Government resolution: Digitalisation of logistics brings improved efficiency and sustainability in transport

The Government has on 27 May 2021 outlined measures aimed at more efficient, safer and climate-friendly transport in its resolution on the digitalisation of logistics. The goal is also to promote the industry's digital know-how and ensure a level playing field.

The resolution includes, in particular, the central government measures to implement the digitalisation strategy for logistics published in October 2020.

The measures laid down in the resolution aim to make more efficient use of information in transport chains and transport hubs. In addition, the regulatory framework and the information environment will be developed to achieve improved cyber and information security in logistics.

The government resolution is in line with other sustainability projects for the transport system, such as the roadmap for fossil-free transport, the National Transport System Plan (Transport 12) and the Climate and Environmental Strategy for the ICT Sector.

Data plays a key role in the digitalisation of logistics

The introduction of digital solutions requires that the information transmitted in the supply chain is in a digitally readable format. A seamless flow of data enables the automated processing of data and the optimisation of transports. This increases efficiency and cost benefits in logistics and reduces the climate impact of transport. The impacts are scalable from individual delivery up to international transport chains.

The digitalisation of logistics requires investments in the development of data environments and data management in logistics and the competences of the companies utilising them as well as common rules for different national and international transport operators.

"Digitalisation improves the efficiency of transport and facilitates its optimisation in individual supply chains as well as the transport system as a whole. And the introduction of digital solutions can significantly reduce emissions," says Minister of Transport and Communications Timo Harakka.

"I will be appointing a Logistics Digitalisation Forum, which will bring together stakeholders and the authorities to accelerate this development. Finland wants to be at the vanguard of smart transport. Being among the pioneers will strengthen our competitiveness and support employment in the sector," Minister Harakka continues.

The measures outlined in the government resolution are mainly financed from the state budget and existing appropriations. Any measures that require new funding will be separately decided on in the central government spending limits and annual budgets.

The government resolution on the digitalisation of logistics contributes to the objective of Prime Minister Sanna Marin's Government Programme to fully realise the opportunities offered by the digitalisation of transport and to accelerate growth and well-being while reducing transport emissions.

The resolution will also contribute to the EU's green and digital transition objectives and strategic guidelines.

Inquiries:

Maria Rautavirta, Director of Unit, tel. +358 40 718 5975, Twitter: @mrautavirta

Essi Teljo, Senior Officer, tel. +358 50 328 0398