The air cargo spotlight will be on Astana this June as The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) is set to host its first industry event in Central Asia, with the theme Silk Road in the Sky – Kazakhstan Air Cargo Hub.

The themed conference, supported by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport, Civil Aviation Committee, and the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan, will take place on 19-21 June in Astana and will feature topic discussions and business networking.

Steven Polmans, TIACA chairman, said the event promises to bring together over 300 decision makers in air cargo and logistics to showcase their expertise and solutions, as well as learn and debate pressing issues affecting the region.

TIACA highlighted Kazakhstan’s thriving and growing economy in Central Asia, with oil reserves, minerals and metals, as well as the country’s agricultural potential, for both livestock and grain production as well as apples, walnuts, and other crops.

The country is also developing the non-oil sector of its economy, including automotives, pharmaceuticals, processed metal products, mechanical engineering, as well as light industry, construction, and information and communications.

“Kazakhstan is perfectly located as a gateway between east and west and TIACA looks forward to introducing the global air cargo community to the opportunities that exist in this part of the world,” added Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General.

“Innovation, network connectivity and customer-focused solutions are critical for ongoing and sustainable success. The Central Asian event will shine a spotlight and accelerate these crucial enablers of success.”