Conqueror Releases March Newsletter Highlighting Business Opportunities and Key Industry Developments

The latest edition features insights on converting meetings into real partnerships, analysis of potential Strait of Hormuz disruptions, and a roundup of member achievements and sector headlines

Conqueror Freight Network published its March 2026 newsletter, bringing together a mix of practical insights, industry analysis, and member updates designed to keep its global community informed and connected.

At the centre of this edition is a featured blog titled “From Conversations to Contracts: Turning Meetings into Business.” The article focuses on how members can maximize the value of networking opportunities, particularly during Conqueror’s 12th Annual Meeting, by turning initial conversations into long-term partnerships and tangible business results.

Conqueror Newsletter for March 2026

The newsletter also highlights a key piece of sector news examining the potential global impact of disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. With analysts warning that a prolonged closure could affect up to $1.2 trillion in global trade, the feature explores the broader implications for supply chains, energy markets, and global freight.

In addition to the feature articles, the March edition includes a curated selection of headline news from across the logistics and transport sector. These updates provide a quick overview of the latest trends and developments shaping the industry, helping members stay up to date in a rapidly changing environment.

The newsletter also offers easy access to recently published blog content, covering a range of relevant topics for freight forwarders. Alongside this, members can explore a dedicated section featuring members’news over the past three months.  By bringing together insights, updates, and member highlights, the March newsletter continues to strengthen engagement across the network and keep members updated with both opportunities and industry shifts.

Conqueror Supports Mediterranean Ports and Logistics 2026 to Strengthen Industry Connections

The partnership highlights Conqueror’s commitment to strengthening collaboration and driving growth across the Mediterranean logistics sector

Conqueror Freight Network has confirmed its participation as a Supporting Organization for Mediterranean Ports and Logistics 2026, one of the region’s most influential gatherings for port operations, shipping, and supply chain development. Taking place from 28th to 30th April 2026 at the Sheraton Porto Hotel & Spa in Porto, Portugal, the event will bring together a strong lineup of industry decision-makers from across the Mediterranean logistics ecosystem.

Organized by the Administration of the Ports of Douro, Leixões and Viana do Castelo (APDL), with YILPORT Holding as Strategic Partner, the conference is expected to welcome more than 400 senior professionals, including port authorities, government representatives, shipping lines, freight forwarders, and logistics providers.

The programme will begin with a guided visit to Porto’s port and logistics infrastructure, offering attendees a practical insight into operations at one of the region’s key maritime hubs. This will be followed by two days of conference sessions featuring 40 international speakers addressing critical industry topics such as port digitalisation, green shipping initiatives, infrastructure expansion, hinterland connectivity, and supply chain resilience.

Additionally, Porto’s location on Portugal’s Atlantic coast positions it as a strategic gateway linking Atlantic and Mediterranean trade flows. Its role in facilitating international trade continues to grow, supported by ongoing investments in port and logistics capabilities.

By supporting this event, Conqueror reinforces its commitment to creating valuable networking opportunities for its members while staying closely aligned with industry developments. The conference offers an excellent platform for members to engage with key stakeholders, explore new business prospects, and strengthen their presence in the Mediterranean market.

Members interested in strengthening their presence in the Mediterranean Ports are encouraged to take part in this event.

Click here to register.

Conqueror’s Annual Meeting in Bangkok to feature exclusive corporate Day Trip for delegates and their spouses

Scheduled for 7th May 2026, this immersive Bangkok tour blends heritage, networking, and informal relationship-building ahead of one-to-one meetings

Conqueror Freight Network’s 12th Annual Meeting in Bangkok will open with a specially curated Day Trip, offering delegates a chance to connect in a relaxed setting before the official business sessions begin. Conqueror is set to offer delegates and their spouses a memorable experience through this exclusive tour of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Taking place on 7th May 2026, the optional six-and-a-half-hour tour promises a balanced mix of history, culture, and relaxed interaction in an informal setting.

Running from 09:00 to 15:30, the tour begins with an early morning departure from the hotel, taking participants to Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest and most revered temples, home to the famous Reclining Buddha and a renowned traditional Thai massage school. From there, delegates will travel to the Grand Palace, a spectacular complex that once served as the royal residence and houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), Thailand’s most sacred religious site.

