BigBear.ai, a leading provider of AI-powered decision intelligence solutions for national security, travel, and trade, has been invited to participate in the Business Alliance for Secure Commerce (BASC) Panama 2025 International Forum. The forum, scheduled for April 29, 2025, in Panama City, Panama, will bring together global leaders in finance, logistics, maritime operations, and international trade to discuss the future of secure and competitive commerce, with a particular focus on Panama's role in the global economy. Event Overview and Key Figures The BASC Panama 2025 International Forum aims to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in today’s trade ecosystem, particularly focusing on port modernization, supply chain security, and regulatory shifts. Under the theme "Navigating Panama’s Maritime and Logistics Future: Security for Global Trade," the event will provide a platform for cross-sector dialogue and collaboration. Representing BigBear.ai at the forum are several key figures with extensive experience in national security and logistics: - Kevin McAleenan, CEO of BigBear.ai - Troy A. Miller, Former Acting Commissioner of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) - Todd C. Owen, President of the Cross Border Advisory Network, LLC, and Former Executive Assistant Commissioner (EAC) of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations (OFO) - James (Jim) McLaughlin, Senior Vice President, Technology Solutions, BigBear.ai - Brian Lodwig, Vice President of Homeland Security Delivery, BigBear.ai - Ryan M. Rawding, Vice President of Homeland Security Business Development, BigBear.ai CEO's Statement and Focus Areas Kevin McAleenan, CEO of BigBear.ai, expressed enthusiasm about the company’s participation. He stated, "BigBear.ai looks forward to contributing our expertise during discussions on port modernization, supply chain security, and the regulatory shifts shaping global commerce. This event marks an important step in fostering cross-sector cooperation and identifying actionable strategies for a safer, more agile international trade environment." The company's involvement aligns with its commitment to enhancing secure trade and logistics through advanced AI and analytics. BigBear.ai’s solutions are designed to operate in highly complex, distributed, and mission-critical environments, making them well-suited to contribute to discussions on improving global supply chain resilience and security. Importance of the Event The forum is significant for several reasons: - Global Trade Security: It emphasizes the importance of securing global trade routes against threats like smuggling, drug trafficking, and terrorism. - Port Modernization: With the increasing volume of global trade, modernizing ports is crucial to maintain efficiency and security. - Regulatory Shifts: The event will explore how emerging regulations and policies impact international trade, providing insights valuable for both public and private sectors. - Cross-Sector Collaboration: By bringing together government officials, industry leaders, and technology experts, the forum fosters a collaborative approach to solving complex challenges. Panama’s Role in Global Trade Panama plays a pivotal role in global trade due to its strategic location and the Panama Canal. The country's advancements in maritime and logistics infrastructure, coupled with its commitment to security, make it a vital participant in discussions about the future of global commerce. The forum will delve into how Panama can leverage its position to enhance the security and efficiency of maritime operations and logistics, contributing to a more resilient global trade network. Challenges and Opportunities The forum will address several pressing issues in the global trade ecosystem: - Cybersecurity: As trade increasingly moves online, safeguarding data and systems is crucial. - Automation and AI: Integrating advanced technologies can boost efficiency and security but also presents challenges. - Sustainability: Ensuring that logistics and maritime operations are environmentally friendly. - Political and Economic Stability: Discussing how regional and global stability impacts trade routes and operations. Company Profile and Insights BigBear.ai is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, and is publicly traded on the NYSE (symbol: BBAI). The company specializes in artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, offering solutions that help organizations navigate complex, distributed, and mission-critical environments. BigBear.ai’s participation in the forum underscores its ongoing commitment to advancing secure and efficient trade practices, particularly in the context of national security and supply chain management. Industry Evaluation Industry insiders view BigBear.ai’s involvement in the BASC Panama 2025 forum as a critical step towards addressing the multifaceted challenges of global trade. The company’s deep expertise in AI and decision intelligence, combined with its leadership in national security, positions it well to offer meaningful insights and actionable solutions. Experts anticipate that the forum will lead to significant collaborations and innovations, particularly benefiting regions like Panama, which are crucial to global maritime and logistics operations. The BASC program, now known as the Business Alliance for Secure Commerce, has evolved from a voluntary initiative aimed at preventing drug smuggling to a comprehensive, internationally recognized organization promoting secure commerce through global security standards. Founded in 1996, BASC has become a cornerstone in the effort to safeguard global trade corridors and is seen as a vital partner for companies and governments alike. In conclusion, the BASC Panama 2025 International Forum promises to be a landmark event, leveraging BigBear.ai’s advanced AI capabilities and industry expertise to foster a more secure and resilient global trade system.