ข้อที่ 15. Linking the Olympic supply chain CHRIS CATTO-SMITH It is estimated that three million athletes, journalists and spectators have gathered in Beijing for the Olympic Games. Hundreds of millions more around the world are watching on television. It is estimated that logistics services for the Games will cost US$5.8 billion. Information gleaned from China Daily and People Daily sheds some light on the challenges of successfully staging an event of such magnitude. Huge logistics demand: With more than 200 countries and regions participating, it is estimated that 1.2 million pieces of sporting apparatus and equipment for athletes, officials and reporters will be handled by the various logistics agencies providing support to the event. Future vision: During the whole Olympic season in 2008, more than 75,000 tones of equipment and facilities will need to be transported, and more than 2,000 transport vehicles will be required. The huge Olympic logistics demand will become the new target for these giants from overseas. Closing capability gaps: The significant logistics demand also has attracted many leading domestic logistics companies, such as the Cosco logistics, China Shipping Logistics. Traditionally there has been a noticeable lack of co-operation between Chinese manufacturing and logistics companies, which has severely hindered the development of the national logistics services industry. Facing tense competition, China's local logistics providers are keenly absorbing the advanced technologies and vast international experience to narrow the gaps between domestic and overseas logistics capabilities. Impeccable planning: The Olympic Games last for only two and a half weeks, but involve an incredible level of logistics work. Green issues: The length of time and magnitude with which the committee organizing the Beijing Olympics (Bo cog) has analyzed unique logistics situations, developed supply chain strategies, and forecast effects is unprecedented. While initiallyfocused on dealing with expected environmental issues since 2001, the Beijing government had already been taking measures toward cleaning up the city (notorious for high air pollution) since 1998. Which is the logistics about?