2025 FIATA World Congress Special!

FIATA e-flash

5 November 2025

2025 FIATA World Congress

From 6 to 10 October 2025 in Hanoi, Vietnam, the freight‑forwarding and logistics community gathered for the 2025 FIATA World Congress under the theme Green & Resilient Logistics. The event was attended by over 1,200 registered participants from more than 80 territories, reflecting the truly global nature of FIATA. It showcased how industry, government and young talent are coming together to shape a future of more sustainable, agile and connected supply chains.

The Congress benefitted from the participation and support of the Vietnamese authorities, with a special highlight being the presence of Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chinh, who reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable logistics and its ambition to become a regional hub.

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FIATA Meets with the People's Committee of Hanoi

/On Monday 6 October, Members of the FIATA Presidency and FIATA Extended Board, led by then FIATA President, Mr Turgut Erkeskin, met with the People's Committee of Hanoi. Vice-Chair Mr Nguyen Manh Quyen highlighted logistics as a key service sector and strategic driver of economic growth, noting Hanoi’s development as a major logistics and trade hub.

Mr Erkeskin emphasised the importance of digital innovation as the key to the evolution of the logistics industry, noting FIATA’s commitment to supporting Vietnam’s deeper participation in global logistics networks through its digital initiatives. He expressed confidence that the exchange would encourage closer cooperation and help advance sustainable logistics development in Hanoi and nationwide.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation, advancing digitalisation, and shaping a sustainable, competitive logistics system, with support from FIATA, the Vietnam Logistics Business Association, and central authorities.

For more information on this meeting, click here.

FIATA’s Internal Meetings Set the Stage for Strategic Progress

On 7 October 2025, within the framework of the 2025 FIATA World Congress in Hanoi, FIATA’s Institutes, Advisory Bodies and Regions convened a full day of internal meetings. The sessions reflected FIATA’s dynamic governance model, its commitment to continuous improvement, and its drive to strengthen collaboration across all regions and areas of expertise.

Airfreight Institute (AFI)

The AFI session provided an overview of recent activities and ongoing initiatives to strengthen the airfreight sector. Discussions focused on securing the e-commerce supply chain, with particular emphasis on enhancing safety through improved data management and Unit Load Device (ULD) practices. Participants underscored the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the integrity, efficiency, and sustainability of global air cargo operations.

FIATA Logistics Institute (FLI)

FLI members met to review training and education priorities, reaffirming the Federation’s dedication to developing a skilled and diverse logistics workforce. The session focused on updating curricula, strengthening cooperation between training providers, and advancing initiatives that promote youth participation and professional excellence worldwide.

Customs Affairs Institute (CAI)

The CAI meeting centred on customs management, trade facilitation, and operational efficiency. Participants explored digital customs processes, regulatory updates, and collaborative strategies to streamline border procedures—recognising that transparent, harmonised systems are key to smoother global trade flows.

Multimodal Transport Institute (MTI)

MTI delegates announced key updates on the global logistics industry and identified emerging risks linked to evolving trade corridors and environmental pressures. The meeting called for concerted action among forwarders, carriers, and regulators to safeguard multimodal transport operations and ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable connectivity.

Advisory Body on Legal Matters (ABLM)

The ABLM meeting focused on four key areas: the application of the Negotiable Cargo Documents (NCD) Convention within the freight forwarding industry; the relevance of updating the FIATA Model Correspondent Agreement and FIATA Model Rules; the importance of advocating for the legal recognition of freight forwarders in local legislations; and the possible development of a template shipper letter of instructions to include data quality expectations towards shipper in the context of Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) regimes.

Advisory Body on Safety and Security (ABSS)

The ABSS session addressed the growing threat of identity fraud and so-called “phantom forwarders”, which increasingly jeopardise the integrity of the global supply chain. Members reviewed preventive measures, exchanged intelligence, and proposed stronger industry coordination to mitigate risks and safeguard trust across logistics operations.

FIATA Region Africa & the Middle East (RAME)

RAME delegates met to exchange knowledge, discuss market trends, and identify joint approaches to regional challenges. The session emphasised the value of collaboration to enhance efficiency and build stronger business connections across borders, while supporting the growth of resilient and sustainable supply chains in the region.

