لخّصلي

One contemporary issue that the ASYAD Group may experience as a challenge or
opportunity in the near future or 3-5 years is the digital transformation of the logistics
industry. The increasing adoption of digital technologies and the emergence of new business
models are reshaping the logistics landscape, and ASYAD Group needs to adapt to stay
competitive. Here are some aspects related to this issue:

1. Technology adoption: The logistics industry is undergoing significant technological
   advancements, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain,
   and big data analytics. ASYAD Group may need to invest in and adopt these technologies to
   enhance operational efficiency, optimize supply chains, and improve customer experience.
   Embracing technology can provide opportunities for process automation, real-time tracking
   and visibility, predictive analytics, and advanced data-driven decision-making.


2. E-commerce growth: The rise of e-commerce is transforming the logistics industry. As
   consumers increasingly shop online, there is a growing demand for efficient last-mile
   delivery and fulfilment services. ASYAD Group can capitalize on this trend by partnering
   with e-commerce platforms, developing specialized logistics solutions for e-commerce
   merchants, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance customer engagement and
   satisfaction.


3. Supply chain resilience: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of supply
   chain resilience. Companies are now more focused on building agile and resilient supply
   chains to mitigate disruptions. ASYAD Group can support its customers by offering end-to-
   end supply chain solutions that enhance visibility, risk management, and responsiveness. This
   can involve leveraging digital technologies, implementing contingency plans, and
   collaborating with partners to ensure supply chain continuity.


4. Sustainability and green logistics: Environmental sustainability is a growing concern in the
   logistics industry. Customers, regulators, and stakeholders are increasingly demanding
   greener logistics practices. ASYAD Group can embrace sustainable initiatives, such as
   optimizing routes for fuel efficiency, adopting electric or alternative fuel vehicles, and
   implementing eco-friendly packaging and waste management strategies. This can present an
   opportunity to differentiate the company and attract environmentally conscious customers.


5. Talent and skills development: The digital transformation of the logistics industry requires
   a skilled workforce that can leverage technology effectively. ASYAD Group may face
   challenges in attracting and retaining talent with the necessary digital skills and expertise.
   Investing in employee training and development programs, fostering a culture of innovation,
   and collaborating with educational institutions can help address this challenge and ensure the
   company has the right talent to drive its digital transformation initiatives.
   It's worth noting that the specific challenges and opportunities related to the digital
   transformation of the logistics industry can vary based on regional dynamics, market
   conditions, and the competitive landscape. ASYAD Group should continuously monitor
   industry trends, engage in strategic partnerships, and proactively adapt its business model and
   operations to capitalize on the opportunities and address the challenges presented by the
   digital era.

The evolution of contemporary issues:
The contemporary issues faced by the ASYAD Group have evolved with the changing
dynamics of the logistics industry. Over the years, several factors have contributed to the
emergence of these issues and shaped the current landscape. Let's explore the evolution of
these contemporary issues:

1. Globalization and trade liberalization: The process of globalization and the liberalization of
   trade have led to increased international trade and the expansion of supply chains. As trade
   volumes grew, the logistics industry faced new challenges in managing complex global
   supply networks, ensuring efficient transportation, and meeting customer demands for faster
   and more reliable services.


2. Technological advancements: The rapid advancement of technology has played a
   significant role in shaping the contemporary issues faced by the ASYAD Group. The advent
   of the internet, digital platforms, and disruptive technologies such as IoT, AI, and blockchain
   has transformed the logistics landscape. These technologies have the potential to optimize
   operations, enhance visibility, and improve customer experience, but they also require
   significant investments and organizational adjustments.


3. E-commerce boom: The rise of e-commerce has revolutionized the retail sector and had a
   profound impact on the logistics industry. With the increasing popularity of online shopping,
   there is a growing demand for efficient last-mile delivery, fulfilment centres, and reverse
   logistics. This has created both challenges and opportunities for logistics companies to adapt
   their operations to cater to the unique requirements of e-commerce customers.


4. Sustainability and environmental concerns: In recent years, there has been a growing focus
   on sustainability and environmental responsibility in various industries, including logistics.
   Concerns over carbon emissions, waste management, and the ecological impact of
   transportation have led to increased pressure on logistics companies to adopt greener
   practices. This has prompted the ASYAD Group to explore sustainable solutions, such as
   alternative fuels, route optimization, and eco-friendly packaging.


5. Supply chain disruptions: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of global
   supply chains to unexpected disruptions. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and disruptions in
   manufacturing and distribution networks caused significant challenges for logistics
   companies. This event emphasized the need for resilient supply chains, contingency planning,
   and enhanced visibility to mitigate and respond effectively to future disruptions.


