E-Commerce Committee Mandate

At this time more than ever, International Trade depends on information being disseminated rapidly and seamlessly between all participants in the supply chain. Technology serves to facilitate timely integration of information among a diverse array of service providers, regulatory authorities, buyers, sellers and many others with a vested interest in expediting the flow of goods, documents and money. For all parties, there is a direct co-relation between the quality of information and the quality of their respective service capabilities. The multitude of interest groups involved in this intricate cross section of intertwined players on the international stage share many characteristics and needs. Yet each faces needs, conditions and circumstances that greatly differ from one to the other.

It is also critical to us all to direct our focus on conducting our business affairs without becoming victims to, or slaves of, technological tools and devices. Small and medium forwarders face certain technology driven barriers that may well differ from larger firms that have invested millions of dollars in the development of software aimed at strengthening internal processes. Yet, SME's can advance their access to important trade related data and e-tools through 3rd party providers.

The CIFFA e-commerce committee mandate is to continually keep abreast of new developments and new technologies relating to e-commerce that can provide value to our members. Where the opportunity arises we will form strategic partnerships with e-commerce vendors that can provide specific solutions for the benefit of all member firms. We will take a proactive approach to advising best practices for public and private sector e-commerce initiatives relating to our industry.

All regular and associate members interested in this topic are invited to contact the CIFFA Secretariat at admin@ciffa.com.