Canalys Forum APAC 2025 Highlights AI Shift, Marketplace Growth and DRAM Supply Risks

The Canalys Forum APAC 2025 concluded on December 4 after a three-day gathering of IT channel leaders, vendors and distributors in Da Nang, Vietnam. Hosted by Canalys, now part of Omdia, the event focused on emerging technology trends shaping the Asia-Pacific channel landscape, with analysts delivering research-backed insights and partners engaging in high-level strategy discussions.

DRAM shortage forecast through 2026

A major warning issued at the forum concerned a prolonged global DRAM shortage expected to continue into 2026. Analysts noted that hyperscalers are absorbing a large share of available supply due to increasing AI workloads, resulting in tighter availability for the traditional channel. Partners were encouraged to secure inventories early and diversify sourcing plans to avoid disruptions.

AI and cloud marketplaces redefine the channel

Artificial intelligence remained the dominant theme throughout the conference. Speakers highlighted how agentic AI is influencing cost structures, operational models and customer engagement. Omdia’s Chief Analyst, Mark Iles, underscored the rapid rise of cloud marketplaces, projecting their value to reach US$163 billion by 2030. He urged partners to adapt to marketplace-driven procurement models and develop cloud-native capabilities to stay competitive.

Managed services positioned for strong APAC growth

The event featured numerous presentations and panel discussions. A dedicated session on managed services pointed to strong profitability opportunities as businesses increase their reliance on outsourced IT operations. The Asia-Pacific market is projected to lead global managed-services revenue growth in 2025, with analysts estimating an expansion of around 15% for the region.

Sustainability recognition and partner engagement

The event also included the annual Canalys awards, where ICT Zone Asia Berhad was named “Sustainability Partner of the Year 2025.” In parallel, the forum served as a major networking platform, facilitating more than 2,500 formal one-on-one meetings in addition to numerous informal interactions designed to drive joint go-to-market planning and strengthen vendor–partner alignment.

The 2025 edition of Canalys Forum APAC reinforced the accelerating influence of AI, the strategic importance of cloud marketplaces and the need for partners to prepare for ongoing supply-chain constraints as they navigate the next phase of technology-driven transformation.