Page 576 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - APRIL 2025 (Part 1)

He also spoke about the importance of digital transformation and its role in reshaping the cargo
sector through the expansion of artificial intelligence tools, predictive data analytics, and integrated
logistics platforms, which have become essential to achieving efficiency and regulatory
compliance across various areas.

Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo, emphasised in his opening remarks at the 18th
edition of the World Cargo Symposium in Dubai the pivotal role air cargo plays in maintaining global
supply chain stability. He stressed the importance of continuing to focus on meeting core customer
requirements – safety and security, digital transformation, and sustainability.

He said the significance of air cargo is clearly evident today, whether in supporting global trade,
enabling e-commerce, or delivering vital humanitarian aid. In this context, the air cargo sector must
continue to enhance safety and security standards, accelerate digital transformation, and fulfil its
sustainability commitments in order to meet customer expectations and keep pace with the ever-
changing landscape.

IATA called on governments to intensify efforts to combat rogue shippers and support the work of
the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in strengthening Annex 18 of the Chicago
Convention, which represents the global framework for the safe air transport of dangerous goods.

IATA also renewed its call on governments to adopt a unified, risk-based approach to air cargo
security, in light of recent incidents involving the discovery of incendiary devices hidden within
shipments. Although some countries have taken new measures, the lack of coordination among
them has led to inconsistent outcomes, underscoring the importance of harmonised responses
based on international standards.

Sullivan said, “Recent security incidents highlight the need for better coordination among
governments. Aviation safety cannot be built on fragmented or reactionary measures. Global
standards and cooperation between nations are essential to enhance safety.”
IATA reiterated its call on countries to fulfil their obligations under Annex 17 by sharing accurate and
timely intelligence on threats, to enable effective risk assessments and operational decision-
making.

According to IATA, progress is being made on carbon emissions reduction, which remains the
greatest environmental challenge facing the sector. Sustainable aviation fuel is witnessing
increasing demand, with new agreements being signed across the value chain, yet the volumes of
sustainable fuel used remain far below the required levels, and production costs remain high.

IATA called on governments worldwide to adopt policy frameworks to enhance sustainable fuel
production and reduce its costs.

Amid growing trade disruptions, IATA highlighted the role trade plays in fostering prosperity and
emphasised the negative impact of measures that hinder the smooth flow of goods, which harm
businesses, consumers, and the economy.

https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bj6vr8s-iata-world-cargo-symposium-2025-kicks-off-dubai