FIATA Region Americas (RAMS)

The Region Americas meeting offered delegates a platform to network, share experiences, and align on strategic priorities. Discussions highlighted regional cooperation, data-driven decision-making, and market-trend analysis as essential tools to foster sustainable growth and strengthen logistics networks across the Americas.

FIATA Region Asia–Pacific (RAP)

The Asia–Pacific regional meeting underlined the region’s pivotal role in global supply chains. Delegates discussed new cooperation initiatives and development directions, highlighting shared priorities around digitalisation, capacity building, and innovation. RAP delegates expressed collective ambition to strengthen logistics capabilities and deepen engagement within the FIATA community.

FIATA Region Europe (REU)

Region Europe delegates gathered to exchange insights, share experiences, and strengthen collaboration among logistics associations. The meeting reinforced FIATA’s global network and regional connectivity, while reflecting on Europe’s leadership in advancing innovation and sustainable logistics practices.

Opening of the 2025 FIATA World Congress: Green and Resilient Logistics

The Opening brought together global leaders, government officials, and logistics professionals to set the tone for a week of dialogue and collaboration.

Opening remarks were delivered by then FIATA President Mr Turgut Erkeskin, President of Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) Mr Dao Trong Khoa, Vice-Chair of Hai Phong City People’s Committee Mr Hoàng Minh Cường, and Executive Chair of the YCH Group, Dr Robert Yap. Their messages collectively underscored the importance of innovation, sustainability, and digitalisation in shaping the future of logistics.

The afternoon featured a Special Session with H.E. Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính. During this session, then FIATA President Mr Turgut Erkeskin expressed his gratitude to the Government of Vietnam for its warm welcome and highlighted FIATA’s centenary journey towards sustainable and digitally integrated logistics systems. He commended Vietnam’s growing role in regional trade connectivity and reaffirmed FIATA’s support for building resilient global supply chains through innovation, collaboration, and professional excellence.

VLA President highlighted Vietnam's rising hub in the global supply chain, with a trade volume projected to surpass USD 800 billion this year. The territory boasts over 45,000 logistics enterprises, playing a vital role in its economic development. He also emphasised FIATA's role as the global voice of freight forwarding and logistics, connecting tens of thousands of enterprises worldwide and stated the commitment to "walk hand in hand with FIATA on the path toward green and sustainable growth".

Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính during his address commended FIATA and VLA for advancing Vietnam’s logistics capabilities and emphasised the government’s commitment to positioning the country as a global logistics hub. He noted that the 2025 FIATA World Congress was a significant event, an opportunity for logistics associations, enterprises, experts and policymakers worldwide to come together, exchange ideas and propose new solutions for the sector, in this uncertain environment.

He called upon FIATA and the business community for "Five Joint Efforts":

Jointly foster innovation and creativity for sustainable growth.
Jointly promote green logistics, emissions reduction, and climate action.
Jointly share knowledge and experience, and enhance logistics human resources.
Jointly expand logistics networks and connectivity across Southeast Asia and beyond.
Jointly develop strategic infrastructure, especially ports, logistics centres, and transport corridors, for deeper regional and global integration.

The opening day set an inspiring tone for the week ahead, with over 1,200 participants from more than 80 territories engaging in meaningful exchanges to strengthen partnerships, promote green logistics solutions, and advance the transformation of global freight forwarding.

Panel 1 - YLP Talk Show: Future of Logistics

The first panel featured the regional finalists of the Young Logistics Professionals (YLP) Award, an initiative sponsored by TT Club, who presented their dissertations which included research and real-world case studies on the future of logistics.

