Artificial Intelligence for Efficiency Sustainability and Inclusivity in TradeTech 2025

Automating document processing represents a robust area of AI incorporation. Traditional customs procedures require clerks to process large volumes of paperwork manually, which can lead to human errors and delays. For example, the global logistics provider DSV employs more than 2,500 clerks who handle over half a million declarations each month.  AI transforms processing practices. AI tools can extract information about each shipment from unstructured documentation about goods to ensure that customs forms are accurate. This automation not only accelerates the clearance process but also enhances accuracy by minimizing manual errors, which can result in fees, incorrect taxation information and delays. Another area where AI has shown success is improved cargo scanning. As the volume and complexity of global trade continue to increase, customs authorities face mounting challenges in detecting and intercepting contraband and counterfeit goods. AI can support new forms of data analysis, pattern recognition and predictive modelling that improve detection of high-risk shipments and make more informed decisions in real time. Automation not only accelerates the clearance process but also enhances accuracy by minimizing manual errors, which can result in fees, incorrect taxation information and delays. Tracking tigers, combatting contraband BOX 11 Project SEEKER represents an AI tool specifically designed to improve customs operations. The technology can detect illegally trafficked wildlife concealed within luggage and cargo by alerting enforcement agencies when an illegal wildlife item (such as tiger bones or elephant ivory) is detected. Project SEEKER was trained on X-ray images from baggage scanners in Heathrow Airport, which can scan up to 250,000 bags in a day. It has an over 70% successful detection rate for certain high-value items and complements existing digital security operations without requiring overhaul or modifications. Using cloud technology, Project SEEKER can go beyond single-airport scanning cargo by connecting data patterns to build a comprehensive map of illegal wildlife tracking around the world. Such insights can help regulators identify smuggling routes and improve efforts to combat illegal trafficking. Source: Microsoft DP World – CARGOES Customs BOX 12 DP World’s CARGOES Customs uses AI- based tools to improve customs operations and streamline digitalization. The technology uses AI for:  –Valuation: Cognitive document processing extracts information from supporting trade documents to analyse data mismatches compared to data available in the customs declaration, reducing the manual verification of data. –Classification: Natural language processing helps traders and customs brokers identify Harmonized System (HS) classification based on descriptions of the product. –Risk assessment: Predictive models analyse patterns in historical data to help customs authorities resolve misclassification and undervaluation issues. –Virtual assistants: Chatbots provide declaration and payment statuses, inspection booking information and HS classification services for traders and customs brokers alike.  Source: DP World 23 Artificial Intelligence for Efficiency, Sustainability and Inclusivity in TradeTech