The first annual Transport, Logistics and Freight Forwarding Forum, organized by Manager magazine, was held on December 5, 2024 at Inter Expo Center, Sofia.
The event brought together leading experts, business and government representatives to discuss key challenges and opportunities for the transport and logistics sector.
The forum was structured in four thematic panels:
Economic perspectives – new horizons and regulatory challenges: participants addressed issues such as Bulgaria’s entry into the land-based Schengen, the state of infrastructure and the impact of new European regulations on the sector.
Sustainability and digital solutions: discussions focused on the challenges in maritime transport and the implementation of electronic bills of lading.
Innovation Lab: New technologies and artificial intelligence were presented as key transformation factors in logistics. Companies with successful experience in automation and sustainable solutions shared their experiences.
Online Expansion for Successful Business: Experts discussed strategies for international expansion, innovations in fulfillment solutions and building effective supply networks.Among the participants were Simeon Ananiev, Chairman of the Board of the Green Transport Cluster, Vasil Lyaskov, CEO of PIMK Holding, and Todor Ivandjikov, Founder and Managing Director of the Bulgarian Aviation Industry Association. Moderators of the panels were Momchil Antov, Director of the “National Association of Bulgarian Freight Forwarders”, and Eng. Martin Yanev, Manager and Vice-Chairman of “Green Transport Cluster”.
Todor Ivandjikov, President of the “Bulgarian Aviation Industry Association” took part in the first discussion panel on “Economic Prospects – New Horizons and Regulatory Challenges”, which discussed issues such as:
– the potential obstacles and opportunities for Bulgaria to join the land-based Schengen
– the state of infrastructure and the impact of new regulations on the industry.
In his speech, he focused on the growing importance of air cargo for the development of the sector. According to Mr. Ivandjikov, in order to establish Bulgaria as a strategic transport hub, it is necessary to build an airport with a specialized cargo terminal, modern equipment and efficient connectivity with land transport. In addition, the creation of a customs system to serve customers expressly is a key factor in attracting more business and generating significant revenues for the state.
The event provided a successful platform for strategic discussions, exchange of practical experience and expert opinions aimed at the dynamic development of the transport and logistics sector in Bulgaria.
