Coupang Executive Outlines AI Logistics at APEC Summit

GYEONGJU, South Korea - A Coupang Inc executive described the company's logistics operations and business activities in a speech at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation CEO Summit on Wednesday.

Robert Porter, Chief Global Affairs Officer, said Coupang has invested in artificial intelligence and robotics technologies across APEC member economies.

He did not specify the investment amounts beyond describing them as "many billions of dollars."

The company uses machine learning for inventory forecasting, algorithms for delivery route planning, and warehouse automation equipment, Porter said.

He stated that orders placed by midnight are delivered by 7 a.m. the following morning.

Porter said Coupang operates as the largest job creator in South Korea and ranks as the country's second-largest private employer after Samsung Electronics. He did not provide employee numbers.

According to Porter, 75 percent of the company's small business partners, 85 percent of its logistics facilities, and 95 percent of its delivery personnel are based outside Seoul.

The company works with 300,000 small and medium enterprises, Porter said. He referenced Carlson Labs, an Illinois-based company, which increased its quarterly sales by 48 percent by selling through Coupang to Asian markets.

Porter said Coupang handles billions of dollars in annual American product exports to Asia.

He stated the company has made foreign direct investments in South Korea, Taiwan, and other APEC economies, but provided no dollar figures.

Porter called for flexible technology regulations and urged APEC governments to remove regulatory barriers. He said enforcement based on company size could reduce investment.

Coupang is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and operates e-commerce, delivery, streaming, financial technology, and cloud services in more than 190 countries, according to Porter.

The company ranked second on Fast Company's 2025 innovation list, he said.

The speech took place during the APEC CEO Summit in Gyeongju, held alongside the APEC Summit.