6. Digital transformation: The digital transformation of the logistics industry has become a
   key contemporary issue for the ASYAD Group. The integration of digital technologies,
   automation, and data analytics is reshaping traditional logistics processes and offering new
   opportunities for efficiency and innovation. Embracing digital transformation is crucial for
   the ASYAD Group to stay competitive and provide enhanced services to its customers.
   As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the ASYAD Group will need to navigate
   these contemporary issues proactively. By staying abreast of industry trends, leveraging
   technology, fostering partnerships, and adapting its business strategies, the ASYAD Group
   can effectively address these challenges and seize opportunities for growth and success in the
   dynamic logistics landscape.

History:
‏ ASYAD - the most comprehensive logistics group in the Middle East, including ports,
free zones and multimodal transport. The Omani International Logistics Group “ASYAD”
was established in 2016 to maximize the economic and financial returns on government
investments in ports, free zones, sea and land transport companies, and logistics services. The
government also entrusted ASYAD with the responsibility of: Achieving the ambitions of the
Sultanate’s national logistics strategy. The company’s vision: We aspire to become one of the
ten largest companies providing services in the world.
Course action to contemporary issue:
‏ Asyad Express establishes a strategic partnership with Every, a leading e-commerce
company in the United Kingdom. This partnership will pave the way for major companies
from the UK, US and China to benefit from ASYAD Group’s integrated logistics system
through exclusive facilities. This partnership provides UK and European retailers the
opportunity to expand into the Middle East e-commerce market and will also help create
opportunities for SMEs in the Sultanate to access global markets for their products through an
advanced electronic marketing network.
Asyad Express, a subsidiary of Asyad Group, continues to strengthen its position in
the logistics sector by announcing a strategic partnership with Avery, one of the largest parcel
delivery companies in the United Kingdom. Promoting foreign direct investment in the
Sultanate of Oman. The conference was recently held in London, United Kingdom - within
the annual conference of the Omani-British Friendship Society to strengthen economic
relations between the two countries. It is expected that this cooperation will constitute a
qualitative leap in the field of e-commerce and the logistics services canter in the Middle East
region, reflecting the Sultanate’s regional position in the field of e-commerce services.
The complying of the company:
The company is committed to action regarding the digital transformation of the
logistics industry, which is a dynamic and continuous process, where companies are
constantly adapting their strategies and initiatives to keep pace with technological advances.
Many logistics companies around the world are realizing the importance of digital
transformation in improving efficiency, visibility, and customer experience. The logistics
industry is adopting technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things
(IoT), and data analytics to improve supply chain operations, automate processes, and
enhance decision-making.
Given the increasing importance of digital transformation in the logistics sector,
ASYAD Oman is exploring opportunities to leverage digital technologies and enhance its
operational capabilities. One example of this is ASYAD has entered a strategic partnership
with Every, one of the leading e-commerce companies in the UK where they are investing in
modernizing their infrastructure, adopting advanced software solutions, collaborating with
technology partners, and enhancing digital literacy among their workforces'.
The company challenges and opportunities:

The digital transformation of the logistics industry presents challenges and
opportunities for the company. Here are some of the most prominent challenges and
opportunities:
Challenges:

1. Infrastructure and Connectivity: One of the major challenges of digital transformation in
   the logistics industry is the need for robust infrastructure and high-speed connectivity. In
   some areas, including remote areas, the availability and reliability of Internet connectivity
   may pose challenges to effectively implementing digital solutions.


2. Implementation cost: Implementing digital technologies and transforming existing systems
   is expensive. Investments need to be made in acquiring new hardware, software and the
   necessary IT infrastructure. ASYAD may face financial challenges in obtaining these
   resources.


3. Skills Gaps and Workforce Transformation: Digital transformation requires a skilled
   workforce capable of working with new technologies and adapting to changing processes.
   The company may face challenges in upskilling its employees or attracting new talent with
   the necessary digital skills.


4. Data security and privacy: As digital systems generate and handle vast amounts of data,
   ensuring data security and privacy becomes crucial. The company needs to invest in strong
   cybersecurity measures and comply with privacy regulations to protect sensitive information
   from breaches and unauthorized access.
   Opportunities:


5. Process efficiency and automation: Digital transformation allows the automation of various
   logistics processes, such as order management, inventory tracking, and transportation routing.
   By leveraging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things
   (IoT), Asyad Oman can streamline operations, reduce manual errors and improve overall
   efficiency.


6. Enhanced visibility and transparency: Digital solutions provide real-time visibility into the
   entire supply chain, enabling ASYAD to track shipments, monitor inventory levels, and
   optimize routes. This visibility enhances transparency, allowing for better customer service
   and improved decision-making.


