Multiple choice

The International Multi Modal Transport Association (IMMTA) has established offices in Jordan to unite the Middle East logistics industry with its global counterparts, explains Sufyan Al-Muhaisen, IMMTA's vice president.

What is the International Multi Modal Transport Association (IMMTA)?

IMMTA is a non-profit organisation that is dedicated to furthering the concept of international multi modal transport operations throughout the world. We basically want to generate a positive influence on logistics and trade facilitation, not only in the Middle East, but across the globe.

To achieve these goals, we arrange a variety of events where members can exchange ideas and information on modern trade and multi modal logistics operations. This might include training seminars, conferences and awards, in addition to researching and publishing industry papers, articles and books.

When was IMMTA actually established?

Our inception and registration took place in Switzerland around four years ago. Since this time, we have become a global organisation represented in more than 100 countries, with Roster Observer Status through the United Nations and other international bodies.

The current list of members include companies that are involved in multi modal transport and international trade, including carriers, freight forwarders, terminal operators, insurance firms, legal consultants, trucking companies, shipping agents, transport associations, port authorities and academic institutes.

Can you provide some information on 1st Middle East Logistics and Multimodal Transport Conference 2008?

IMMTA understands that the transport and logistics industry has become an essential component of globalisation and is getting attention from around the world.

Therefore, we plan to organise a regular stream of events around the world to introduce the latest multi modal transport strategies and discuss the challenges and opportunities of each region's particular logistics industry.

Along these parameters and noting the ongoing developments in the Middle East transport and logistics market, IMMTA is organising the 1st Middle East Logistics and Multimodal Transport Conference between 20th and 22nd May 2008 at the Royal Cultural Centre in Amman, Jordan.

What type of activities will this event include?

This event comprises two parts. The first is a one-day intensive workshop on logistics and supply chain management, which will be introduced by Dr Stephen Ip, vice president of Hong Kong Logistics Association.

In addition, there will be a two-day forum with keynote speakers from Jordan Customs, Jordan Logistics Association, Dubai Logistics City, DNV Norway and many others from the region and outside.

Speakers will discuss vital international and regional issues, such as the emerging distribution hubs in the Middle East, opportunities and challenges in the logistics market, and regulatory issues within the region.

How will this event benefit the regional logistics industry?

It will help to establish a regional platform for the Arab transport and logistics community, who will be given the chance to interact and network with key leaders from the public sector and business world.

In addition, the delegates will learn about the latest multi modal trends and developments, get an indepth view of emerging regional challenges and opportunities, and generally enhance their knowledge in this important field.

Who are you targetting for this event?

Due to the importance of the topics that will be discussed and presented, I think this event is particularly suitable for logistics professionals, shippers, terminal operators, exporters, insurance firms, bankers, lawyers, consultants and anyone interested in the Middle East logistics industry, together with international transport as a whole.

Why have you selected Jordan for this event and for your regional office in general?

This conference is organised in collaboration with the Jordan Ministry of Transport, with support from the Jordan Shipping Agents Association and the Jordan Logistics Association, the two main bodies representing the country's logistics sector.

There are many reasons behind basing IMMTA's regional office in Jordan, including the support of the local government and the excellent relations with the transport and logistics sector in Jordan.