The four regional winners of the 2025 YLP Award and their dissertations are as follows

Region Africa & the Middle East: Abdelaziz Ilzeen, AFFM, Morocco
Blockchain for Secure Global Trade: Overcoming Environmental and Regulatory Obstacles in Laboratory Reagents imports and Moroccan Handicraft Exports
Region Americas: Elsa Alicia Montserrat Llarena Jimenez, AMACARGA, Mexico
Not the Shortest Route—The Smartest: Strategic Thinking in Modern Logistics
Region Asia-Pacific: Lingjiao Li, CIFA, China
Multimodal Transport Challenges and Considerations for Oversized Cargo
Region Europe: Menno van Noort, FENEX, Netherlands
How well-planned and poorly-prepared transport can make a world difference in supply chain logistics

Each finalist showcased forward-thinking approaches to pressing challenges in logistics, from leveraging blockchain to navigate regulatory and environmental hurdles, to strategic route planning, managing oversized cargo, and strengthening supply chain resilience. Delegates were inspired by their practical and innovative solutions, highlighting the impact young professionals can have in driving a global logistics sector that is smarter, more adaptable, and environmentally conscious.

The 2026 Young Logistics Professionals (YLP) Award has now launched! FIATA Members are encouraged to identify and nominate their most promising young talents to take part in this global recognition of excellence. To learn more about eligibility and the nomination process, click here.

Panel 2 - Cross-Border e-Commerce Logistics: Trends and Optimisation Solutions

From left to right: Steve Wang, Shenzhen One Touch, Alibaba; Dereje Derero, Director of Ethiopican Airlines MD Cargo; Lai Viet Anh, Deputy Director General, Vietnam E-commerce and Digital Economy Agency; Ms Quyen Nguyen, Director, CEL and Co-Founder, Supply Chain Vietnam; Nachi Mendelow, Senior Business Developement Executive, WiseTech Global; Craig Strickland, Chief Sales Officer, BoxC and Tracy Hackshaw, Senior Digital Economy Strategist, Universal Postal Union (UPU).

Cross-border e-commerce continues to grow at remarkable speed, transforming global trade and reshaping consumer expectations. With this rapid expansion comes both opportunities and challenges: while digital platforms and logistics innovation are driving accessibility, complex customs processes, infrastructure gaps, and high return rates continue to hinder efficiency.

Mr Nachi Mendelow, Senior Business Developement Executive, WiseTech Global; Mr Craig Strickland, Chief Sales Officer, BoxC; Mr Steve Wang, Shenzhen One Touch, Alibaba; Mr Tracy Hackshaw, Senior Digital Economy Strategist, Universal Postal Union (UPU); Ms Lai Viet Anh, Deputy Director General, Vietnam E-commerce and Digital Economy Agency and the moderator Ms Quyen Nguyen, Director, CEL and Co-Founder, Supply Chain Vietnam, explored how technology, regulation, and logistics solutions can work in tandem to build a more inclusive and sustainable e-commerce ecosystem. Participants examined how digital tools and streamlined procedures can accelerate customs clearance, expand access for small businesses, and enhance last-mile delivery performance. The potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), postal networks, and integrated logistics hubs to improve visibility and connectivity was also highlighted as a critical pathway for sustainable growth.

Speakers emphasised that bridging speed and inclusion requires both infrastructure investment and policy coordination. Empowering small and medium-sized enterprises to participate in cross-border trade was identified as a priority, supported by fair digital governance and accessible logistics solutions.

The session concluded with a call to action: future progress depends on shared responsibility among governments, technology providers, and logistics actors to ensure that global e-commerce growth remains efficient, inclusive, and beneficial to all participants.

Panel 3 - Innovation and Digital Transformation: Catalyst for Green and Sustainable Logistics

From left to right: Mr Yap Kwong Weng, CEO, Vietnam SuperPort, YCH Singapore; Mr Mike Bhaskaran, Chief Operations Officer, DP World; Mr Guillaume Crozier, Chief Cargo Officer, dnata; Mr Nerijus Poskus, Vice President, Global Ocean Procurement, Flexport; Mr Feng-Ming (Chuck) Tsai, Chair, Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation; and Mr Glenn Palanacki, Vice President of Product Strategy, Descartes.

Global trade patterns are shifting as nearshoring and friendshoring gain momentum, reshaping production strategies and prompting countries to strengthen domestic manufacturing. These evolving dynamics underscore the need for innovation, resilience, and sustainability in logistics.

