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Last Friday, Fedespedi celebrated its 80th anniversary in Genoa, bringing together industry leaders, public authorities and international stakeholders to reflect on the evolution of global trade and the future of the freight forwarding sector. The event marked an important milestone for one of CLECAT's founding members and one of Europe's longest-established freight forwarding associations.

CLECAT President Dimitri Serafimoff and Director General Nicolette van der Jagt joined the celebrations, which included Fedespedi's General Assembly, a public conference and several networking events highlighting the history and achievements of the Italian freight forwarding community.

A key part of the programme was a discussion between Fedespedi President Alessandro Pitto and Filippo Fasulo, Co-Head of the Geoeconomics Observatory at ISPI, on the geopolitical developments reshaping international trade and supply chains. Reflecting on the increasing uncertainty facing businesses, President Pitto noted that while global trade appears increasingly exposed to "black swan" events, the freight forwarding sector has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to adapt and respond to disruption. Whether confronted with geopolitical tensions, economic crises, pandemics or supply chain disruptions, freight forwarders continue to play a critical role in ensuring the continuity of trade flows and the resilience of supply chains.

The discussion also highlighted the importance maintaining financially sustainable and resilient businesses capable of navigating an increasingly complex operating environment. Investment in digitalisation, innovation and stronger supply chain networks was identified as essential to maintaining competitiveness and preparedness for future disruptions. Speakers stressed the need to attract a new generation of talent to the logistics sector and better communicate the increasingly technology-driven and innovative nature of freight forwarding activities.

The celebrations also featured contributions from representatives of public authorities and institutions, including Italian Vice Minister Edoardo Rixi, who underlined the strategic importance of ports, infrastructure and logistics for Italy's competitiveness and economic development.

The anniversary programme concluded with the presentation of the book 80 anni di storie. Uniti da una passione ("80 Years of Stories. United by a Passion"), which chronicles the history of Fedespedi through the experiences and contributions of its successive presidents.

CLECAT congratulates Fedespedi and looks forward to continuing the close cooperation between the two organisations in support of a strong, resilient and future-oriented freight forwarding sector.