Over the past two years, global trade has experienced significant growth, driven by economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. The reactivation of supply chains and pent-up demand from consumers and businesses have been key factors in this rebound. According to the World Bank, global trade grew by approximately 10% in 2022, a significant figure compared to the contraction seen during 2020 and the early months of 2021.
One of the most visible effects of this growth has been the transformation of the global industry. Firstly, the increase in demand for goods has put greater pressure on supply chains, accelerating the digitization and automation of logistical processes. Companies have invested in technology to optimize inventory management and distribution, aiming to prevent future disruptions and increase their resilience. In particular, the adoption of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence has improved efficiency in production and transportation.
However, this growth has also highlighted challenges. The reliance on certain regions for manufacturing, particularly in Asia, has caused bottlenecks and delays in product deliveries. Additionally, the war in Ukraine and geopolitical tensions have exacerbated volatility in energy and raw material prices, affecting the stability of some industries, especially in Europe.
In the long term, the growth of global trade is also driving greater economic integration between countries, creating new opportunities for industrial development. However, this process also faces challenges related to sustainability and the need to balance economic growth with environmental protection. Global industries will need to adapt to this changing landscape to remain competitive in an interconnected and constantly evolving world.