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CLECAT joined the annual Summit of the International Transport Forum (ITF) in Leipzig (21-23 May) bringing together over Delegates from around the world. Ministers from the ITF’s 69 member countries, leaders from international organisations, industry, and academia met to explore how global transport and supply chains can be strengthened in an increasingly volatile world.

The 2025 edition of the Summit was shaped by a growing awareness that transport systems are now exposed to multiple and simultaneous threats. Geopolitical instability, climate risks, and technological disruptions have all highlighted the vulnerabilities of global logistics networks. Over three days of intense discussions, panels and workshops offered insights into how policy and investment can reduce exposure to such shocks and support long-term resilience.

A recurring theme throughout the Summit was the need for greater clarity on how transport systems operate within wider supply chains. As participants underlined, when disruptions occur – whether due to infrastructure damage, cyber incidents, or trade policy shifts – the consequences ripple quickly through economies. This makes it increasingly urgent for transport policies to be shaped not only by infrastructure and mobility goals, but also by a deep understanding of logistics and trade realities.

Particular attention was given to the economic costs of disruption. Recent OECD/ITF work presented at the Summit provided compelling evidence of the impact of past shocks, as well as the likely consequences of future climate-related events on fixed transport assets and infrastructure services. At the same time, the sessions explored how investment strategies must evolve – with growing focus on climate-resilient infrastructure, digital connectivity, and more adaptive governance frameworks.

Trust and cooperation emerged as vital enablers of resilience. Cross-border data sharing, for example, was widely recognised as essential for modern supply chains, but also fraught with legal and technical obstacles. The challenge lies in building shared frameworks that align both public and private interests, while also ensuring that digital solutions support interoperability and competitiveness.

Discussions throughout the week echoed many of the concerns raised by the freight forwarding and logistics sector. The shift from just-in-time to just-in-case logistics, for instance, is no longer theoretical but already underway in many parts of the industry. However, this shift requires matching policy support. Investment in both physical and digital infrastructure must be scaled up.

For official Policy Recommendations and ITF Press Release see the Summit website