A STUDY OF CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT FORWARDING

Abstract: This study investigates the challenges and opportunities in international freight forwarding, focusing on operational, regulatory, technological, and environmental dynamics. Using a descriptive research design, data was collected from 120 freight forwarding professionals through a structured questionnaire, analyzing variables such as age, gender, experience, and organizational roles. Findings reveal a workforce with many new entrants, a moderate gender imbalance, and a dominance of large-scale organizations. Key challenges include regulatory disruptions, documentation discrepancies, and skilled manpower shortages, while opportunities lie in e- commerce growth, emerging markets, and digitalization. The study identifies strong support for automation and digital tools but resistance to technologies like blockchain and skepticism toward green logistics demand. Environmental regulations significantly influence operations, urging sustainable practices. Recommendations include enhancing workforce development, streamlining compliance, adopting technology, and prioritizing sustainability to improve competitiveness in global trade.