A partnership to drive progress in logistics and supply chain has been formalised by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport SA (Ciltsa) and the Institute for Customs and Freight Forwarding (ICFF).
The MoU marks a significant step towards professionalising South Africa's cargo industry, a statement says.
“This collaboration aims to elevate industry standards, enhance skills development, and create clear pathways for professional growth in customs, freight forwarding, and supply chain management.”
The two institutes emphasise that the partnership will leverage Ciltsa’s extensive expertise in transport, logistics, and supply chain management with ICFF’s specialised knowledge in customs and freight forwarding.
“This synergy is designed to tackle complex industry challenges and foster innovation through a unified approach to professionalisation.”
ICFF chief executive Ingrid du Buisson says: “This collaboration represents a shared commitment to advancing our industry.
“Instead of working in silos, we are building bridges to collectively take responsibility for ensuring our sector becomes globally competitive and raises its credibility. As an industry that facilitates 95% of South Africa’s international trade, our mission is to professionalise this sector, and we look forward to collaborating with the industry to grow SA Inc."
According to Ciltsa president Elvin Harris, the MoU will directly benefit professionals and the broader industry.
“By leveraging our respective strengths, we will be able to solve complex challenges and drive innovation," Harris says.
“This partnership will have a direct and positive impact on students, employees, and professionals across the logistics value chain, ensuring we are better equipped to meet the demands of a dynamic global economy."
Moreover, members of both organisations will gain significant benefits from this collaboration, Ciltsa and the ICFF agree.
“The partnership will provide a platform for networking and knowledge exchange between members of both organisations, fostering career growth,” the MoU statement says.
“Members will also receive discounted rates for joint workshops, webinars, and events. Additionally, the organisations will explore joint credentialing opportunities to enhance the professional recognition of individuals within the industry.
“The MoU signifies a new era of cooperation, moving beyond traditional boundaries to create a more integrated and credible logistics ecosystem in South Africa, conclude du Buisson and Harris.
