Global freight forwarders unite in Vietnam to promote sustainable logistics

The International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) has brought together over 1,000 delegates from more than 100 territories at the 2025 FIATA World Congress in Hanoi to focus on “Green and Resilient Logistics”. The five-day event, hosted at the National Convention Center, marks a key milestone for the logistics sector amid global trade disruptions, climate pressures, and the growing need for sustainable supply chains.

For nearly a century, FIATA has acted as the global voice of the logistics community. This year’s Congress, organised in collaboration with the Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA), combines high-level discussions, exhibitions with more than 120 booths, and a B2B networking programme to foster cooperation across international logistics networks.

FIATA President Turgut Erkeskin emphasised that freight forwarders are central to ensuring goods move efficiently and responsibly, even amid geopolitical tensions and rising protectionist trends. “We are focused on resilience, sustainability, skills development, and stronger cooperation across borders and modes of transport,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for a green transition in logistics.

FIATA Director General Dr Stéphane Graber outlined initiatives supporting this transition, including FIATA’s role as a permanent observer at the International Maritime Organization and a partnership with the Smart Freight Centre to help companies measure and reduce their carbon footprint. These efforts aim to prepare the sector for regulatory and market demands related to sustainability.

Vietnam, hosting the Congress for the first time, is positioning itself as an emerging logistics hub in the Asia–Pacific. VLA President Dao Trong Khoa noted that the country’s logistics industry, valued at around USD 70–80 billion, includes over 45,000 enterprises and contributes significantly to national trade, projected to surpass USD 800 billion in 2025. He stressed that the event reinforces Vietnam’s growing role in global logistics and its commitment to greener, more digital supply chains.

Over the five days, the Congress will cover key themes such as cross-border e-commerce, digital transformation, resilient supply chains, regional connectivity, and sustainable transport solutions. The Young Logistics Professionals Award will also recognise innovative talent shaping the future of logistics.

For India, the Congress provides an opportunity to observe global trends in green and resilient logistics, explore potential partnerships, and engage with innovative solutions for sustainable supply chains. As the logistics sector worldwide adapts to environmental and economic pressures, the event highlights the importance of collaboration, technology adoption, and investment in green infrastructure.