KPMG has released a new edition of its Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport report. The Great Reset provides critical insights for policy makers, investors and infrastructure executives who are navigating the complexities of the current global landscape, which is posing new challenges for island infrastructure.
Jack MacKenzie, Head of Deal Advisory, KPMG in the Cayman Islands said: “Island jurisdictions have always faced a distinct set of infrastructure challenges. In 2025, these challenges are sharpening — but so too are the opportunities.
“Small island nations like the Cayman Islands are navigating a complex interplay of climate volatility, constrained government budgets and lack of resources, changing demographics, dependence on imported food and other essential goods, and global shifts in trade and economics. Resilience, adaptability and long-term thinking are no longer optional — they are essential.”
The report gathers insights from global infrastructure leaders, together with insights from KPMG’s international team of professionals working with clients in the infrastructure, transport and healthcare sectors.
The top 10 key trends are identified in the report:
1. Funding: The great privatisation.
As governments around the world are trying to balance a range of funding priorities, demand for new and more resilient infrastructure is climbing. Finding solutions to close the funding gap is a priority.
2. Supply chain: In search of standards
A lack of supply chain standards is driving up costs and undermining efficiency - both are detrimental to the environment.
3. Sustainability: Fixing the missing middle.
Sustainability has moved from a matter of principle into – simply – good business sense. Now the big challenge is closing the ‘missing middle’ between action and ambition.
4. Digitization: Seeing value from digital twins
People have been talking about digital twins for decades. Finally, the pieces are in place to turn models into value.
5. New asset classes: Smarter infrastructure requires smarter strategies.
As infrastructure assets get smarter and new asset classes are integrated into the system, a more dynamic approach to managing infrastructure is needed.
6. Construction: Innovation unlocked
Engineering and construction firms are under massive pressure to deliver more for less.
7. Resilience: Complacency will likely lead to catastrophe
Asset owners and operators need to reassess their assumptions about the health and longevity of their portfolios.
8. Capacity: Delivering the pipeline.
Delivering the future infrastructure pipeline will require a complete reset of global construction and delivery capabilities.
9. Energy transition: Prioritizing pragmatism.
The energy transition is entering a new phase driven by economic pragmatism.
10. Shipping: Has the party ended?
The past four years have been a bonanza for global shipping lines and their investors. Has the party ended?
MacKenzie concluded: “As island economies look to build infrastructure that supports vibrant, inclusive and sustainable futures, this thought leadership aims to serve as a compass — guiding stakeholders, investors, and policymakers through the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
A copy of Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport report - The Great Reset can be downloaded here: 2025 Emerging Trends in Infrastructure and Transport - KPMG Cayman Islands
Comments (0)
We appreciate your feedback. You can comment here with your pseudonym or real name. You can leave a comment with or without entering an email address. All comments will be reviewed before they are published.