IATA World Cargo Symposium 2026: Advancing Air Cargo in a Dynamic World
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 World Cargo Symposium (WCS) will take place in Lima, Peru, from 10–12 March 2026, hosted by LATAM Cargo.
Held under the theme “Advancing Air Cargo in a Dynamic World,” the event will examine how the industry is adapting to shifting global trade conditions, evolving regulatory priorities, advances in special cargo, and continued progress in digitalization.
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Marking a milestone for the industry, WCS 2026 will be the first time the symposium is hosted in South America, reflecting the region’s growing strategic importance in global air cargo.
“Tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty have reshaped global trade and supply chains. The 3.4% growth in air cargo demand in 2025 was strongly influenced by these factors, and we can expect similar dynamics in 2026,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“This year’s World Cargo Symposium will focus on strengthening air cargo’s ability to respond quickly and effectively as trade lanes shift and the value of speed and reliability across the supply chain continues to grow.”
Andres Bianchi, Chief Executive Officer of LATAM Cargo, added: “Air cargo plays a vital role in connecting South America to global markets and supporting the region’s trade and economic development. Hosting the World Cargo Symposium in South America for the first time recognizes the region’s increasing relevance in global air cargo.
"LATAM Cargo is proud to support a forum that brings the industry together to advance regulatory priorities, digitalization, and the evolving demands of special cargo in a dynamic global environment.”
Speakers & Sessions
Willie Walsh and Andres Bianchi will be joined by senior leaders from across the industry, including:
Teresa Mera Gómez, Minister of Trade & Tourism, Peru
Roberto Alvo, CEO, LATAM Airlines Group
Ali Faddis, Director Global Aviation Operations, Amazon Global Air Technology & Infrastructure
Brendan Sullivan, IATA Global Head of Cargo
Julia Seiermann, IATA Head of Industry Analysis
Alongside its core conference streams—digitalization, regulation, and special cargo—WCS 2026 will feature three spotlight sessions focused on practical pathways for the supply chain to:
Improve sustainability practices
Accelerate adoption of new technologies and processes
Enhance operational efficiency and resilience
Workshops & Special Forums
The symposium will be complemented by a series of workshops and recognition programs, including:
Future Air Cargo Executives Summit (FACES): Building the next generation of industry talent
IATA CBTA Center: Demonstrating how competency-based training enhances safety and performance
ONE Record Workshop: A hands-on session covering technical foundations, airline implementation, and a live system demonstration by Lufthansa Cargo and CHAMP
E-Commerce Forum: Exploring how improved visibility between e-retailers and cargo operators can drive efficiency
ULD Forum: Addressing ULD design, AI opportunities, and sustainability data capture
New for 2026, the Lithium Battery Forum will provide insights into lithium battery safety and introduce LAR Verify, IATA’s automated compliance solution for live animal shipments.
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