The international freight forwarding and logistics industry will meet in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from October 5 to 7, 2027, for the next edition of the FIATA World Congress. The announcement follows the 2026 gathering in Milan, Italy, which brought together representatives from across the sector to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping global logistics.
The Milan congress welcomed industry leaders, freight forwarding professionals, policymakers and international organisations for discussions on the future of the profession and the wider logistics landscape. The event also marked the conclusion of FIATA’s centenary celebrations, setting the stage for the Federation’s next chapter as it enters its second century.
The 2027 edition will once again provide an international forum for professionals to exchange expertise, develop partnerships and identify practical responses to a rapidly evolving global trade environment. By selecting Addis Ababa, FIATA will also bring greater attention to Africa’s position in international supply chains, the importance of regional connectivity and the development of logistics networks that facilitate cross-border trade.
Freight forwarders continue to face a complex operating environment shaped by geopolitical uncertainty, shifting trade routes, digital transformation and increasing pressure to build more resilient supply chains. Against this backdrop, the congress is expected to serve as a platform for dialogue and cooperation between stakeholders across different regions and markets.
Dawit Woubishet (PD), Local Organising Chair and Chair of the FIATA Airfreight Institute, said hosting the event in Addis Ababa would provide an opportunity to bring the international freight forwarding and logistics community to Ethiopia while showcasing Africa’s expanding role in global commerce.
He explained that the congress would offer industry leaders a setting in which to exchange ideas, establish partnerships and explore opportunities to improve connectivity between regions. He also expressed his anticipation of welcoming delegates from around the world and presenting the potential of Ethiopia and the broader African logistics sector.
For FIATA, the 2027 congress will also be an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s first 100 years while addressing the priorities that will define the profession in the decades ahead.
Dr Stéphane Graber, FIATA Director General, said the Federation’s focus was now shifting towards how it and the global freight forwarding community could continue to adapt to a rapidly changing world.
According to Graber, the Addis Ababa gathering will allow participants to build on the lessons of the past century while examining the partnerships, priorities and innovations needed to shape the future of freight forwarding. By bringing together industry professionals across geographical regions and generations, FIATA intends to reinforce its position as the global voice of freight logistics and contribute to a more connected and resilient industry.
