The low number of IATA accreditedcargo agents in Indonesia has promptedthe Indonesian Freight Forwarders’ Association(INFA) and the InternationalAir Transport Association (IATA) toincrease their collaboration and takethe necessary measures to improve theair cargo industry in the country.

INFA chairman, Soekarno HattaArman Yahya said that every effortfor the betterment of the industry iscounted.

Though there are several parties involvedin the industry, the airlines andcargo agents have the main responsibilityfor the direction and growth of aircargo industry in Indonesia, he said.

"Let us be proactive in improving this sector," Yahya invited participantsof recent CASS/DIP roadshow in Jakarta.He added that airlines play importantrole in increasing the numberof accredited cargo agents, while agentsshould adapt to new developments in the industry.

One way of increasing the numberof IATA accredited agents, is by encouragingmembers to join the DefaultInsurance Programme (DIP).

"DIP will position us on the same level with multinational companies," Yahya said. At the same time, INFA alsohopes that the procedure for IATA accreditationwill be simplified.

Nicole Chiang, IATA’s assistant managerof agency accreditation for AsiaPacific said that the IATA accreditationis crucial because member airlines willengage cargo agents in handling theirfreight around the world.

"Member airlines require cargoagents to be accredited because ofthe commitments they are making onbehalf of airlines. IATA ensures thatagents attain & maintain professional &financial criteria and adhere to resolutionsof the Cargo Agency Programme,"Chiang said.

– Siktus Harson