Following the temple visits, attendees will take a short walk to the pier and continue their journey by boat to Supatra River House, where they will enjoy a traditional Thai lunch overlooking the Chao Phraya River. The experience continues with a scenic boat ride through Bangkok’s historic canals, offering a glimpse into the city’s unique blend of old-world charm and modern life.

The day trip concludes with a return transfer to the hotel by mid-afternoon, allowing delegates time to prepare for the official meeting sessions beginning the following day.

Beyond sightseeing, the Day Trip has been thoughtfully designed to create opportunities for members to connect on a more personal level. By bringing delegates together in a relaxed and engaging environment, the experience helps break the ice, strengthen existing partnerships, and encourage meaningful conversations that often translate into long-term collaborations.

Conqueror's 12th Annual Meeting - Day Trip

“Our Day Trip is more than just a cultural excursion; it is an essential part of the networking experience at Conqueror,” says Maria Serrano, Head Office Manager. “Spending time together outside the meeting room allows members to build genuine connections, which ultimately makes their business relationships stronger and more productive during the one-to-one meetings.”

With its combination of cultural discovery and informal networking, this Day Trip is set to be one of the highlights of Conqueror’s Bangkok gathering, offering delegates not just a tour of the city, but a shared experience that lays the foundation for stronger global partnerships.

Members can complete their registration and access payment details through the Members Area, where they can select the Day Trip option while finalizing their Annual Meeting registration.

12th Annual Meeting

The People Behind Conqueror: The Team Powering an International Freight Forwarding Community

Technology supports the network, but it is people who build the relationships that keep global freight forwarders connected

Technology, automation, and artificial intelligence have become essential tools in today’s logistics landscape. At Conqueror Freight Network, we welcome these innovations whenever they help our community operate more efficiently and stay connected. Yet the real strength of our global freight forwarding network does not come from technology alone. It comes from the people who stand behind it.

“A freight forwarding network is much more than a directory of companies. Freight forwarders succeed when they know they can rely on the network around them. Our job as a team is to support those relationships, respond when members need us, and make sure the community continues to grow stronger every year.”
— Antonio Torres, President, Conqueror Freight Network

Behind Conqueror, there is a real team working every day to support our members and ensure the network remains active, responsive, and valuable for freight forwarders worldwide.

Antonio Torres

María Serrano

Andrea Martin

Latifa Boulmal

Clarisse Saavedra

Waqar I. Mirza

Angelika Jarin

Rianna Yu

Neena Gupta

Africa Castro

Isabel Magdaleno

Manuel Cardona

Jesús Mera

Tamishra Basu

Luisana Escobar

Miguel Ballestas

Managing Communication and Membership

For many members, their first interaction with Conqueror begins with a simple email. If you write to us today, Andrea, Latifa, Waqar, Clarisse, or Rianna may be the ones replying to your message. They handle daily communications with members and partners across different regions, ensuring that questions are answered promptly and that every request receives the attention it deserves. Their work keeps the lines of communication open between the network and its global community.

However, Conqueror’s membership evaluation process is handled with great care to preserve the network’s high standards. Applications are first reviewed by the team according to strict criteria designed to ensure that every new member meets the professional and operational requirements expected within the community. The final decision rests with Antonio Torres, the president and founder,  whose approval ensures that each company admitted into the network aligns with Conqueror’s values and long-term vision.

At the same time, María Serrano plays a key role in ensuring that all departments remain aligned with a single objective: delivering the highest level of service to Conqueror members and making their experience within the network both positive and rewarding. Through close coordination across the team, she helps maintain the efficiency and member-focused approach that defines Conqueror.

Guidance and Support for the Network Members

Once a company becomes a member, support continues well beyond the onboarding stage. International logistics often involves complex transactions, multiple partners, and occasionally disputes that require careful mediation. When members need guidance or assistance, colleagues such as Neena, África, or Isabel step in to help facilitate communication and resolve issues in a fair and professional manner. Their work strengthens trust among members and helps maintain the cooperative spirit that allows forwarders to work confidently with partners across the world.

