AI in ports: promise and peril

That was the clear message from a recent webinar hosted by the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH), entitled ‘How can we expect quantum computing and AI to impact port security?’

Experts discussed the rapidly growing role of AI in ports, highlighting its benefits across logistics, maintenance, cargo handling and emissions reduction. From predictive analytics that improve vessel scheduling to automated customs and intelligent surveillance systems, AI is already reshaping port operations.

“This is not about marginally better operation,” said David Lederhendler, chief executive of Yeji Data Lab. “This is fundamentally redefining what’s possible in logistics.”

However, the same digital capabilities that enhance operations also introduce new risks. AI systems rely on interconnected networks and massive data sets, increasing the potential for cyberattacks. “Malicious actors can manipulate AI to learn incorrect patterns or bypass security,” warned Lederhendler. “The answer is not to avoid technology – that’s a path to irrelevance. The answer is to build security in from the ground up.”

Lederhendler advised ports to understand their current cybersecurity posture, prioritise operations that benefit most from smart systems, consider hybrid cloud and on-premise solutions, invest in workforce training and stay ahead of evolving regulations.

Quantum computing: too fast for encryption

Quantum computing, while still emerging, was also identified as a future disruptor. Its ability to process data exponentially faster than classical systems means it could eventually break current encryption standards.

“Even if ports haven’t deployed quantum systems, criminals are already harvesting encrypted data to decrypt later,” said Gadi Benmosche, vice chair of the IAPH Data Collaboration Committee and managing director of Marinnovators Consulting.

He urged ports to assess critical data systems now, ensure encryption standards are up to date, and plan for a transition to post-quantum security protocols. “Quantum may also bring solutions, like better spam and phishing detection via quantum machine learning, but ports must prepare now.”

‘It’s about the people’

Chloe Rowland, senior manager for Data Collaboration, Risk & Resilience at IAPH, emphasised the human factor, and called for harmonised international regulations and robust cyber awareness training for port staff, noting that ports operate in a global ecosystem where consistent standards are essential.

As AI and quantum computing continue to evolve, experts agreed: ports that embrace innovation responsibly by embedding cybersecurity and investing in skills will emerge stronger, more resilient and globally competitive.

“Ports are part of a critical, connected infrastructure,” concluded Lederhendler. “The ones that will thrive in the future are those that recognise and act on the twin promise and risk of AI and quantum.”