Mr Feng-Ming (Chuck) Tsai, Chair, Yang Ming Marine Transport Corporation; Mr Glenn Palanacki, Vice-President of Product Strategy, Descartes; Mr Guillaume Crozier, Chief Cargo Officer, dnata; Mr Mike Bhaskaran, COO, DP World; Mr Nerijus Poskus, Vice-President, Global Ocean Procurement, Flexport; and the moderator by Mr Yap Kwong Weng, CEO, Vietnam SuperPort, YCH Singapore, explored how automation, AI, and data-driven solutions are transforming logistics operations, from ports to airfreight, by improving efficiency, reducing emissions, and increasing reliability. Panellists noted that the goal is for automation in port operations to shorten dwell times and reduced idle emissions, with AI supporting slot and capacity optimisation to minimise environmental impact.

In airfreight, the conversation turned to the crucial role of data quality and governance. Participants agreed that while the sector is not yet fully data-driven, progress depends on standardised data protocols, clearly defined KPIs, and investment in skilled personnel and robust data architecture. Stronger governance frameworks were identified as essential to ensure that data-led decision-making enhances responsiveness in a volatile environment.

The panel also addressed how technology can act as a strategic tool to strengthen supply chain resilience in times of disruption. By combining digital container standards, automation, and smart platforms, logistics stakeholders can reduce risk exposure, accelerate processes, and support sustainability objectives.

Ultimately, innovation was recognised as a key enabler of a more adaptive and environmentally responsible logistics ecosystem—one where efficiency, sustainability, and resilience advance hand in hand.

Special Session: Leader's Insights with ITF Secretary General

FIATA Director General, Dr Stéphane Graber and Secretary General of the International Transport Forum (ITF) at the OECD, Dr Young Tae Kim.

This Special Session with Dr Young Tae Kim, Secretary-General of the International Transport Forum (ITF) at the OECD with Dr Stéphane Graber, FIATA Director General, explored how connectivity, decarbonisation, and resilience can shape the future of global freight transport, with insights from ITF’s extensive analytical work and forward-looking scenarios for Southeast Asia. The ITF, which publishes over 30 reports annually and continues to expand its membership globally, focuses on driving policy discussions on decarbonisation, digitalisation, and post-pandemic resilience.

The presentation highlighted the sustained growth in freight demand projected through 2060, which will put increasing pressure on infrastructure and energy systems, while emissions from the freight sector are expected to remain at current levels without urgent policy action. The discussion emphasised that addressing these challenges requires integrated approaches that enhance regional connectivity, accelerate the transition to low-carbon logistics, and reinforce resilience against global shocks.

Insights from Southeast Asia illustrated how high transport costs and fragmented infrastructure can hinder competitiveness, underscoring the importance of both “hard” and “soft” connectivity measures. Integrated decarbonisation strategies—combining cleaner technologies, multimodal networks, and regional coordination—were shown to be essential to decouple freight growth from emissions.

In the fireside chat, Dr Graber and Dr Kim discussed the need for governance reform and coordination to facilitate cross-border efficiency, with digitalisation and data sharing seen as powerful tools for enhancing trade and transport integration. Resilience was framed as a long-term investment rather than a cost, reinforcing the idea that sustainable, inclusive, and well-connected transport systems are central to global economic stability and competitiveness.

Panel 4 - Agility and Resilience in Supply Chains - Ensuring Continuity Across Sectors

From left to right: Mr Tudor Maxwell, Head of WiseTech Academy; Mr David Yokeum, Chair, WCAworld; Mr Nguyen Quang Vinh, Vice Executive Chair, Vietnam Chamber of Commerce (VCCI) and Industry Management and Operations; Mr Mike Reid, Supply Chain Director, Central Retail Group; Mr Peter Lim, Vice President, Singapore Logistics Association (SLA); and Mr Ahmet Kürşat Baltacı, Cargo Director North East Asia, Turkish Cargo.

In an era defined by volatility, agility and resilience have become the cornerstone of modern supply chains. Disruptions triggered by geopolitics, climate risks, cyber threats, and health crises are compelling logistics stakeholders to rethink traditional models and prioritise adaptability across industries.

