As the bulk liquid storage industry faces an increasingly complex regulatory and operating environment, the need for focused advocacy and credible, practical education has never been greater.
Terminal operators are navigating evolving federal and state requirements, heightened expectations around safety, security, environmental performance and growing operational pressures. In this environment, a unified industry voice and a trusted forum for collaboration are essential. The International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) serves that role. ILTA is the only trade association dedicated exclusively to the liquid terminal industry, representing terminal operators, suppliers and service providers while advancing operational excellence across the sector.
ILTA members provide critical storage and transportation logistics for a wide range of liquid commodities, including refined petroleum products, crude oil, chemicals, renewable fuels, fertilizers, vegetable oils and other food-grade materials. With more than 2,000 facilities across all 50 states, ILTA members store and transport approximately 1.2 billion bbls of liquid products each year, quietly working behind the scenes to keep supply chains strong and industries running.
ILTA is committed to helping its members deliver safe, reliable and environmentallyresponsible services while ensuring the terminal industry is accurately represented in policy discussions and public dialogue.
Advocacy that reflects operational reality
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., ILTA maintains an active presence on Capitol Hill and across federal agencies that directly affect terminal operations, including the U.S. Coast Guard, DHS, DOE and EPA. ILTA works constructively with regulators and policymakers to provide industry expertise and advocate for practical, risk-based regulatory outcomes.
ILTA also collaborates with related sectors such as refining, chemical manufacturing, ports and waterways, rail and pipeline operators to advance shared objectives and promote consistency across the broader energy and logistics value chain.
Education shaped by industry expertise
ILTA's education programs are designed by and for terminal professionals. Through committees, webinars, technical sessions and peer-driven forums, members gain timely insight into regulatory compliance, safety performance, security planning, workforce challenges and emerging industry trends.
In 2026, ILTA is expanding its education offerings through accredited programming that allows participants to earn recognized continuing education units, reinforcing the quality and rigor of ILTA's educational content.
A connected industry community
ILTA's annual Conference & Trade Show is the premier gathering for the terminal industry, bringing together more than 4,500 professionals from around the world. The event combines executive-level dialogue, technical education and peer networking, providing an environment where operational challenges, innovations and best practices are openly shared. The 2026 Conference & Trade Show returns to Houston June 15-17. Registration information is available at ilta2026.ilta.org.
Throughout the year, ILTA's committees and working groups offer additional opportunities for engagement. Environmental, government affairs, health and safety and security leaders convene regularly to exchange information, identify emerging risks and help shape ILTA's advocacy priorities.
Guiding the industry forward
ILTA serves as a consistent, credible resource that members can rely on for guidance, perspective and practical insight as challenges evolve. Through disciplined advocacy, trusted education and clear communication, ILTA helps members navigate change and make informed decisions that support safe, reliable and resilient operations.
ILTA membership is held at the company level, enabling employees across an organization to access educational resources, participate in committees, engage in advocacy efforts and benefit from professional development opportunities.
For more information, visit ilta.org or contact leisenlohr@ilta.org.
