Latin America and the Caribbean are on the brink of some exciting changes, especially in transport and communication. Many places here are still playing catch-up with modern roads and tech. This gap presents a golden opportunity for new ideas. These fresh approaches can bring in money from private companies and make transporting goods a whole lot smoother.
A Quick Look at Mexico’s Transport Scene
Mexico gives us a great example of where things stand. According to the National Chamber of Freight Transport (CANACAR), only about two-thirds of trucking businesses have basic tech tools like computers or cellphones. That’s a bit of a head-scratcher, especially when you consider how bustling Mexico’s northern border is. It’s a trade hotspot, moving a major chunk of exports to the US and bringing in imports in 2020. [1]
After the pandemic shook up the supply chain, there are now 54,000 job openings for truck drivers in Mexico. But, not many are jumping at the opportunity due to long hours, unpredictability, constant changes in rules, and issues with getting paid on time.
How Tech Can Make Things Better
Even though it sounds tough, tech can really help make things better. New business models, like Telecom as a Service (TaaS), are popping up. These are like easy-to-use tech platforms that let transport companies act like mobile phone companies without the headache of setting up all the infrastructure.
OXIO has come up with a solution that uses existing networks to create a custom one. This makes it easy for companies to stay in touch with their drivers and helps drivers stay connected with their families during long hours on the road.
TaaS technology is flexible and lets companies create custom plans quickly. It can help make drivers feel safer, keep track of trucks, plan routes better, and move payments online.
Improving Safety and Work with TaaS
TaaS can also help improve safety for workers by tracking them through GPS and keeping them informed about delays or accidents. Plus, platforms like OXIO can help keep an eye on how drivers use their phones, which can be useful when looking at job performance.
Delivery companies find TaaS useful because it’s cost-effective and provides better connection options. By having their own communication network, companies can offer better service without making drivers use their own phone data.
TaaS: The Next Big Thing in Latin American Transport
There’s a growing trend towards digital solutions in Latin America’s transport industry, and TaaS seems to be in demand. The growth of cities and the support from cloud technology are pushing this new way of staying connected forward.
