Article 4: Binh Duong’s Logistics Workforce – Development Opportunities and Challenges

Current Workforce Situation

Although the logistics workforce is growing, it still does not meet actual industry demands. Companies in Binh Duong seek professionals with expertise in supply chain management, logistics technology, and digital transformation. However, most workers rely on practical experience rather than formal logistics education.

Currently, logistics personnel in Binh Duong can be categorized into three main groups:

- General laborers – handling basic tasks such as loading/unloading, warehouse operations, and truck driving.

- Mid-level logistics staff – involved in warehouse coordination, transport planning, and customs clearance; requiring specialized knowledge and practical skills.

- Logistics strategists & technology experts – responsible for supply chain optimization, strategic management, and digital integration.

The third category is critically lacking, yet it is key to Binh Duong’s vision of becoming a modern logistics hub.

Key Positions Facing Talent Shortages

Many logistics businesses in Binh Duong are struggling to recruit professionals for roles such as:

- Supply chain managers
- Logistics data analysts
- Multimodal transport coordinators
- Logistics technology engineers
- Customs and e-clearance specialists

These positions require not only technical expertise but also knowledge of technology, foreign languages, and the ability to operate in international markets.

Despite rising workforce needs, Binh Duong’s logistics education and training system still lags behind industry requirements.

Current Training Programs in Binh Duong

The province currently has four universities and several vocational training centers offering logistics-related programs. However, the annual number of graduates remains low, and many programs focus too much on theory rather than practical training.

Shortcomings in Skills Development

One of the biggest gaps in Binh Duong’s logistics workforce is the lack of soft skills and foreign language proficiency.

- Over 60% of logistics companies report that their employees struggle with English, especially technical logistics terminology.

- Limited communication and negotiation skills make it challenging for logistics professionals to work effectively with international clients and supply chain partners.

Weak Industry-Education Linkages

There is a significant gap between educational institutions and logistics businesses. Many graduates lack hands-on experience, forcing companies to spend additional time and resources on retraining.

To support sustainable logistics growth, Binh Duong needs a comprehensive strategy to improve workforce quality.

Expanding Practical Training Programs

Local universities and vocational schools must modernize their curricula to provide students with more practical experience, including:

- Internship programs in collaboration with leading logistics companies.

- Simulation labs that replicate real-world logistics operations such as warehouse management and freight coordination.

- Courses on digital logistics, including e-Logistics, blockchain for supply chains, and AI-driven logistics management.

Encouraging Enterprises to Invest in Training

In addition to formal education, logistics businesses should actively participate in workforce development by:

- Offering in-house training programs to upskill employees.

- Providing tax incentives for companies that invest in employee training and development.

- Partnering with logistics technology firms to equip employees with digital logistics skills.

Enhancing Foreign Language & Soft Skills Training

To prepare the workforce for international logistics operations, Binh Duong should:

- Introduce English-for-logistics courses at universities and training centers.

- Collaborate with global logistics organizations to develop internationally recognized training programs.

- Encourage businesses to conduct internal English training for employees.

CONCLUSION

Human resources are the foundation of a strong logistics sector. While Binh Duong has significant potential, it must prioritize workforce development to meet industry demands and sustain long-term growth.

The province must act quickly to:

1. Revamp logistics training programs to focus on real-world applications.

2. Strengthen industry-academic partnerships to bridge the education-to-employment gap.

3. Develop foreign language and soft skills among logistics professionals.

If Binh Duong successfully implements these workforce strategies, it will not only overcome its labor shortages but also create a highly skilled logistics workforce that attracts global investors and strengthens its role as a major logistics hub in Southeast Asia.