IATA's 2026 World Cargo Symposium in Lima, Peru, from March 10-12, focuses on advancing air cargo amid global trade challenges.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will hold its 2026 World Cargo Symposium in Lima, Peru, from 10 to 12 March under the theme 'Advancing Air Cargo in a Dynamic World.' Hosted by LATAM Cargo, this marks the first time the event will take place in South America.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh stated that tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty reshaped global trade in 2025, driving a 3.4 percent growth in air cargo demand. He noted that the symposium will focus on strengthening the industry's ability to respond quickly as trade lanes shift and supply chain reliability becomes increasingly critical.
LATAM Cargo Chief Executive Andres Bianchi emphasized that hosting the symposium in South America highlights the region's growing role in global air cargo. He added that the forum will advance regulatory priorities, digitalization, and special cargo requirements.
Speakers at the event will include Peru's Trade and Tourism Minister Teresa Mera Gomez, LATAM Airlines Group Chief Executive Roberto Alvo, Amazon Global Air's Ali Faddis, IATA's Global Head of Cargo Brendan Sullivan, and IATA's Head of Industry Analysis Julia Seiermann.
The symposium will feature streams on digitalization, regulation, and special cargo, alongside spotlight sessions on sustainability, technology adoption, and operational resilience.
Workshops will include the Future Air Cargo Executives Summit, competency-based training demonstrations, a practical session on ONE Record data standards, and forums on e-commerce, ULD design, and lithium battery safety.
IATA represents about 360 airlines, accounting for more than 80 percent of global air traffic.
