The British International Freight Association (BIFA) predicts that 2025 will bring opportunities for the international freight forwarding and logistics sectors, driven by rising global trade, e-commerce, and technological innovation. Other areas of focus include automation, digitalization, and sustainability.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects a 3.2% rise in global trade volumes as geopolitical tensions ease, buoyed by e-commerce growth. BIFA said global online sales are expected to surpass $7.4 trillion by 2025, pushing freight companies to improve their delivery networks and speed, particularly in underserved areas.

Technology will play a key role in improving efficiency. Tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and Internet of Things (IoT) will transform shipment tracking, customs clearance, and warehouse management. Automation is expected to lower costs and enhance transparency. BIFA’s director general, Steve Parker, said digitalization will be essential, with real-time analytics and autonomous systems revolutionizing global supply chains.

Sustainability is also a top priority. Companies are adopting greener logistics solutions in response to consumer and regulatory pressures. “Shippers are now looking beyond cost and speed — they want greener logistics solutions. This shift is creating both challenges and opportunities for logistics providers,” Parker said.

BIFA noted other challenges facing the industry, including changing transportation demands, geopolitical uncertainty, volatile fuel costs, regulatory complexities, and labor shortages.

Source: Air Cargo News