A latest study by DP World has found that disruptions in logistics services result in annual losses of about $16bn for the global technology sector.

The research surveyed senior leaders at technology companies, including those in consumer electronics, robotics, hardware, and data centres.

The reported losses account for 8% of the technology logistics market.

The research was conducted at a time when technology companies are increasing their use of AI, expanding cloud infrastructure, and investing in data centres.

These activities are raising demands for faster delivery, greater reliability, and precise order fulfilment.

At the same time, factors such as changing regulations, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain interruptions are adding pressure to the sector’s global supply chains.

According to the survey, 91% of respondents identified geopolitical instability and trade uncertainty as major influences on their supply chain strategy over the next three years.

Recent changes in US tariff policies affected 70% of surveyed companies. The semiconductor shortage had an impact on 68% of respondents.

The report titled “Without Logistics: Technology Edition” from DP World notes that integrated and resilient logistics systems can help address these challenges.

Companies that invest in areas like warehousing, international shipping, last-mile delivery, regulatory compliance, and sustainability tend to experience lower disruption-related costs each year.

The research also found that focused investment in risk management and resilience planning can reduce these costs by up to 35%.

Strengthening supply chain resilience helps technology firms restore operations quickly, maintain consistent service, and safeguard customer relationships during periods of disruption.

DP World Logistics Group chief operating officer Beat Simon said: “Across the global technology supply chain, disruptions directly affect customer experience, brand strength and commercial performance.

“Our research shows that resilience planning is no longer just about risk management, it’s about ensuring consistent delivery, protecting customer trust and strengthening competitiveness.”

According to the report, disruptions have led to more customer complaints at 87% of responding companies. Additionally, 66% reported losing contracts or business because of supply chain problems.

Another 59% stated that these disruptions had a negative effect on their brand reputation, making reliable delivery a key factor in customer experience.

Many technology companies have limited plans in place for resilience. Half of those surveyed lost over a month of productive time due to disruptions.

Around 17% experienced delays that lasted between three and five months. Longer disruptions increase costs by affecting both service delivery and business operations.

DP World stated that the findings are based on a global survey of 680 senior logistics leaders from eight sectors, including 75 technology-focused supply chain decision-makers.

The research’s data model links disruption costs to logistics investments, company size, and reputational impacts.

DP World Global senior vice president and technology vertical lead Rob Choy said: “Today’s technology consumers demand excellence not just from products but from every stage of delivery. A single logistics disruption can quickly escalate into brand damage and lost revenue.

“That’s why it’s vital to work with a partner that combines global reach with deep experience in technology supply chains.”