The logistics playbook is changing. Flexibility and harmonised tools are more important than ever, IRU said at FIATA’s global event.
IRU Director for TIR and Transit Tatiana Rey-Bellet spoke on the panel “Driving Competitiveness of Multimodal Corridors” during the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) HQ Meeting 2026.
Event participants highlighted that cost optimisation is no longer the primary concern. Instead, ensuring access to multiple transport solutions has become the key priority amid ongoing geopolitical and operational uncertainties.
In this context, Tatiana Rey-Bellet outlined new opportunities being developed by IRU in collaboration with its members and national authorities.
While supporting supply chain actors in operating across multiple corridors, she stressed the need for harmonised instruments that can be used regardless of the route. Chief among these is the global TIR transit system.
For example, customs authorities have extended the use of TIR to cover all types of e-commerce and bonded cargo in China, recognising the importance of such tools for international trade.
IRU has also been working with China Railway, manufacturers and logistics companies to pilot an intermodal corridor linking China with Central Asian countries by rail and road.
“Support for TIR continues to grow due to its ability to enhance cargo security, minimise handling along the route, and provide the flexibility to switch between corridors as conditions evolve,” said Tatiana Rey-Bellet.
New routes, new opportunities
The Iraqi corridor is emerging as a strategic link connecting Eastern Europe, Türkiye and beyond with the Middle East, offering additional options for operators navigating regional disruptions.
IRU also echoed the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development on the importance of soft procedures, services and tools to support the efficiency of the Bioceanic Corridor in South America. In this context, Brazil’s recent accession to TIR marks a significant step forward.
Following the event, Tatiana Rey-Bellet met with China International Freight Forwarders Association Secretary General Cyu Jiaguo.
Both sides raised the need to increase awareness about TIR’s benefits for cargo security and border crossing facilitation among all supply chain stakeholders, particularly cargo owners, freight forwarders and transport operators. They agreed to explore joint awareness-raising initiatives in China.