Technology and Visibility for Members

Technology also plays a crucial role in connecting the network, and Manuel ensures that Conqueror’s digital infrastructure runs smoothly. From maintaining the member platform to supporting the tools that enable communication and collaboration, his work helps ensure that members can access the information and services they need without interruption. In a network that spans continents and time zones, reliable technology is an essential backbone.

At the same time, visibility is a key factor in helping independent freight forwarders grow their international presence. Angelika, Tamishra, Luisana, Miguel, and Jesús work continuously to highlight the achievements and expertise of our members. Through member interviews, industry articles, newsletters, and social media content, the team creates opportunities for members to showcase their work and strengthen their global reputation. Their efforts ensure that the network is not only a platform for collaboration but also a space where members can share their stories and gain recognition within the logistics industry.

A Team Committed to the Community

Together, this team forms the human foundation of Conqueror Freight Network. Every message answered, every application reviewed, every dispute mediated, and every piece of content published reflects a shared commitment to supporting the community of independent freight forwarders who rely on the network.

This philosophy of personal connection is also reflected in one of the most important events of the year for the network: the Conqueror Annual Meeting. Bringing members together from around the world, the meeting provides a space where partners can meet face-to-face, strengthen existing relationships, and explore new collaboration opportunities. While technology allows members to stay connected throughout the year, these in-person gatherings play a key role in reinforcing the trust and cooperation that define the Conqueror community.

As logistics continues to evolve with new technologies and digital tools, the importance of human relationships remains unchanged. Trust, cooperation, and communication are still the core elements that allow freight forwarders to work together successfully across borders. At Conqueror, technology helps us move faster and operate more efficiently. But it is our team, working behind the scenes every day, that keeps the network connected and ensures that our members always have the support they need.

Conqueror Freight Network Becomes Supporting Organisation of The Maritime Standard 2026 Events

Through this partnership, Conqueror strengthens its engagement with the wider maritime community and opens new avenues of collaboration for freight forwarders worldwide

Conqueror Freight Network is pleased to announce a partnership agreement with The Maritime Standard (TMS), under which Conqueror will serve as the supporting organisation for all major TMS events scheduled throughout 2026. This partnership reinforces cooperation between the freight forwarding and maritime sectors, fostering closer connections between logistics providers, shipping lines, port authorities, and maritime service companies. As the supporting organisation, Conqueror will actively promote participation among its global membership and help broaden the international reach of these prominent industry gatherings. The partnership covers the complete calendar of TMS conferences and awards, listed below in chronological order.

TMS AITECH Conference

14th April 2026 | Dubai, UAE

Focused on the growing role of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies in maritime operations, the TMS AITECH Conference will examine how digitalisation, automation, and predictive analytics are transforming shipping, ports, and supply chain management.

TMS Global Awards

7th July 2026 | Guildhall, London, UK

The inaugural Maritime Standard Global Awards 2026 will usher in a new chapter in international maritime recognition, bringing together leading figures from shipping, ports, and logistics to celebrate outstanding achievements across the maritime industry.

TMS Transportation & Climate Change Conference

24th September 2026 | Saadiyat Rotana, Abu Dhabi, UAE

The TMS Transportation & Climate Change Conference will focus on the maritime sector’s response to environmental challenges, sustainability initiatives, regulatory developments, and decarbonisation efforts shaping global trade. The event will gather industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to exchange ideas, encourage cooperation, and promote practical strategies for a more sustainable transport sector.

TMS Awards

10th November 2026 | Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, UAE

With over a decade of established success, the TMS Awards has become one of the most prominent maritime awards events in Dubai. Internationally recognised for its high production standards and transparent judging process, the ceremony celebrates excellence across shipping, ports, and maritime services in the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent.

TMS Tanker Conference

11th November 2026 | Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, UAE

The TMS Tanker Conference brings together key stakeholders from the tanker and energy shipping sectors to discuss market trends, regulatory developments, operational challenges, and risk management in tanker shipping.

Through this partnership, Conqueror further strengthens dialogue between freight forwarders and the broader maritime community. As global trade becomes more interconnected, cooperation between logistics networks and maritime stakeholders plays an increasingly important role in ensuring resilience, innovation, and sustainable growth.

