IFCBAA has launched a nationwide series of Freight and Trade Logistics forums, with the inaugural session in Sydney held on Thursday 1 August at the Rowers Club in Wolli Creek. 

Scott Carson, CEO of IFCBAA, opened the Sydney half-day forum by explaining that the new Freight & Trade Logistics forums are designed specifically for IFCBAA’s Freight Forwarder members. In contrast, the annual CPD sessions on the current IFCBAA calendar focus on regulatory issues, updates, and challenges for customs brokers. The forums have already taken place in Adelaide and Melbourne, with Perth scheduled for 5 September. 

In his welcome address, Stéphane Parrenin, manager of international freight and logistics for IFCBAA, highlighted the important role of freight in the New South Wales economy. He emphasised that freight contributes $66 billion to the economy and provides employment for 200,000 people.

“Let’s take pride in working in an industry that enhances both the state’s economy and its well-being,” he said. 

He also noted that while there have been many challenges, the industry is showing resilience by adapting to the ever-changing logistics environment. 

The guest presentations began with an insightful analysis of sea freight by OOCL’s Eddy Declerq and Tim Mason. They covered various topics, including freight rates and charges, ship shortages and capacities, decarbonisation, and end-to-end logistics. Mr Mason also discussed developments in the intermodal sector and inland container depots, encouraging attendees to reconsider the “round trip” of freight and explore new approaches to executing the final mile. 

The discussion on sea freight was followed by two presentations on the important matter of biosecurity compliance. The first, delivered by IFCBAA’s Brad Leonard, covered regulatory risk, compliance, and supply chain security—including details of applicable penalties. He also provided an extensive explanation of recent reviews and requirements surrounding modern slavery. 

The second presentation, delivered by John Chambers, senior trade & customs consultant at BTi Logistics, informed delegates about their obligations regarding security and biosecurity in bonded warehouses and freight storage. 

Morning tea was followed by presentations from other sectors of the logistics industry, including the importance of freight insurance, delivered by Tim Cantlon from Quick Quote, and then Ian Sharples from Salt Marine, who covered risk factors highlighted by the recent MV Dali & Francis Scott Key Bridge allision. This was followed by an in-depth air freight analysis from Frederic Horst, founder and managing sirector of Trade & Transport Group. 

Delegates then heard from MPC International’s principal advisor, Dominic Enthoven, who provided analysis on container port data, air freight dynamics, and an introduction to the new Liner Shipping Game, which is being rolled out in Australia after successfully launching in Europe. 

Mick O’Dwyer from Direct Couriers rounded off the half-day session with Direct Couriers’ own insights into air freight, ESG, and additional service areas—and an impromptu discussion on drone cargo delivery following questions from the audience. 

In closing the forum, Scott Carson expressed gratitude to the main sponsor, 3DL Customs & Consulting, and silver sponsor Salt Marine, as well as all speakers and delegates who attended. 

The forums are held annually in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth. More details are available on IFCBAA’s website