Mr Nguyen Quang Vinh, Vice Executive Chair, Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI); Mr David Yokeum, Chair, WCAworld; Mr Ahmet Kürşat Baltacı, Cargo Director North East Asia, Turkish Cargo; Mr Peter Lim, Vice-President, Singapore Logistics Association (SLA); and Mr Mike Reid, Supply Chain Director, Central Retail Group, under the moderation of Mr Tudor Maxwell, Head of WiseTech Academy, shared strategies that demonstrate how collaboration, diversification, and technology can fortify operational continuity.

Speakers discussed how greater visibility and data integration enable real-time responses to disruptions, while diversification of sourcing and logistics hubs reduces exposure to regional risks. The panel highlighted that resilience is not about redundancy but about agility built on smart, digital, and sustainable frameworks.

The discussion concluded that building resilient supply chains requires a coordinated approach that aligns business strategy with sustainability and policy. Strengthening agility across sectors will ensure global trade continues to flow, even amid uncertainty and transformation.

Panel 5 - Navigating the New Trade Landscape - The Evolving Challenges of Logistics Amidst Global Trade Realignment

From left to right: Dr John Kent, Leader, Global Supply Chain Diplomacy Initiative; H.E. Mousa Al Bargi, Deputy Minister for Logistics Services at the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Mr Brandon Fried, Executive Director, The Air Forwarders Association; Mr Tran Thanh Hai, Deputy Director General, Agency of Foreign Trade, MOIT; and Mr Martin Lee, Regional Sales Manager, WiseTech Global.

Global trade is undergoing a profound transformation, shaped by shifting alliances, tariff changes, and emerging regional frameworks. The realignment of supply chains in response to evolving economic policies is redefining trade routes and compelling logistics stakeholders to strengthen adaptability, diversify networks, and rethink operational strategies.

H.E. Mousa Al Bargi, Deputy Minister for Logistics Services at the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Mr Tran Thanh Hai, Deputy Director General, Agency of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT); Mr Martin Lee, Regional Sales Manager, WiseTech Global; and Mr Brandon Fried, Executive Director, The Airforwarders Association; under the moderation of Dr John Kent, Leader, Global Supply Chain Diplomacy Initiative, examined how current trade dynamics are influencing logistics and market access.

Discussions centred on the ripple effects of tariffs, shipping costs, and supply chain dependencies, alongside strategic approaches such as “China +1” and “USA +1”, which are reshaping production and sourcing decisions. Participants noted that transparency, digital tools, and coordinated policies are crucial to ensure stability in this evolving landscape.

The session concluded with a shared understanding that resilience in global trade requires foresight and collaboration. Strengthening multilateral engagement and leveraging digital innovation will be key to navigating disruption and sustaining growth in the next era of international logistics.

Panel 6 - Next-Generation Economic and Transport Corridors: Regional Connectivity for Global Integration

From left to right: Prof Dr Ho Thi Thu Hoa, Director of Vietnam Logistics Research and Developemnt Institute (VLI); Mr Turgut Erkeskin, FIATA President; Ms Zhanar Bagasharova, Head of Business Development & Business Excellence, DTC Global (Digital Trade Corridor); Mr Fedor Kormilitsyn, Economic Affairs Officer, Transport Division, UNESCAP; Mr Nguyen Ba Hung, Principal Country Economist, Asian Developer Bank; and Mr Francesco Parisi, CEO of Francesco Parisi Group and FIATA Past President.

Efficient transport corridors are the backbone of global trade, driving economic growth and linking production hubs with consumer markets. As supply chains evolve, next-generation corridors must integrate digitalisation, sustainability, and multimodal connectivity to enhance efficiency and resilience.

Mr Turgut Erkeskin, FIATA President; Ms Zhanar Bagasharova, Head of Business Development & Business Excellence, DTC Global (Digital Trade Corridor); Mr Fedor Kormilitsyn, Economic Affairs Officer, Transport Division, UNESCAP; Mr Nguyen Ba Hung, Principal Country Economist, Asian Development Bank; and Mr Francesco Parisi, CEO, Francesco Parisi Group and FIATA Past President, moderated by Prof Dr Ho Thi Thu Hoa, Director, Vietnam Logistics Research and Development Institute (VLI), examined how collaborative frameworks and innovation can strengthen global integration.

