FIATA makes data protection a standard

FIATA and the Global Shippers Forum (GSF) have launched a signable version of the FIATA–GSF Data Governance Charter, marking an important milestone in the industry’s collective commitment to responsible data governance in digital supply chains.

First published in 2023, the Charter established a set of clear and widely endorsed principles for the protection and responsible use of trade data. The launch of the signable version now takes this commitment a step further, translating shared principles into a practical framework for accountability across the FIATA ecosystem.

The signable version represents a significant step forward, allowing partner organisations to formally express their support for the Charter’s principles, while enabling FIATA to progressively require the software providers it works with as part of their engagement. In doing so, FIATA is embedding responsible data governance as a standard condition of cooperation with the organisations and technology partners that support its activities.

“Data is one of the most valuable assets in modern trade, and it must be protected accordingly. With this signable Charter, FIATA is sending a clear signal: responsible data governance is not optional — it is a fundamental expectation for anyone working with us. We are committed to ensuring that the freight forwarding community retains ownership and control of its data.” Dr Stéphane Graber, Director General, FIATA.

"As the logistics sector moves to digital transactions, the Data Governance Charter provides shippers with a checklist of protections for how their data should be stored and handled by digital transport management systems. Shippers can use the charter to ensure that these protections are provided in End User Agreements they are asked to sign by platform providers and avoid those that cannot provide these essential assurances". James Hookham, Director, Global Shippers Forum.

The Charter sets out five core principles: data ownership; permission requirements for data storage and analysis; duty of care in data protection; obligations to report data breaches; and fair market responsibilities for large platform operators. Together, these principles are designed to protect Digital Platform Users—including shippers, freight forwarders, and other platform users—from the unauthorised or unfair commercial use of their data by third‑party platform operators.

By signing the Charter, organisations make a formal commitment to transparency, trust, and responsible data governance in international trade. FIATA’s phased implementation approach provides partners with the necessary time to align, while clearly establishing data protection and fair data practices as a non‑negotiable baseline for collaboration across the industry.