7. Improving customer experience: Digital transformation enables improved customer
   experiences through features such as online tracking, self-service portals and personalized
   communication. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.


8. Data-driven insights: Digital technologies generate vast amounts of data, which can be
   leveraged to gain actionable insights. By analysing this data, a company can identify trends,
   improve operations, and make informed business decisions to drive growth and
   competitiveness.


9. Collaboration and integration: Digital transformation facilitates seamless collaboration and
   integration between various stakeholders in the logistics ecosystem, including suppliers,
   partners and customers. Oman's ASYAD can leverage digital platforms to strengthen
   partnerships, improve coordination and create a more connected logistics network.

It is important for a company to face the challenges associated with digital
transformation while seizing the opportunities it presents. A well-planned strategy,
investment in infrastructure and talent, and focus on data security can help a company
successfully navigate its digital transformation journey. In addition, there may be a need to
retrain or hire employees with the digital skills necessary to operate these technologies
effectively.
Moreover, digitalization allows the collection and analysis of huge amounts of data.
By leveraging data analysis tools, valuable insights into customer behaviour, demand patterns
and operational efficiency can be gained. This data-driven approach helps make informed
strategic decisions, optimize routes, and forecast demand, leading to improved resource
allocation and reduced costs. Digital transformation opens opportunities for collaboration and
integration within the logistics ecosystem. This is what happened with Asyad and its
partnership with Every, a UK e-commerce company to supply technology, startups, and other
logistics companies to develop innovative solutions and create new business models.
While the digital transformation of the logistics industry poses challenges to the
company, it also presents significant opportunities. By embracing digital technologies,
investing in infrastructure and skills, and leveraging data analytics, ASYAD can enhance its
operational efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and explore new avenues for growth
and collaboration in the evolving logistics landscape.
The company expected complying:
Oman is taking remarkable steps to develop its logistics sector to be one of the main
pillars of the nation’s non-oil-based economy in the future. The current fluctuation in oil
prices has pressured the country to boost non-oil exports and re-exports to eventually replace
oil export in the future as the main income. The aim of this research is to utilize an
augmented form of gravity model to investigate the effect of GDP, population growth,
distance, free trade agreements (FTAs), political relations, and cultural similarity on the value
of non-oil exports and re-exports with the top 35 trading partners. This work sets the
foundation for researchers to better understand the spatial placement of logistics hubs in
Oman and the political influence on the national economy.
Similarly, this analysis could be used by port operators and local authorities to re-
evaluate expansion plans of ports and investments in the logistics sector justified by realistic
forecasted demands and scenarios. Undoubtedly, the study reaffirms the importance of
scenario planning and forecasting to provide decision-makers with better look into the future
to make more informed decisions.
The policies of the company
 Asyad Group, a renowned logistics and supply chain company in Oman, has
established strict policies to control its approach to legal and ethical obligations. The
company understands how important it is to adhere to high standards of conduct to ensure not
only legal compliance, but also to uphold its reputation and to positively impact the business
environment.
First, Asyad Group maintains a comprehensive legal compliance policy that
systematically monitors changes in legislation and regulations relevant to its operations. This

proactive approach ensures that the company stays abreast of legal requirements, reducing the
risk of non-compliance. Regular legal audits and assessments are conducted to identify any
areas of improvement and quickly put in place the necessary changes.
Asyad's company culture is deeply rooted in ethical principles. Employee behaviour is
guided by a set of principles and values outlined in the company's code of ethics. Promoting
openness, morality, and ethical business conduct is part of this. Asyad promotes an ethically
conscious workplace where staff members can report transgressions without fear of
retaliation.
In addition, Asyad is dedicated to corporate social responsibility (CSR), which
reflects its commitment to making a beneficial impact on the environment and community.
The corporation takes part in a number of activities, including encouraging sustainable
business practices, helping local communities, and protecting the environment. These
corporate social responsibility initiatives demonstrate Asyad's dedication to upholding ethical
standards as a responsible business citizen.
Asyad upholds strict ethical standards when interacting with contractual and business
partners. The business upholds ethical and open business practices, encouraging an even
playing field for all parties involved. Asyad's dedication to moral business conduct is further
demonstrated by the attention to legality, fairness, and responsibility in the creation of
contracts and agreements.
To sum up, Asyad Group has extensive and varied policies regarding its adherence to
legal and ethical requirements. Asyad places a high priority on upholding the law, acting
morally, and practicing corporate social responsibility in order to fulfil its commitments and
improve Oman's overall socioeconomic environment.