State-of-the-art trade tech showcased at Teesside airport

The demonstration took place at the Teesside Digital Trade Testbed, the UK’s first facility of its kind, which allows businesses to trial technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, IoT, geofencing, and digital identities in a real-world environment.

It was organised by Teesside University, Tees Valley Combined Authority, Teesside Freeport, ICC United Kingdom, and the International Centre for Digital Trade and Innovation.

The demonstration took place at the Teesside Digital Trade Testbed (Image: Supplied)

Professor Stephen Cummings, pro vice-chancellor for research and knowledge exchange at Teesside University, said: “The Digital Trade Testbed is a cornerstone of Teesside University’s commitment to innovation and economic growth.

“It empowers businesses to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and boost security through digital transformation.”

The event was attended by policymakers, industry figures, and technology leaders.

Sessions and demonstrations were structured around three themes including one on today’s current trade practices, showcasing inefficient paper-based systems.

The second theme focused on ‘building the foundations’ looking at border processed, sandbox environments and SME tools.

Theme three looked at ‘what great looks like’, focused on paperless trade systems, and included the unveiling on an Aurrigo autonomous vehicle set to operate at the airport later this year.

Professor David Hughes, Associate Dean (Research and Innovation) at Teesside University’s School of Computing, Engineering & Digital Technologies, said: “This project places Teesside University at the heart of pioneering solutions for the future of international trade.

“In doing so, it aligns perfectly with our mission to utilise our industry-informed expertise to deliver solutions which empower business and make this region a hub for innovation.

“By reducing administrative burdens – which account for up to 15% of trade costs – digital trade will help UK businesses save billions while promoting sustainability and efficiency.”

Inside the autonomous Aurrigo vehicle (Image: Supplied)

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Having led the way in creating the Teesside Freeport, this new testbed shows how we’re going even further to lead the way in making it easier for our local firms to trade internationally, and how we’re pioneering technology right here on Teesside which will have an impact on global trade.”

Chris Southworth, secretary general of ICC UK, said: “The Teesside Digital Trade Testbed is a world-leading asset and set to be a critical part of the UK’s innovation ecosystem.

“I’m not aware of anywhere else like it in the world, so it’s fantastic to see it up and running and showcase it to industry.

“This will play a key part in bringing trade and commerce into the 21st century and firmly establish Teesside at the centre of that transformation.”