Sep 23, 2026|
JINGDONG Industrials Highlights AI and Local Supply Chains at World Economic Forum ASEAN Digital Economy Dialogue
JINGDONG Industrials (also known as JD Industrials), the industrial supply chain technology and service provider under JD.com, joined government and business leaders in Manila on September 19 for the World Economic Forum’s Business Dialogue on ASEAN’s Digital Economy 2026. The event offered an opportunity to share perspectives on how AI, localized supply chains and talent development can support the region’s digital transformation.
Peter Chen, Head of JINGDONG Industrials Asia Pacific, participated in the high-level panel “ASEAN Digital Economy 2026: From Vision to Implementation”. The discussion explored how public- and private-sector collaboration can translate ASEAN’s digital ambitions into tangible outcomes for businesses and the wider economy. His main argument was that technology brings the most value when it is applied to real-world problems. AI becomes meaningful when it reaches warehouses, customs processes, small businesses and other everyday parts of the economy.
Chen also exchanged perspectives with senior government and business representatives during the programme on the development of ASEAN’s digital economy and opportunities for deeper regional collaboration.
Bringing AI into Real-World Supply Chains
For JINGDONG Industrials, the value of AI lies not simply in advances in model capabilities, but in how effectively the technology can be integrated into real business operations.
The company is applying AI across industrial supply chain scenarios including procurement, production planning, equipment maintenance, warehousing, transportation and quality management. Its recently upgraded JoyIndustrial 2.0 industrial foundation model supports an AI application framework spanning different stages of procurement, helping businesses improve decision-making and operational efficiency.
As AI is increasingly woven into industrial operations, Chen noted that technology needs to work alongside supply chain expertise and a strong understanding of local business environments. “Localization is not about simply replicating a model from another market. It is about building capabilities with local partners, developing local talent and strengthening local supply chains, while improving the transparency and connectivity of the broader network,” he said.
Building Supply Chains Around Local Needs
JINGDONG Industrials has been expanding its local supply chain and service capabilities across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam, serving businesses in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, electronics, electrical equipment, energy and automotive components.
In Thailand, for example, the company has developed multiple fulfillment models to accommodate different procurement needs. Locally sourced products can be delivered through local supply channels, while longer-cycle procurement can draw on a broader sourcing network. For more time-sensitive requirements, locally stocked inventory can support delivery within two to three days. Its inventory facility in the Laem Chabang port area also provides proximity to key industrial areas, with materials able to reach Rayong in around one hour and the Bangkok area in around two hours.
This localized approach extends beyond logistics and fulfillment. JINGDONG Industrials is also working to strengthen local partnerships and develop local teams as its business grows across the region.
“As we grow internationally, our goal is to become part of the local business ecosystem,” Chen said. “That means working with local partners, building local supply chain and fulfillment capabilities, and investing in local talent. Southeast Asia has an impressive pool of young talent, and developing those capabilities locally will be important for the region’s long-term industrial growth.”
Contributing to ASEAN’s Digital Economy Dialogue
The World Economic Forum’s Manila dialogue brought together around 150 senior representatives from governments, businesses, international organizations, civil society and academia to explore how ASEAN can turn its digital ambitions into practical outcomes. The programme also featured the launch of the ASEAN Digital Economy Outlook 2026 and discussions on the implementation of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), AI and digital trade, MSME participation, interoperability and digital trust, with a broader focus on strengthening regional connectivity and building a more integrated and inclusive digital economy.
JINGDONG Industrials’ participation reflects its continued focus on Southeast Asia as an important long-term market and its commitment to engaging in regional conversations on digitalization, supply chains and industrial development.
As ASEAN moves from digital ambition toward implementation, JINGDONG Industrials will continue to engage with local businesses, partners and stakeholders, while investing in local capabilities, partnerships and technology applications that respond to the practical needs of businesses across the region.
(vivian.yang@jd.com)
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