AN international freight forwarding company maintains a positive outlook amid the global economic crunch that is affecting the country’s export industry.

Global Carrier Philippines Inc. managing director Camel de Pio-Salvador said there is a “big future” in the forwarding industry with the liberalization of trade among countries under the World Trade Organization.

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She cited the lowering of trade barriers and the establishment of free trade agreements that prompt countries to remove tariffs on imports.

But she admitted that Global Carrier has experienced a “slight decline” in terms of volume of shipment. “We never experienced zero” even as the country begins to feel the effects of the global financial crisis, she said.

“The (forwarding) industry is relatively okay. It’s a continuing business,” she said.

She expressed hope that there will be more investors in the import and export industry.

De Pio-Salvador raised the need for establishing linkages with industry stakeholders in other parts of the world.

Last June 11 to 14, de Pio-Salvador attended the 6th Annual Sino-International Freight Forwarders Conference at Asia World Expo in Hong Kong. The event, organized jointly by the China International Freight Forwarders Association and World Cargo Alliance, provided a venue for top independent international logistics companies to network and explore opportunities for business growth.

It was attended by 1,500 delegates from 140 countries and regions. Global Carrier Philippines Inc. was the only Cebu-based company present.

“Through the conference, we were matched with other forwarders (with whom we) created contacts. At the same time, we were able to check the top (export and import) products in their locations,” de Pio-Salvador said.

Incorporated in 1994, Global Carrier Philippines Inc. offers comprehensive cargo services. It also caters to expatriates and consultants in the mining, cement manufacturing and energy generation sectors.