The FIATA HQ Meeting 2026, one of the most significant events in the international freight forwarding industry, was held in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together leading experts, organizations, and companies from across the supply chain. Held in an innovative workshop format, the event focused on finding practical solutions to the most pressing challenges in global trade and logistics.
Over the course of the three-day program, participants worked on key topics shaping the future of the sector:
Competitiveness, risk, and sector priorities
The opening day emphasized the development of multimodal transport corridors and their role in more efficient and sustainable trade. An in-depth look was taken at risk management in air freight forwarding, including legal aspects, contractual relationships, and security requirements. The day concluded with the work of specialized working groups (maritime, road, and rail transport), which outlined specific priorities for future action.
Governance, Digitalization, and Sustainability
The second day was dedicated to FIATA activities, providing a practical framework for active member engagement. Key topics included:
- Digital learning and educational standards
- Combating illicit trade through international cooperation
- The practical application of the FIATA electronic bill of lading (eFBL)
- Turning sustainable regulations into a competitive advantage, including topics such as CBAM and decarbonization
The day concluded with coordination among FIATA regions to translate the global strategy into concrete regional actions.
Digital Transformation and New Regulatory Frameworks
The final day focused on the future of the industry through:
- The new UNCITRAL Convention on Digital Transport Documents (NCD) and its significance for multimodal transport
- The practical aspects of e-commerce and de minimis regimes
- The use of data, artificial intelligence, and automation to improve efficiency
- Skills development and engagement of young talent through initiatives such as GS3
The 2026 FIATA HQ Meeting reaffirms its role as a key platform for cooperation between the industry, regulators, and international organizations. With a focus on practical solutions, digitalization, and sustainability, the event sets the direction for the development of global freight forwarding in an increasingly dynamic and complex world.
The Bulgarian National Freight Forwarding Association (NSBS) is among FIATA’s active members; at the event, it was represented by Dr. Ivan Petrov, Vice Chair of the NSBS Executive Board and Honorary Member of the FIATA Board, and by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Momchil Antov, Director of NSBS.
