The Smart Manufacturing track explores the transformation of production systems from linear, reactive operations into intelligent, adaptive ecosystems capable of sensing, predicting, and continuously improving performance. It examines how artificial intelligence, the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), automation, digital fabrication, and advanced analytics are reshaping manufacturing—from the factory floor and supply chains to product design and workforce development. In emerging economies, Industry 4.0 presents both an opportunity for technological leapfrogging and a challenge of accessibility, capability, and localization, where the value of intelligent systems depends not only on sensors and algorithms but also on who can deploy, adapt, and benefit from them. We invite contributions that move beyond technology adoption narratives to uncover the socio-technical mechanisms through which smart manufacturing can enhance productivity, quality, sustainability, and competitiveness while enabling inclusive industrial transformation for enterprises of different scales.

1. Industrial IoT and Predictive Manufacturing: How does industrial sensing and predictive analytics transform manufacturing reliability, efficiency, and operational decision-making?

2. Intelligent Quality Control and Inspection: How can AI-driven inspection and anomaly detection improve product quality, reduce waste, and strengthen manufacturing competitiveness?

3. Digital Fabrication and Intelligent Product Design: How does additive manufacturing and generative AI reshape product innovation, customisation, and local production capabilities?

4. Smart Supply Chains and Manufacturing Visibility: How can digital supply chain platforms improve visibility, resilience, and coordination across manufacturing ecosystems?

5. Workforce Transformation and Industry 4.0 Skills: How does manufacturing digitalization reshape workforce capabilities, employment patterns, and the future of industrial skills development?

6. Localized and Inclusive Manufacturing Innovation: How can context-aware AI solutions enable SMEs and local manufacturing hubs to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies?

7. Sustainable and Circular Manufacturing Systems: How does intelligent manufacturing contribute to resource efficiency, waste reduction, and environmentally sustainable production?

8. Manufacturing Governance and Technology Ecosystem Development: How can industrial policies, innovation ecosystems, and institutional capabilities support equitable and sustainable smart manufacturing transformation?

Important Dates:

• Abstract Submission: 15th August 2026

• Paper Submission: 15th September 2026 (Midnight EAT)

• Peer Review Feedback: 30th September 2026

• Revised Paper Submission: 30th October 2026

• Early Bird Registration: 30th October 2026

• Late Registration: 15th November 2026