2024 FIATA World Congress opens in Panama, tackling global logistics challenges

The 2024 FIATA World Congress, titled 'The Great Connection', officially opened yesterday in Panama City, marking the start of one of the most highly anticipated events in the global logistics and freight forwarding industry. Co-hosted by the Asociación Panameña de Agencias de Carga (APAC) and FIATA International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations the Congress brings together over 820 global leaders, stakeholders, and experts to discuss key trends shaping the logistics environment both globally and within the Americas.

The opening ceremony was graced by high-level addresses from the Panamanian Authorities, Minister José Ramón Icaza Clément, Minister For Canal Affairs, Minister In Charge; Carlos Hoyos Boyd, Ministry Of Commerce And Industries Of Panama; FIATA President, Turgut Erkeskin, and Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO), Ian Saunders. Two special welcome videos by the Secretary General of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Juan Carlos Salazar and the Secretary General of the International Transport Forum (ITF) at the OECD, Young Tae Kim, were also provided, showcasing FIATA’s longstanding institutional cooperations. These addresses set the stage for in-depth discussions on the evolving role of logistics in an increasingly interconnected world. The opening session also included a cultural performance showcasing Panamanian Folkloric dance.

FIATA President, Turgut Erkeskin, opened the Congress by emphasising the importance of collaboration in tackling challenges facing the logistics industry today. Erkeskin highlighted how digitalisation, sustainability, and regulatory shifts are rapidly changing the landscape of global supply chains, urging stakeholders to embrace innovation while ensuring resilience.

The regional focus of this year's Congress is on the Region Americas, where growing investment in infrastructure and an emphasis on sustainability have positioned the region as a key player in global logistics. Panama, with its strategic location and world-renowned Panama Canal, stands as a symbol of this potential, offering unmatched connectivity between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

The representatives of the Panamanian Authorities, Boyd and Clément, highlighted Panama's importance in the logistics industry. Clément noted that the Panama Canal is a vital artery of logistics connecting over 200 ports, in 170 territories. "Panama is not only a sea transport but also one for air transport, with the state-of-the-art Tocumen Airport. With over 90 international destination, <Panama> is an essential link to the global network of good and people" said Boyd.

The WCO Secretary General, Ian Saunders, stressed the importance of customs cooperation in facilitating cross-border trade and enhancing global supply chain efficiency. Saunders pointed to recent initiatives aimed at modernising customs operations to meet the demands of the digital economy.

The Congress comes at a critical time as global trade faces ongoing disruptions from economic uncertainties, technological transformation, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. In this context, the Region Americas is set to play an increasingly important role as a strategic logistics hub, connecting the world's largest economies and contributing to the global supply chain.

Collaboration was the main theme stressed throughout the opening session, by all the speakers, highlighting the need for stronger partnerships between public and private sectors to foster innovation and sustainability in logistics.

The WCO Secretary General said: "the relationship between freight forwarders and customs is not merely about moving goods from point A to point B, it is about collaboration and trust". He also highlighted "FIATA's active and constructive participation in the WCO Private Sector Consultative Group (PSCG) [...]. FIATA's contributions are instrumental in [the WCO's] efforts to streamline customs procedures, improve compliance and enhance the overall efficiency of international trade". Saunders shared that there are over 90 Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programmes around the world, which are at the forefront of providing a secure and compliant trade environment. FIATA's participation and insights at the 6th WCO Global AEO Conference, which took place earlier this year, were highlighted as visionary and practical.

The ICAO Secretary General highlighted the joint training programme with FIATA, ensuring accessible and competency based learning on essential safety and security requirements in airfreight through the ICAO-FIATA Dangerous Goods by Air (IFDG) Training Programme.

The ITF Secretary General, Young Tae Kim, also addressed the Congress, highlighting the need for stronger partnerships between public and private sectors to foster innovation and sustainability in logistics. He pointed to ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions in freight transport, a key priority for both governments and industry stakeholders.

The FIATA Director General shared that meetings such as the FIATA World Congress encourage dialogue between the different stakeholders across the supply chain and are a necessity to move the industry forward. This year’s Congress brings together 820 participants – the most since 2020 – marking a landmark development for global exchange and cooperation.

Looking Ahead

Throughout the week, the FIATA World Congress will host a series of panel discussions, workshops, and networking events, offering participants a platform to exchange knowledge and explore solutions to the most pressing challenges facing the logistics industry.

“The 2024 FIATA World Congress is a unique opportunity for us to engage in meaningful dialogue and shape the future of logistics,” added President Erkeskin. “We are confident that this event will foster new ideas, partnerships, and strategies to propel the industry forward.”

As the world continues to navigate complex trade environments, the 2024 FIATA World Congress will serve as a key platform for advancing the global logistics agenda and positioning the Region Americas as a vital player in the global supply chain.