Our Scans · Geopolitics · Key Findings (PINS)

This month’s horizon scanning reveals accelerating geopolitical shifts influenced by supply chain security, digital transformation, and regulatory frameworks affecting technology and trade. Key developments emphasize the increasing intersection of geopolitical strategy with cyber, AI, and economic diplomacy, underscoring evolving risks and opportunities relevant to the Planning Inspectorate’s forward planning towards 2035.

Appeals

• Heightened emphasis on supply chain security in government policies is expected to impact technology procurement and infrastructure resilience in appeal considerations, particularly where digital and autonomous systems are involved (Fluet Law).
• AI assurance standards under NSPM-11 will increasingly influence regulatory frameworks for autonomous technologies, which may affect appeals related to emerging aviation and transport technologies (Autonomy Global).

Applications

• Global automotive production is rebounding strongly, providing favorable market conditions for infrastructure and environmental planning related to transport applications (Persistence Market Research).
• Increased cybersecurity threats to major retailers highlight vulnerabilities in supply chains, with knock-on effects for construction projects reliant on integrated digital systems and logistics (Retail Systems).

Plans Examinations

• Economic diplomacy initiatives such as Vietnam’s focus on building a Halal ecosystem illustrate how geopolitical economic strategies may drive regional development planning, influencing infrastructure and cultural development priorities (Vietnam Tourist).
• The ASEAN Economic Community’s (AEC) 2026-2030 Strategic Plan prioritizes digital transformation and supply chain security, with implications for regional infrastructure planning and cross-border connectivity projects (KBA13).

Cross-cutting Trends

• Cybersecurity concerns related to supply chain and third-party vulnerabilities are a critical geopolitical risk factor, reflecting broad dependency on interconnected digital systems that impact multiple planning and inspection domains (WWEX).
• Implementation of the Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act and associated exclusions (FAR subpart 4.23) will affect government contracting programs that incorporate AI and autonomous capabilities, shaping the regulatory environment for technologically advanced applications (Fluet Law).