The International Air Transport Association (Iata) has committed to accelerating the modernisation and transformation of the air cargo industry - building on the momentum created by the entry into force of the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).
“Air cargo processes are stuck in another century,” said Alexandre de Juniac, Iata’s director general and CEO. “To ensure that air cargo is ready to benefit from the expected $1-trillion boost in trade growth arising from the TFA and the improving global economic environment, we need a major overhaul of industry processes. And there is no time to lose; our customers already expect the efficiency of electronic documentation."
Iata has called on the industry to conclude the digitisation of the supply chain to allow all information to be shared instantly, improving efficiency and simplifying the transport process
It wants to see airlines adopting modern and harmonised standards that facilitate safe, secure and efficient operations, particularly in relation to carriage of dangerous goods
Recognising that partnerships are critical in driving industry transformation, especially for a business where global standards are so vital, Iata has called on governments to support the industry’s modernisation process by rapidly implementing the TFA so that its substantial benefits such as harmonised rules for expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods crossing borders and the acceptance of e-payments and electronic documentation can be realised.
