Making Maritime Regulations Work for Freight Forwarders
FIATA now holds full consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), ensuring freight forwarders have a stronger say in the rules shaping global shipping.
FIATA’s work at the IMO directly impacts the way freight forwarders operate, from reducing administrative burdens to influencing safety and environmental regulations. Find out why full consultative status matters, and what it means for freight forwarders' day-to-day operations.
Why Does Full Consultative Status at the IMO Matter to Freight Forwarders?
At its 134th session in July 2025, the IMO Council agreed to upgrade FIATA’s status from provisional to full consultative, pending final approval at the IMO Assembly in November. This distinction recognises FIATA’s sustained contribution to maritime policymaking and reinforces the influence of the freight forwarding sector in shaping international regulations.
As the only representative of the freight forwarding and logistics industry at the IMO, this upgrade means that FIATA can directly shape regulations that reflect the realities of multimodal logistics and promote solutions that are workable, sustainable, and safe.
Why Is FIATA's Full Consultative Status at the IMO so Important?
With full consultative status, FIATA can engage directly in discussions that determine the future of maritime transport. In 2025, FIATA’s contributions have included:
- Maritime Digitalisation (March): Supporting the adoption of Maritime Single Windows to streamline ship–port data exchange and reduce paperwork.
- Environmental Protection (April): Providing input on greenhouse gas reduction measures to ensure a fair and practical transition for all supply chain actors.
- Maritime Safety (June): Highlighting operational realities in the revision of the Cargo Transport Units (CTU) Code to improve safety guidance.
FIATA's strategic engagement at the IMO ensures that freight forwarders’ operational realities are reflected in global regulations, promoting solutions that are workable, efficient, and sustainable.
What Does This Mean for Freight Forwarders Today?
Freight forwarders will benefit from FIATA’s full consultative status at the International Maritime Organization, which strengthens its capacity to shape practical maritime regulations. This advancement brings tangible gains, including streamlined documentation processes, achievable environmental standards, and safety rules grounded in real cargo handling realities.
Be part of FIATA's work for the future of the industry by:
- Sharing operational insights and practical challenges with FIATA so that FIATA can represent your industry voice at the global stage
- Participating in FIATA events and meetings, including the Multimodal Transport Institute (MTI) and Working Group Sea, to help shape policy and ensure that regulations remain relevant and workable
- Engaging with local authorities to support FIATA's work and emphasise the important voice of freight forwarders in the supply chain
FIATA continues to support freight forwarders navigating the complexities of maritime transport. From influencing international regulations to providing practical resources, such as the new Best Practice Guide on Maritime Contracting, FIATA equips Members with the knowledge and tools needed to manage contracts, mitigate risks, and operate confidently in today’s global shipping environment.