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. This milestone recognises FIATA’s sustained contribution to maritime policymaking and strengthens the voice of the freight forwarding sector in shaping international regulations. It also crowns the efforts deployed over recent years to enhance FIATA’s relevance and visibility within international policy institutions, as well as the strategic direction pursued by the Presidency through the reinforcement and professionalisation of the FIATA Headquarters.
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.
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.
With full consultative status, FIATA can engage directly in discussions that determine the future of maritime transport. In 2025, FIATA’s contributions have included:
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.
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:
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.
