FIATA
International Federation of
Freight Forwarders Associations
The global voice of freight logistics

Training Validation, Legal Advancements, and Regional Engagements

FIATA e-flash
18 July 2025

Training and Professional Development: FIATA Concluded the 57th Validation Session

FIATA is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of its 57th Validation Session to validate FIATA Association Member training programmes, marking the first session of 2025.

During this session, the following 5 FIATA Association Members successfully completed the revalidation process for their training programmes, continuing their commitment to delivering high-quality education in freight forwarding and supply chain management:

  • Two FIATA Association Members successfully revalidated their courses to deliver the FIATA Diploma in Freight Forwarding (FDFF):
    - China International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFA)
    - Irish International Freight Association (IIFA)
  • Three FIATA Association Members revalidated their courses to deliver the FIATA Higher Diploma in Supply Chain Management (FHDSCM):
    - Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders (GIFF)
    - Taipei Airfreight Forwarders & Logistics Association of Taiwan (TAFLA)
    - Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA)

The revalidation certificates will be officially presented during the 2025 FIATA World Congress, which will take place in Hanoi, Vietnam from 6 to 10 October 2025.

FIATA congratulates all revalidated Association Members on this achievement and wishes them continued success in shaping skilled professionals in logistics and supply chain management.

Association Members interested in validating or revalidating their courses to deliver the FDFF or FHDSCM are encouraged to contact the FIATA Training Team at training@fiata.org.

International Trade and Law: UNCITRAL Adopts Draft Convention on Cargo Documents

On 11 July 2025, UNCITRAL finalised the draft Convention on Negotiable Cargo Documents (NCD) at its 58th session, marking a major milestone for global trade and transport. The Convention offers an opt-in harmonised legal framework for negotiable cargo documents of title, in both paper and electronic form, across all modes of transport. It is now set for adoption by the UN General Assembly later this year.

The Convention addresses a longstanding legal gap for multimodal transport, supporting the issuance of negotiable documents such as the FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading (FBL/eFBL) and helping micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to access trade finance and global supply chains. It also incorporates legal recognition of electronic records, encouraging digital innovation in logistics. More information on the Convention's benefits can be found in FIATA's dedicated communication.

FIATA actively contributed to the Convention’s development as a longstanding observer to UNCITRAL Working Group VI, ensuring the new instrument reflects practical realities for freight forwarders acting as contractual carriers.

FIATA will continue supporting its members by providing resources to understand and apply the Convention. Members are encouraged to engage with national authorities to support its adoption. 

For more information, please visit the UNCITRAL press release and the short explainer video on negotiable cargo documents.

Maritime: FIATA Launches Best Practice Guide on Contracting and Risk Management

In today’s evolving logistics world, freight forwarders often take on dual roles, as intermediaries and contractual carriers, bringing both new opportunities and legal complexity.

To support forwarders in managing these responsibilities, FIATA has released its new Best Practice Guide on Maritime Contracting – Risk Management and the Role of the Contractual Carrier.

What is inside the guide?

  • Clear breakdown of key terms and clauses in ocean contracts
  • Legal insights across multiple jurisdictions
  • Practical risk management tips

This guide helps freight forwarders navigate Master Bills of Lading, Sea Waybills, and other contractual risks with clarity and confidence.

The Guide is free for FIATA Members in the Member Area. It can also be purchased by non-members for CHF 15 here.

For questions, please contact: legal@fiata.org.

Are you a FIATA Member? Access the Guide for Free here!

Not a FIATA Member? Access the Guide for CHF 15 here!

FIATA Events: São Paulo to Host the 2025 FIATA-Region Americas Field Meeting

FIATA invites all Members and logistics professionals to the 2025 FIATA Region Americas (RAMs) Field Meeting in São Paulo! This key regional gathering will bring together leaders from across the Americas to discuss current challenges, share strategic insights, and strengthen regional collaboration in freight forwarding and logistics.

Why attend?

  • Connect with decision-makers and innovators in logistics.
  • Explore key trends in digital innovation, sustainability, logistics corridor development, risk management, AEO programmes, and more.
  • Enjoy targeted networking and knowledge-sharing in a dynamic setting.

Discover the future of logistics in the FIATA Region Americas, from intermodality and safety to trade facilitation and customs integration.

The full programme and speaker line-up will be announced soon.

🔗 Register now and be part of shaping logistics in the region!

REGISTER NOW!

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