FIATA world congress to take place in Bali

Sari P. Setiogi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

For the first time since it held its inaugural world congress in 1926, the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) is to hold a world congress in Bali.

The congress, the 41st to be held by FIATA, is to run from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3 and will be hosted by the Indonesian Forwarders Association (INFA). It is expected to attract 1,200 participants representing both foreign and local companies and individuals.

"We expect about 400 Indonesian forwarders to participate in the event as it is being held right here in our own country," said organizing committee chairman Anthon Riyanto on Wednesday.

By comparison, only about 25 Indonesian companies participated in the previous congress held in Istanbul, Turkey, in 2001.

"Because many decision-makers will come to the event, it will provide a very good opportunity for Indonesian companies to look for foreign strategic partners with whom to establish joint ventures here. In the meantime, many bright, new business ideas may emerge during the congress," he added.

The event, titled The Role of Forwarders in the Logistics and Supply Chain, will cost about US$600,000 to stage.

FIATA has a membership of more than 40,000 forwarding, logistics and chain management firms from 93 national associations in 85 countries, operating in a total of more than 150 countries.