Discussions highlighted the need for harmonised digital systems, sustainable infrastructure, and policy coherence to ensure corridors deliver long-term economic and environmental value. Speakers emphasised the pivotal role of Southeast Asia, and Vietnam in particular, as a gateway for trade between Asia, Europe, and North America.

The panel underlined that regional connectivity depends on coordinated investment, data-driven planning, and inclusive partnerships. Building resilient and future-ready corridors will be essential to unlocking equitable global trade opportunities.

Panel 7 - Enhancing Inland Waterway and Rail Transport Sustainable Supply Chains

From left to right: Dr Ivan Petrov, FIATA Immediate Past President and Managing Director of TransExpress; Prof Dr Bui Thien Thu, Professor of Okayama University (Japan) and Former Administrator of Vietnam Inland Waterways Administration; Professor Christa Sys, Department of Transport and Regional Economics and the Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Antwerp; Mr Lambert van Dieren, CEO, Westerman Multimodal Logistics; Mr Chen Wei, Deputy Manager of the Overseas Market, Sinotrans Limited; and Mr Tran Tien Dung, Chair of the Board of Directors, Macstar Vietnam and Vice-President of VLA.

Sustainable transport modes such as inland waterways and rail are gaining strategic importance as industries seek to reduce carbon emissions and improve operational reliability. By strengthening these networks, the logistics sector can balance efficiency with environmental responsibility and expand multimodal solutions that complement global supply chains.

Prof Dr Bui Thien Thu, Professor, Okayama University and Former Administrator, Vietnam Inland Waterways Administration; Dr Ivan Petrov, FIATA Immediate Past President and Managing Director, TransExpress; Mr Chen Wei, Deputy Manager, Overseas Market, Sinotrans Limited; and Mr Lambert van Dieren, CEO, Westerman Multimodal Logistics, under the moderation of Prof Christa Sys, Department of Transport and Regional Economics, University of Antwerp, shared perspectives from research and practice on how innovation and infrastructure development can advance green logistics.

Speakers addressed challenges related to capacity, interoperability, and regulatory alignment, while showcasing how digital tools and public–private collaboration can improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The importance of policy incentives and coordinated investment in low-carbon infrastructure was also underscored.

The discussion reaffirmed that promoting inland waterway and rail transport is vital to achieving sustainable logistics. Strengthening these modes within multimodal networks offers a clear pathway towards greener, more resilient, and future-focused supply chains.

Final Reflections and the Road Ahead

VLA President, Mr Dao Trong Khoa and then FIATA President, Mr Turgut Erkeskin.

The 2025 FIATA World Congress concluded with a ceremony that reflected the unity, collaboration, and forward-looking spirit of the global freight forwarding community.

Then FIATA President, Mr Turgut Erkeskin, delivered the closing address, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Vietnam, VLA, and all participants for their contributions to a week of meaningful dialogue and shared ambition. He commended the commitment of industry leaders and policymakers who came together in Hanoi to explore solutions for strengthening supply chains, advancing multimodal transport, and promoting sustainable logistics.

Mr Erkeskin extended special thanks to His Excellency Mr Pham Minh Chính, Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, for honouring the Congress with his presence, and acknowledged the dedication of VLA and the Professional Congress Organisers, APEX Media, for their outstanding efforts in hosting this successful event. This sentiment was echoed by VLA President Mr Dao Trong Khoa, who took the stage to thank FIATA, the VLA team, APEX Media, and all participants for their trust, collaboration, and active engagement throughout the Congress.

The ceremony continued with the recognition of FIATA’s regional engagement activities. FIATA Director General, Dr Stéphane Graber, presented certificates and trophies to the organisers of the FIATA Regional Field Meetings:

Mr Miguel Espinosa, representing Federación Colombiana de Agentes Logísticos en Comercio Internacional (FITAC, Colombia), for the 2024 Region Americas Field Meeting in Barranquilla.
Mr Edward John Urio, representing Tanzania Freight Forwarders Association (TAFFA, Tanzania), for the 2025 Region Africa and Middle East Field Meeting in Zanzibar.
Mr Chandra Kant Govil, representing The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI, India), for the 2025 Region Asia-Pacific Field Meeting.
Mr Jens Roemer, on behalf of Mr Petr Rozek and the Association of Forwarding and Logistics of the Czech Republic (SSL, Czench Republic), for the 2025 Region Europe Field Meeting.

