Japan logistics industry professional development

The Japan Logistics Systems Association (JILS) is organizing several initiatives to address industry challenges and professional development. In October 2026, the association will host the Logistics National Convention in Tokyo and online. This convention aims to address logistics as a management priority, focusing on AI implementation, physical AI, and responses to cyberattacks. A notable session will feature a case study from Asahi Group Japan regarding their transition from system failure to manual processing following a 2025 cyberattack.

As part of the 2026 lecture series, OptiMind CEO Ken Matsushita is scheduled to speak at the Logistics National Convention on October 6. His presentation, titled ‘AI that can solve logistics, and AI that cannot,’ will analyze the distinctions between learning-based, optimization-based, operational logic, and generative AI to assist management in technology selection.

Regional events will also take place throughout October and November. In the Kansai region on October 20, presentations will feature 11 case studies from 10 companies, including Ezaki Glico, Kubota Logistics, and Misumi Group, with Kubota providing a special lecture on corporate transformation. In Kyushu, events on October 29 and November 27 will feature speakers from Subaru and SBS Holdings focusing on technology strategies and logistics-driven reform.

Following these events, JILS will launch its 94th Logistics Basic Course online in November 2026. This six-day program is designed for new employees and personnel to learn fundamental logistics functions, including transportation, storage, inventory management, and information systems.