NEW DELHI: Early this week, the FIATA Multimodal Transport Institute (MTI) came together to discuss the impacts of the ongoing events in Ukraine on freight forwarding and logistics across sea, rail and road transport. Beyond the dramatic human consequences to which the sector is particularly moved, global supply chains, already weakened by the effects of the pandemic and the ongoing maritime crisis, are being significantly impacted. Issues cited include driver shortages, difficulties to transport cargo within the affected region, and capacity issues. Rising fuel prices are expected to be a challenge for the industry as a whole.

It was noted that multimodal solutions are key to ensuring the flow of goods around the affected area throughout this conflict, with border crossings reportedly being possible through rail transport across Moldova and the Port of Galati, or through Romania which provides port access. Trans-Caspian routes are expected to play a key role.

FIATA members should be aware of the sanctions imposed by certain countries in response to the conflict, and should ensure that they consult the relevant government pages on a regular basis. Currently, countries imposing related sanctions include, inter alia: Australia, European Union, United Kingdom, and United States. It is understood that further sanctions are under contemplation.