Last April, I had the distinct pleasure of participating in the 2024 FIATA HQ Meeting in Geneva, Switzerland. This annual gathering of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) has become a cornerstone event for FIATA members, fostering collaboration and innovation through its workshop-centric format.
As the product owner at Customaite, one of the most valuable aspects of attending events like the FIATA HQ Meeting is the opportunity to engage directly with FIATA members—professionals who are at the very heart of the freight forwarding business. These are the people who experience the industry's challenges and opportunities firsthand, and their insights are invaluable for driving meaningful change and innovation. Engaging in discussions with these industry experts not only enhances our understanding of their needs but also helps us tailor our solutions to better serve the market.
The participative format of the FIATA HQ Meeting, with its emphasis on workshops, has proven to be a successful and engaging initiative. Workshops provide a dynamic environment for hands-on learning, problem-solving, and the exchange of ideas. They encourage active participation and ensure that everyone has a voice in the conversation, leading to more robust and actionable outcomes.
Technology, and AI in particular, is high on the agenda for customs professionals. At the Information Technology Workshop I facilitated, we explored the question: “How will AI impact customs declarations and the value added by customs brokers' services?” The potential benefits of AI are immense, from automating tedious tasks to providing predictive insights for more efficient planning and better customer service. However, there is also a degree of scepticism and fear that AI might eventually take over jobs and even make the customs broker obsolete. This dual perspective highlights the need for balanced and thoughtful implementation strategies that enhance, rather than replace, human expertise.
I also participated in the Customs Affairs workshop, where we delved into the broader topic: “The impact of new technologies on customs operations.” It's clear that the logistics sector has significant progress to make in terms of technology adoption and digitisation. The discussions underscored the urgency for the industry to embrace technological advancements to stay competitive and efficient.
Events like the FIATA HQ Meeting are crucial for bridging the technology gap in the logistics sector. They provide a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration that can accelerate technology adoption and digitisation. I am happy to contribute to this progress. By facilitating discussions and sharing insights on AI and technology, we can help shape a future where technology empowers customs professionals and enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the entire supply chain.