SAAFF congress will focus on paradigm shift in industry

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New opportunities, new content, new activities, new networking opportunities are some of the additions that delegates to the congress can look forward to this year.

Explaining the reasoning behind the theme and the changes to the event, SAAFF CEO Dave Logan says: "The freight forwarding industry is facing major changes as it fights to stay viable in a changing global environment. For freight forwarders to survive - and thrive - a major paradigm shift is needed. This is what this year's congress will focus on".

Logan says that freight forwarding has become a progressively complex and specialised service in the current context of globalisation, tight security regulations and skills shortages. "We are operating in a turbulent environment," he says. "Freight forwarders face numerous challenges: volatile fuel prices, rising toll costs, restrictive carbon requirements and many others. Maintaining a competitive advantage under these conditions requires strategic planning and decisive action. Business is becoming more and more challenging as complexity increases."

Topics to be covered

Proactive topics that will be covered at this year's congress include latest international trends, customs practices, industry modernisation, BBBEE, legislation, supply chain and lots more. Currently the industry's outlook is fairly positive, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasting a compound annual growth rate of 4.1% over the next four years. Even better news is that Africa is the second fastest growing market, with a CAGR of 4.4%.

The SAAFF Congress is a powerful platform structured to equip delegates with more practical knowledge on the realities and challenges of the current trading environment and the tools required to leverage these opportunities. It is also a forum for all stakeholders - from sponsors and suppliers to members and customers - to engage directly with senior decision-makers of freight forwarding companies, government and policy makers.

Exciting new additions to this year's programme include the SAAFF Golf Challenge at the Durban Country Club; a site visit to the Durban port and a sponsors' meet-and-greet session. The congress will run alongside a two-day industry supplier exhibition, with exhibitors showcasing products and services for the freight forwarding industry.