Rise of e-commerce and rising demand for speed accelerated need for decentralised warehousing, AI-powered inventory management and advanced last-mile delivery. In coming decades, logistics will become more predictive and technology-enabled, says Stéphane Graber, Director-General, FIATA.
Ritika Arora Bhola
What are the global trends shaping the logistics industry, and how is FIATA adapting to them?
The logistics industry is undergoing rapid transformation driven by digitalisation, sustainability imperatives, and growing geopolitical uncertainty. The shift toward integrated multimodal solutions coupled with increasing regulatory complexity and data-driven supply chains is reshaping the role of forwarders. FIATA is responding by modernising industry standards such as through the development of electronic FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading and by strengthening dialogue with international organisations to ensure policy developments reflect operational realities. We are also investing in capacity-building to help our members remain agile in a fast-changing environment.
How do you see logistics evolving in the next five to 10 years?
Logistics is set to evolve from a traditional support function into a driver of competitiveness, with a shift towards sustainability and digitalisation, reinforced by resilience through corridor development and innovation. The rise of e-commerce and demand for speed are accelerating the need for decentralised warehousing, AI-powered inventory management, and advanced last-mile solutions. Freight forwarders will be central to managing this complex multimodal network. Over the coming decade, logistics will become predictive, technology-enabled, and environmentally conscious, yet will continue to rely on human expertise. FIATA is committed to equipping its members to face the challenges ahead and lead this transformation.
How is FIATA supporting its members in transitioning toward sustainable and green logistics practices?
FIATA promotes sustainability through advocacy and practical tools. We are engaged in multilateral discussions to ensure forwarders are recognised in climate dialogues; we are advancing work on CO2 emissions tracking, green corridor development, digitalisation of logistics processes, and optimisation of multimodal transport. In parallel, we provide our members with training and guidance on implementing greener best practices, from carbon footprint measurement to modal shift strategies. Our goal is to empower our members to contribute to global climate goals without compromising their operational viability.
How has FIATA responded to recent global disruptions?
These disruptions have reaffirmed the importance of resilient logistics networks. The international association has acted as a central platform for information exchange, rapidly mobilising expertise to help members navigate the challenges that have risen from global disruptions. We have worked closely with United Nations’ agencies and other partners to facilitate freight movement during crises and advocate for logistics as an essential service. We are also integrating lessons learned into our long-term policy and training programmes.
What are your top priorities as the FIATA’s DG?
I want to strengthen FIATA’s influence as the iglobal voice of forwarding by uniting logistics stakeholders, expanding the adoption of digital tools that support efficient and secure transport operations, and ensuring our members are well-prepared to face regulatory, technological, and environmental shifts. This includes driving forward the implementation of the digital Negotiable FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading, supporting negotiations for multimodal transport, enhancing member engagement through accessible services and clearer communication.
