FIATA makes historic visit to Ethiopia

8th August 2023

The FIATA Director General joined the Train the Trainer (ToT) award ceremony, hosted by the Ethiopian Freight Forwarders and Shipping Agents Association (EFFSAA), during which students were honoured, highlighting the commitment to capacity building and excellence in the freight forwarding industry.

During the visit, FIATA had the opportunity to meet and engage with key government officials, including the Deputy Customs Commissioner, the National Transport Minister, and the State Transport Minister. As the voice of the freight forwarding and logistics industry, FIATA was able to fulfill its role as a global reference source for industry expertise and knowledge-sharing, providing valuable insights into key elements that are crucial to strengthen national and regional logistics supply chains. In particular, FIATA elaborated on its Digital Strategy, its work with intergovernmental organisations such as the United Nations and the World Customs Organisation (WCO), and the importance of digitalisation and interoperability in the supply chain for greater trade facilitation. The visit was also the occasion for a special workshop on FIATA’s work towards a Global Air Cargo Programme, hosted by the FIATA Air Freight Institute (AFI) Chair, which brought together FIATA representatives to the IATA-FIATA Consultative Council (IFCC). The discussions included consideration of key elements to include in a Global Programme for the benefit of all regions, and possible solutions for the way forward. The delegates also had the possibility to interact with Ethiopian Airlines representatives to discuss the future of air cargo and the current challenges faced. Further updates and opportunities for exchange will take place during the FIATA World Congress 2023. Finally, the FIATA Director General concluded his visit in Ethiopia with a trip to Ethiopian Airlines’ state of the art cargo facilities. This impressive site was a prime hub for cargo activities in the region and the main hub for COVID-vaccine distribution during the pandemic.