Habib Turki takes IRU helm amid road transport transformation

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Habib Turki assumes leadership of the International Road Transport Union as the industry faces geopolitical disruption, digital change and mounting pressure to decarbonise supply chains.

Turki took office as Secretary General on August 3, following his election by the IRU General Assembly in May. He succeeds Umberto de Pretto, who led the organisation for 13 years.

For freight operators, the appointment comes as cross border road transport remains central to trade flows while facing customs requirements, supply chain disruption and environmental regulation. IRU represents road transport companies and associations in discussions with governments, organisations and the private sector.

“It is a great honour to serve as IRU’s Secretary General. Road transport is the backbone of the global economy, connecting people, businesses and communities every day,” Turki said.

He said geopolitical, technological and environmental change gives IRU an opportunity to help build a more connected, resilient and sustainable transport system. His priorities include closer engagement with members and governments, digital transformation, innovation and stronger international partnerships.

What does this mean at the border? For hauliers, digital customs systems and common transit procedures can determine whether a truck moves smoothly or waits in a queue. IRU’s work therefore reaches beyond policy discussions into the movement of cargo across borders.

Turki brings 20 years of leadership experience across transport, trade, tourism and sustainable development. He previously worked as IRU’s Regional Adviser for the Middle East between 2015 and 2018.

During that period, he supported the expansion of the TIR customs transit system. His work included assisting the ratification of the TIR Convention by Oman, Palestine, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and leading its implementation in the United Arab Emirates.

The TIR system enables goods to travel through participating countries under customs control, helping reduce repeated inspections and administrative procedures. In practical terms, it acts like a single customs thread running through several borders.

Turki joined the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile in 2019 as Director of Tourism Services. He became Chief Development Officer in 2024, overseeing tourism services, institutional development, public affairs and international partnerships.

He holds degrees in economics and marketing from the University of Tunis El Manar and a Master of Advanced Studies in International Relations and Policy from the Geneva Graduate Institute. Turki speaks Arabic, English and French, as well as Spanish.