THE International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that the 2025 World Cargo Symposium (WCS) April 15 - 16 will focus on digitisation, sustainability and safety/security.

Said IATA Director General Willie Walsh: "Air cargo demonstrated its resilience in adapting to the post-pandemic world. In 2024, more cargo was transported by air than ever before. But the world is moving at an even faster pace with technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, evolving risks and changing customer needs.

"At WCS in Dubai, we'll collectively take stock of what's next for air cargo, focusing on digitalization, sustainability, safety/security, and e-commerce. The growing demand for air cargo underscores its critical role," said Mr Walsh.

WCS is taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates hosted by Emirates SkyCargo and dnata. It is the second time the WCS is hosted in the United Arab Emirates, with the first in 2017.

"With its strategic location and world-class logistics infrastructure, Dubai is a natural choice for the 2025 IATA World Cargo Symposium.

As this year's host airline, Emirates SkyCargo is set to showcase its expanding capabilities and commitment to driving efficiency, innovation, and connectivity across the air cargo industry. The symposium will be a key platform to shape the future of air cargo and align on the best strategies for growth," said Emirates SkyCargo vice president Badr Abbas.

Said dnata CEO Clive Sauve-Hopkins: "We're proud to welcome industry leaders to Dubai, home to our first and largest operations, at a time of incredible growth and transformation in the cargo sector.