By supporting these events, Conqueror members gain greater visibility within the maritime sector and more opportunities to connect with decision-makers shaping the future of shipping and global transport. Conqueror encourages its members to take part in these conferences as valuable platforms for industry exposure, knowledge sharing, and networking.

Notice

The TMS AITECH Conference will take place on 14th April 2026 at Taj Exotica Resort, The Palm, Dubai, UAE. The event will bring together leaders from the maritime and technology sectors to explore how artificial intelligence and digital transformation are being applied across shipping and logistics.

10 Weeks to Go: Conqueror Freight Network Heads to Bangkok for the 12th Annual Meeting

From 7th to 9th May, members of Conqueror Freight Network will gather at the InterContinental Bangkok for three days of focused networking, strategic conversations, and long-term partnership building. With just ten weeks left, momentum is building fast.

Emails move shipments, but face-to-face conversations move relationships. In a business built on trust, timing, and accountability, looking someone in the eye still matters. It strengthens your presence within the network, builds credibility faster than any introduction call, and often opens the door to projects that would never surface over email alone. This industry runs on people as much as processes. Meeting in person reminds everyone of that human side.

Over 100 delegates have already confirmed their attendance, and the list is still growing. If you haven’t registered yet, this is the moment to secure your place.

Why You Should Register Now

Attendance is rising steadily, and your preferred meeting slots will fill quickly once the scheduler opens. Registering early ensures you’re positioned to make the most of every opportunity the event offers. Please note that hotel reservations must be made at least 15 days before the event and are subject to availability. Rooms may sell out earlier, so booking well in advance is strongly advised.

Register now!

 

Secure Your Room at the InterContinental

We strongly recommend confirming your accommodation at least 60 days before the event to guarantee availability at the official venue hotel. Conqueror has secured special preferential rates for all delegates, making your stay not only convenient but also cost-effective. Staying at the InterContinental Bangkok keeps you close to the action, maximizes spontaneous networking, and removes unnecessary travel time between sessions, so you can focus entirely on building meaningful connections.

InterContinental Bangkok - Venue for Conqueror's 2026 Annual Meeting

Sort Out Your Travel Essentials Early

Once your room is secured, take a moment to review your visa requirements and confirm your flight arrangements. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and apply for any necessary visa in advance. Booking your tickets early also gives you better options and smoother connections, especially if you plan to join the optional Day Trip and Welcome Cocktail Reception.

Now Let’s Focus on What Really Drives Results

If you’ve already registered and secured your room, you’ve taken care of the essentials and the groundwork is done. Now we move to the finer points. This is where strategy comes in. The real value of the Annual Meeting is shaped long before you walk into the room. The way you plan your meetings, prioritize partners, and structure your time will determine the return you take home from Bangkok.

One to One Meetings at Conqueror's Annual Meeting

The One-to-One Meeting Scheduler

The One-to-One Meetings are where real business happens. The Meeting Scheduler opens on 16th April for all registered agents. On the opening day at 12:15 PM (Paris/Madrid time), delegates who have completed their payment will receive an email with login details and a direct link to begin booking meetings.

Upgrade your one-to-one meeting experience

Priority access to Meeting Scheduler

The one-to-one meeting experience can also be upgraded through Priority Access, allowing you to secure key appointments before the general opening. If you want first pick of your preferred partners, Priority Access gives you a one-day head start. The scheduler will open on 15th April for agents who have applied and paid for Priority Access.

We will remind you to book your meeting slots closer to the date.

V.I.P. Table with Your Company Logo

Additionally, you can reserve your own fixed meeting table, clearly branded with your company logo and identity. Instead of moving from table to table throughout the day, you remain in one professional, dedicated space while your partners come directly to you. This setup adds structure to your schedule, saves time between meetings, and positions your company with greater visibility throughout the room. Your logo stays in sight all day, reinforcing your presence beyond the 20-minute conversations.

Day Trip - Conqueror's Annual Meeting

Building Connections Beyond the Meeting Room

The Day Trip

The Annual Meeting features an exciting optional Day Trip to some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. It’s open to delegates and their spouses and offers a relaxed, informal setting to connect before the formal meetings begin. When you share an experience outside the meeting room, conversations flow differently. Barriers drop. Trust builds faster. This corporate group tour is designed to help members strengthen relationships ahead of the one-to-one meetings scheduled for the following day.

