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The CLECAT General Assembly took place on 20th November in Brussels, providing an opportunity for members to reflect on the association’s action plan and initiatives, and the evolving policy landscape affecting the logistics sector. Dimitri Serafimoff, representing FORWARD Belgium, was elected as the new President of CLECAT succeeding Willem van der Schalk (DSLV). The General Assembly also welcomed new Board Members, including Joël Glusman of TLF Overseas as Chair of the Air Freight Logistics Institute and Tomas Arvidsson of SIFA as Chair of the Rail Freight Logistics Institute.

During the meeting, members received updates on CLECAT’s ongoing activities and insights into the expected priorities of the incoming European Commission. Key policy ambitions presented included maintaining the EU’s climate targets, such as a 90% reduction in emissions by 2040 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. These targets are to be pursued through pragmatic implementation strategies that emphasise technology neutrality and innovation. The Commission also plans to balance decarbonisation with competitiveness and resilience, a theme central to its proposed Clean Industrial Deal, expected within the first 100 days of its mandate.

The Commission’s agenda also includes efforts to reduce bureaucracy, with plans to cut reporting obligations by 25% and simplify permitting rules to alleviate regulatory burdens on businesses. Additionally, a reinforced Investment Union is anticipated, aimed at providing financial stability through risk-absorbing measures, with an emphasis on prioritising effective policies over fragmented programs. The Commission’s focus on strengthening dialogue and collaboration with industry and with policymakers was highlighted as critical. CLECAT members emphasised the need for continuous engagement with EU policymakers to ensure the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability.