVID-19 pandemic and intensified due to US-China tensions and subsequent tariff increases, continue today. An overwhelming 97% of executives reported that their companies have made or will soon make changes to production and sourcing patterns, reflecting the ongoing transformation of global supply networks.
Top 50 Emerging Markets Rankings
The Agility Logistics Index, now in its 17th annual edition, ranks the top 50 emerging markets worldwide based on comprehensive competitiveness factors including local and international logistics strength, business environment, and digital readiness. China, India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Qatar, Mexico, Thailand, and Brazil secured the top ten positions, with rankings remaining largely stable at the top.
The six Gulf Cooperation Council countries all ranked within the top 12 for best business environment, while China, Malaysia, India, UAE, and Saudi Arabia led in digital readiness. For international logistics opportunities, China, India, Mexico, UAE, and Saudi Arabia topped the rankings.
Gulf Region Positioned as Global Hub
The 2026 index includes in-depth analysis of Gulf Arab economies, where the six Gulf states continue individual and collective efforts to establish themselves as global transit and logistics hubs. Supported by significant investments in AI, energy transition, and human capital development, the GCC region is rated as “thriving” as a link for global trade routes. The report confirms that “volatility will not hinder the Gulf’s ambitions.”
Key Challenges and Sustainability Concerns
Companies view tariffs and protectionist trade policies as the most difficult challenges they may face. To manage trade volatility, they are employing tools including supplier diversification, shipment consolidation, and strategic warehousing. Notably, 48% of survey participants indicated their companies have paused or slowed sustainability efforts due to cost-cutting pressures, changing priorities, and difficulty achieving return on investment.
John Manners-Bell, CEO of Transport Intelligence, which has prepared the index since its 2009 launch, stated: “The phrase ‘structural uncertainty’ has been repeated throughout our research. This concept results from geopolitical divisions, volatile trade policies, and varying economic momentum. The index confirms that supply chain companies are not retreating from this reality but re-engineering their operations to adapt to it.”