To register: Log in to your Members Area and click the “Meeting registration” button on the left side of your dashboard. Complete the online form and select the Day Trip option during registration.

Stay Connected with the Conqueror Web App

To make your experience even more efficient, Conqueror provides all delegates with access to a dedicated web application designed specifically for the Annual Meeting. This tool keeps everything in one place. You’ll have instant access to the full agenda, your scheduled one-to-one meetings, event updates, venue details, and any last-minute announcements. No printed papers to manage. No confusion about timing or room changes. Everything sits in your pocket, accessible from your mobile phone throughout the event.

As we get closer to May, confirmed attendees will receive their login credentials and full access details. Once inside, you’ll be able to review your schedule in advance and stay aligned with every session and activity during the conference.

Bangkok Is Calling

Ten weeks may sound like plenty of time, but the calendar moves quickly. With more than 100 delegates already confirmed, this promises to be one of the most dynamic editions yet. Register, secure your room, plan your meetings, and consider upgrading your participation.

Bangkok awaits.

Conqueror Mexico City Manages End-to-End Yamaha Marine Engine Imports Throughout 2025

OrbeAduana Group strengthened its role as a specialized logistics and customs partner through the integrated handling of Yamaha marine engines and spare parts

Throughout 2025, OrbeAduana Group, Conqueror member in Mexico City, managed the full import cycle of Yamaha marine engines and related spare parts, reinforcing its expertise in handling regulated, high-value cargo that demands precision at every stage of the supply chain.

The operation involved the integrated coordination of international transportation, customs clearance, and regulatory compliance, ensuring that shipments arrived on schedule and met all applicable import requirements. For marine engines, where technical specifications and documentation accuracy are critical, OrbeAduana’s end-to-end control played a central role in minimizing delays and avoiding compliance risks.

Marine Engines Import
OrbeAduana Manages Yamaha Marine Engines Import

“Handling the importation of marine engines is not just about moving cargo,” said Arturo Pacheco García, Logistics Director at OrbeAduana. “It requires a deep understanding of customs regulations, product classification, and documentation accuracy. Our objective is to ensure that every shipment moves through the process without friction.”

In addition to complete engines, the company also oversaw the importation of Yamaha spare parts, a segment where consistency and timing are essential to downstream distribution and after-sales service. By managing both engines and components under a unified operational framework, OrbeAduana provided its client with greater visibility and control across the supply chain.

The Yamaha program was supported by the company’s broader experience in handling specialized cargo and coordinating with international partners. During the year, they also collaborated with network members in China on Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) operations, aligning customs responsibilities and cost structures to maintain predictability for the importer. Air freight coordination with partners in Europe further complemented the company’s ability to adapt routing and transport modes as needed.

According to Pacheco García, this level of coordination has become increasingly important as trade regulations grow more complex. “Clients are looking for partners who can manage both logistics and compliance as a single process,” he noted. “That integration is what allows us to support high-value imports like Yamaha engines without disruption.”

Beyond the Yamaha program, OrbeAduana continued to handle other complex shipments in 2025, including specialized equipment and project cargo.  “These operations require a high level of trust and alignment between partners,” Pacheco García added. “Working within a vetted network allows us to move quickly while maintaining control over compliance and service quality.”

Congratulations to Conqueror Mexico City and all the best for their projects in 2026!

Conqueror Supports Philippine Ports and Logistics 2026 in Manila

From 10–12 March 2026, Manila, industry leaders will gather for three days of conferences, exhibitions, and technical visits

From 10th to 12th March 2026, Manila will host one of Southeast Asia’s most influential maritime and logistics gatherings. Philippine Ports and Logistics 2026 will take place at Solaire Resort, convening key stakeholders from across the region for three days of conferences, exhibitions, and technical engagement. Conqueror Freight Network is proud to be a supporting organisation of this important industry event.