Dr Graber also presented a certificate and trophy to Mr Dao Trong Khoa and the VLA team, in recognition of their exceptional organisation and hospitality throughout the Congress.

The ceremony further celebrated education and capacity building within the FIATA community through the Graduation Ceremony for the 57th and 58th Validation and Revalidation of FIATA Training Programmes (FIATA Diploma in Freight Forwarding (FDFF); FIATA Higher Diploma in Supply Chain Management (FHDSCM). Certificates were awarded to the following FIATA Association Members:

China International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFA) (FDFF)
Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA) (FDFF)
Egyptian International Freight Forwarding Association (EIFFA) (FHDSCM)
Freight Forwarders Association of Russian Federation (FAR) (FHDSCM)
Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF) (FHDSCM)
Irish International Freight Association (IIFA) (FDFF)
International Transport Companies Association of Iran (ITCA) (FDFF)
Southern Africa Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) (FDFF & FHDSCM)
Taipei Airfreight Forwarders & Logistics Association of Taiwan (TAFLA) (FHDSCM)
Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) (FDFF & FHDSCM)

A symbolic “Talking Stick Ceremony” marked the official handover of the Congress from the current host to the next. The baton was passed from VLA to Federazione Nazionale delle Imprese di Spedizioni Internazionali (FEDESPEDI). Mr Mauro Da Ros, on behalf of FEDESPEDI, expressed FEDESPEDI’s honour in carrying forward the spirit of connection and collaboration. H.E. Mr Marco Della Seta, Ambassador of Italy to Vietnam, and Mr Alessandro Pitto, President of FEDESPEDI, shared their enthusiasm for welcoming the global freight forwarding community to Milan in 2026 for FIATA’s centenary celebration.

The evening closed on an inspiring note of gratitude and anticipation — a fitting conclusion to a Congress that celebrated the strength of global collaboration and looked ahead to FIATA’s historic 100th anniversary.

Register now for the 2026 FIATA World Congress!

Culture, Connection and Celebration: The Congress Social Events

The 2025 FIATA World Congress in Hanoi offered not only a platform for knowledge exchange and dialogue but also memorable moments of connection through its social events.

The week began with a lively Welcome Cocktail, where delegates gathered to reconnect and network in an atmosphere of anticipation and camaraderie. The evening offered the perfect opportunity for participants arriving from across the globe to unwind, exchange first impressions, and set the tone for the discussions ahead.

The Culture Night was a true celebration of Vietnamese heritage, featuring captivating performances, traditional music, and local cuisine that gave participants a taste of the territory's vibrant spirit. The Culture Night also celebrated all cultures as participants joined the event in their national attire.

The Congress concluded with an elegant Gala Dinner, a highlight of the week that brought together the global FIATA community in a festive atmosphere. Delegates celebrated shared achievements, strengthened friendships, and reflected on the fruitful discussions that took place throughout the event. The YLP Global winner was also announced during the Gala Dinner: Ms Lingjiao Li, nominated by China International Freight Forwarders (CIFA), for her dissertation "Multimodal Transport Challenges and Considerations for Oversized Cargo".

Read the press release here.

Together, these evenings captured the spirit of collaboration and unity that defines FIATA — a community that grows stronger through shared experiences and collective celebration.

FIATA Electoral General Meeting

FIATA Immediate Past President, Turgut Erkeskin and newly elected FIATA President, Dr Thomas Sim.

The FIATA Electoral General Meeting took place on Friday, 10 October 2025. FIATA Members elected a new leadership composed as follows:

FIATA Presidency

President: Thomas Sim, Singapore Logistics Association (SLA), Singapore

Immediate Past President: Turgut Erkeskin, Association of International Forwarding and Logistics Service Providers (UTIKAD), Türkiye

Senior Vice Presidents:

Jens Roemer, FORWARD Belgium W.E.B., Belgium
Nadia Abdul Aziz, National Association of Freight and Logistics (NAFL), United Arab Emirates
Yukki Hanafi Nugrahawan, Indonesian Logistics and Forwarders Association (ILFA), Indonesia

