The Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA EMEA) and UK forwarding body BIFA have formed a partnership to combat rising cargo crime, reported London's Air Cargo News.

The two associations exchanged associate partner memberships and will share intelligence, training, and security solutions to strengthen supply chains against theft. The move coincides with a proposed Freight Crime Bill last week.

A parliamentary report earlier estimated freight-related crime cost the UK economy GBP700 million (US$923.3 million) in 2023. Harry Hughes, TAPA EMEA's UK Regional Lead, said the country ranks among the top five in the region for cargo thefts, with collaboration across logistics and law enforcement seen as vital to reducing losses.

Mr Hughes added that TAPA EMEA aims to use its security standards and intelligence tools to help companies make supply chains more resilient. BIFA director general Steve Parker said cooperation with TAPA EMEA builds on its work with the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service, ensuring members remain alert to risks.

TAPA data showed that in the two years to October 2025, more than 137,000 cargo crime incidents were recorded across 110 countries in EMEA, including 5,865 in the UK. Losses were reported in nine per cent of UK cases, amounting to goods worth over EUR72 million.