Philippine Ports and Logistics 2026
Philippine Ports and Logistics 2026

Endorsed by the Philippine Department of Transportation, the conference will attract strong participation from both government authorities and private sector leaders. Strategically positioned along major Asia Pacific trade routes and near the South China Sea, the Philippines continues to strengthen its role as a regional shipping and logistics hub. Its ports serve as vital connectors between global markets and rapidly expanding Southeast Asian supply chains.

The conference will begin with a technical visit to Manila’s port and logistics facilities, giving delegates direct exposure to the infrastructure, systems, and operational strategies driving the country’s maritime development. Over the following two days, more than 40 international speakers will address an audience of over 400 senior decision-makers. Attendees will include representatives from port authorities, shipping lines, freight forwarders, terminal operators, cargo owners, logistics providers, and government bodies.

The exhibition area, featuring 50 dedicated stands, will provide companies with valuable opportunities to showcase services, strengthen partnerships, and explore new commercial prospects in the Asia Pacific market.

Conqueror members seeking greater visibility and stronger connections in Southeast Asia are encouraged to consider participating in this leading regional event.

Click here to register.

Conqueror Santiago Shares Updated 2026 SOPs for Imports into Chile

The new procedures outline strict Chilean Customs requirements to help partners avoid penalties and operational delays

Cronos Logistica Spa, Conqueror member in Santiago, Chile, has shared its updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs for 2026) covering all import operations into the country. The updated guidelines aim to help partners avoid penalties and operational delays in an environment where Chilean Customs applies increasingly strict controls.

Chile Customs Requirements
Chile Customs Requirements: Updates from Cronos Logistica

The updated SOPs also highlight several critical compliance points that partners must follow closely. Any discrepancy between the MAWB, HAWB, or cargo manifest will result in a USD 180 fine. Pre-alerts are mandatory and must be sent at least 24 working hours before flight arrival for air shipments, while for ocean shipments, they must be transmitted immediately after vessel departure. Late customs transmission of HAWB details will incur an additional USD 200 penalty.

In addition, all wooden packaging used for shipments to Chile must fully comply with ISPM 15 (NIMF 15) regulations and carry the appropriate official stamp. Chilean Customs also requires the submission of original HAWBs only; copies are not accepted under any circumstances.

“Chilean Customs is extremely rigorous, and even small errors can lead to delays and penalties,” says Mrs Karla Benavente, Managing Director of Cronos Logistica Spa. “By clearly setting out these procedures, we want to give our partners the guidance they need to ensure full compliance and keep their shipments moving without disruption.”

Lastly, situations like these highlight the importance of working with dependable partners on the ground who understand local regulations in detail. Having experienced international logistics partners with real, up-to-date knowledge of customs practices can make the difference between a smooth operation and costly disruptions.

Cronos Logistica Spa encourages all partners to download and review the SOP relevant to their department to ensure they are fully aligned with the updated import requirements for Chile.

Click here to download Air Shipment SOP

Click here to download Ocean Freight SOP

Conqueror Antwerp Welcomes New Head of Forwarding Department

Van Moer Forwarding appoints Tim Soetens, bringing over 17 years of international forwarding experience

Van Moer Forwarding, Conqueror member in Antwerp, Belgium, has welcomed Tim Soetens as the new head of its forwarding department. Tim joined the company on January 5th and brings more than 17 years of experience from Expeditors International.

freight forwarder Antwerp
Van Moer Forwarding Appoints Tim Soetens as Head of Forwarding Department

Over the course of his career, Tim has worked across a wide range of roles, starting in ocean import operations and progressing into management positions. He has led import teams, handled regional European responsibilities for both LCL and FCL shipments, and managed branch-level operations covering all ocean-related activities. This background gives him a strong foundation to oversee Van Moer’s forwarding team and further develop its forwarding services, with a particular focus on the chemical sector.

“I’m very pleased to have joined Van Moer Logistics and to take on this new responsibility,” says Tim Soetens. “I look forward to working closely with the team to build on the company’s strengths and support our customers with reliable, high-quality forwarding solutions.”

Van Moer has expressed strong confidence in Tim’s ability to settle into his role quickly, noting that his hands-on approach and operational background make him a valuable addition to the team.

Conqueror Freight Network joins Van Moer Forwarding in welcoming Tim and looks forward to his active participation within the network!