The rapid global expansion of artificial intelligence is creating an unprecedented logistics challenge as companies accelerate the construction of data centres needed to support next-generation computing. This growing demand formed the focus of discussions at Dimerco Express Group’s “Beyond the Next Horizon” Supply Chain Summit in Taipei, where the company celebrated its 55th anniversary alongside more than 150 customers and supply chain experts.
AI infrastructure consists of thousands of interconnected components produced across multiple countries before being assembled into fully operational AI data centers. According to reports, demand for data centers is expected to nearly triple between now and 2030, while global spending on building and upgrading these facilities is projected to reach nearly $7 trillion. Unlike conventional consumer electronics, AI infrastructure depends on the coordinated transportation of oversized, high-value and highly sensitive equipment manufactured across Asia and shipped to hyperscale data centers being developed worldwide. The scale, timing and complexity of these operations are placing new demands on global logistics providers, with air cargo playing an essential role in supporting time-sensitive deliveries.
Dimerco CEO Outlines Complex Logistics Requirements
Addressing attendees at the summit, Dimerco CEO Jeffrey Shih described the scale of the transformation taking place across global supply chains.
“Just as factories once required steel, machinery, and railroads, AI requires massive data centers. Every server, switch, cooling unit, and power system must be manufactured, transported across the globe, cleared through customs, stored, and delivered to data centers safely, securely and on time,” she said.
Shih also noted that faster deployment schedules and increasing equipment values are raising expectations for logistics providers handling these complex shipments. He explained that companies must respond to challenges that include trade compliance, stepped-up export control measures, managing risk for shipments valued in the tens of millions of (USD) dollars, ensuring damage-free handling of highly delicate equipment, and coordinating precisely timed deliveries to data centres under construction.
AI Infrastructure Reshapes Premium Air Cargo Demand
The summit also examined the evolving impact of AI infrastructure on the air cargo market. While eCommerce continues to represent a significant source of freight demand, participants discussed how the rapid deployment of AI servers, networking equipment and other high-value infrastructure is creating one of the fastest-growing segments of premium air freight. Large volumes of this equipment are moving from manufacturing centres across Asia to hyperscale data centers under construction around the world, reinforcing the growing importance of specialized logistics solutions capable of meeting the strict handling, security and delivery requirements associated with AI infrastructure.
