FIATA now has full consultative status with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), giving freight forwarders a greater say in the rules that shape global shipping. This important event recognises FIATA’s ongoing contribution to maritime policy-making and strengthens the role of the freight forwarding sector in shaping international rules. It also culmination of efforts made in recent years to increase FIATA’s relevance and visibility in international policy institutions, as well as the strategic direction taken by the Presidency to strengthen and professionalise FIATA’s headquarters.
FIATA’s work at IMO directly impacts the way freight forwarders work, from reducing administrative burdens to influencing safety and environmental regulations. Find out why full consultative status is important and what it means for freight forwarders’ daily work.
Why is full consultative status with IMO important for freight forwarders?
At its 134th session in July 2025, the IMO Council agreed to upgrade FIATA’s status from provisional to full consultative status, pending final approval by the IMO Assembly in November. This recognition recognises FIATA’s ongoing contribution to maritime policy development and strengthens the freight forwarding sector’s influence in shaping international rules.
As the sole representative of the freight forwarding and logistics industry at IMO, this upgrade means that FIATA can directly shape rules that reflect the realities of multimodal logistics and promote solutions that are workable, sustainable and safe.
Why is FIATA’s full consultative status at IMO so important?
With full consultative status, FIATA can directly participate in discussions that shape the future of maritime transport. In 2025, FIATA’s contributions included:
• Maritime Digitalization (March): Supporting the implementation of single windows in the maritime sector to optimize data exchange between ships and ports and reduce documentation.
• Environmental Protection (April): Providing information on greenhouse gas reduction measures to ensure a fair and practical transition for all participants in the supply chain.
• Maritime Safety (June): Reflecting operational realities in the revision of the Cargo Transport Unit (CTU) Code to improve safety recommendations.
FIATA’s strategic participation in the IMO ensures that freight forwarders’ operational realities are reflected in global rules, contributing to the adoption, efficiency and sustainability of solutions.
What does this mean for freight forwarders today?
Freight forwarders will benefit from FIATA’s full consultative status with the International Maritime Organization, strengthening its ability to shape practical maritime rules. This progress brings tangible benefits, including simplified documentation processes, achievable environmental standards and safety regulations based on real-world cargo handling realities.
Be part of FIATA’s work for the future of the industry by joining us to:
• Share operational information and practical challenges with FIATA so that FIATA can represent the voice of your industry on the global stage
• Participate in FIATA events and meetings, including the Multimodal Transport Institute (MTI) and the Maritime Working Group, to shape policy and ensure that regulations are relevant and workable.
• Work with local authorities to support FIATA’s work and highlight the importance of freight forwarders’ voices in the supply chain
FIATA continues to support freight forwarders in addressing the complexities of maritime transport. From influencing international regulation to providing practical resources such as the new Guide to Best Practices in Maritime Contracts, FIATA provides Members with the knowledge and tools they need to manage contracts, mitigate risk and operate confidently in today’s global shipping environment.