Treasurer: Neil Taylor, Asociacion Logistica de Chile (ALOG), Chile

Secretary General: Keshav Tanna, Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI), India

From left to right: FIATA Director General, Dr Stéphane Graber; FIATA Senior Vice-President, Yukki Nugrahawan Hanafi; FIATA Senior Vice-President, Jens Roemer; FIATA Secretary General, Keshav Tanna; FIATA President, Dr Thomas Sim; FIATA Immediate Past President, Turgut Erkeskin; FIATA Senior Vice-President, Nadia Abdul Aziz; and FIATA Treasurer, Neil Taylor.

FIATA Extended Board

The Extended Board is composed of Vice Presidents and Chairs of Institutes, Advisory Bodies and Regional Bodies:

Vice-Presidents

Stephen Adjokatcher, Ghana Institute Of Freight Forwarders (GIFF), Ghana
Tej Contractor, Federation of Freight Forwarders' Associations in India (FFFAI), India
Mauro Da Ros, Federazione Nazionale delle Imprese
di Spedizioni Internazionali (FEDESPEDI), Italy
Dao Trong Khoa, Vietnam Logistics Business Association
(VLA), Vietnam
Guillermo Gonzalez Larsen, Federación Colombiana de Agentes Logísticos en Comercio Internacional (Fitac), Colombia
Kaoutar Guessous, Association des Freight Forwarders du Maroc (AFFM), Morocco
Ahmed Khaleel Mustafa, Egyptian International Freight Forwarding Association (EIFFA), Egypt
Sheila Mashiri, The Shipping & Forwarding Agents' Association of Zimbabwe (SFAAZ), Zimbabwe
Farid Saffarzadeh, International Transport Companies Association of Iran (ITCA), Iran
Angel Sanchez, Asociación Panameña de Agencias de Carga (APAC), Panama
Edward John Urio, Tanzania Freight Forwarders Association (TAFFA), Tanzania
Adelaide Yang, Taiwan Freight Logistics Association (TFLA), Chinese Taipei

FIATA’s Institutes, Advisory Bodies, and Regional Bodies, play a vital role in advancing the organisation’s technical expertise, regional coordination, and policy engagement. Through these entities, FIATA ensures that the voice of freight forwarders is represented globally, fostering knowledge exchange, capacity building, and harmonised standards across the international supply chain.

Institutes

Chair of the Air Freight Institute (AFI): Dawit Woubishet, Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA), Ethiopia
Chair of Customs Affairs Institute (CAI): Steve Parker, British International Freight Association (BIFA), United Kingdom
Chair of the FIATA Logistics Institute (FLI): Alperen Guler, Turkish Forwarding and Logistics Association (UTIKAD), Türkiye
Chair of the Multimodal Transport Institute (MTI): Mark Bromley, British International Freight Association (BIFA), United Kingdom

Advisory Bodies

Chair of the Advisory Body on Legal Matters (ABLM): Yuntao Yang, China International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFA), China
Chair of the Advisory Body on Safety and Security (ABSS): Niels Beuck, Bundesverband Spedition und Logistik (DSLV), Germany

Regions

Chair of the FIATA Region Africa and the Middle East (RAME): Ali Al Mesned, Qatar Association for Freight Forwarding and Logistics (QAFL), Qatar
Vice-Chair of the FIATA Region Africa and the Middle East (RAME): Ahmad Abdul Razeq, National Association of Freight and Logistics (NAFL), United Arab Emirates
Chair of the FIATA Region Americas (RAMs): Miguel Espinosa, Federación Colombiana de Agentes Logísticos en Comercio Internacional (Fitac), Colombia
Chair of the FIATA Region Asia-Pacific (RAP): Minh Nguyen Duy, Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA), Vietnam
Vice-Chair of the FIATA Region Asia-Pacific (RAP): Samir Shah, Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI), India
Chair of the FIATA Region Europe (REU): Antonella Straulino, Federazione Nazionale delle Imprese di Spedizioni Internazionali (FEDESPEDI), Italy
Vice-Chair of the FIATA Region Europe (REU): Tomas Arvidsson, Swedish International Freight Association (SIFA), Sweden