Airfreight Insights
Read our Airfreight Insights to find out about the latest developments in the global air cargo industry. Get an update on trade and rate developments as well as flexible solutions offered by cargo-partner to deal with the current challenges.
The global airfreight industry continues to face a variety of challenges, from looming trade conflicts to a cooling global economy. Uncertainty around the erratic US tariff policy continues to impact international airfreight.
- After the US administration ended the “de minimis” exemptions (duty-free status) for parcel imports from China, transpacific cargo flows shifted significantly.
- This led to a decrease of US-bound airfreight volumes and an exodus of freighter capacity to alternative markets. Most of them redeployed to Asia-Europe routes and some now serve the Latin American market, predominantly used for e-commerce shipping.
- The tariff exemption for China has been extended once again, with a current deadline of November 10.
- As a direct result of US tariffs, global air cargo demand is expected to increase only marginally in 2025.
Current market assessment from October 12, 2025:
Legend: traffic lights showing current status, arrow indicates possible development of transport rates.
Current Key Takeaways
Short-Term Outlook (Next 6-12 Weeks)
- Europe → Asia:Steady demand supported by seasonal replenishment, with rates remaining low due to significant overcapacities
- Asia → Europe:Volumes are increasing, with peak-season pricing driven by a strong e-commerce demand and pre-holiday restocking
- Europe → North America:Demand remains stable, though seasonal peaks and winter schedule cuts may tighten space capacity
Practical Recommendations for Customers
- Book time-sensitive shipments earlier to secure space
- Consider multi-modal options if beneficial (Sea-Air, Rail)
- Alternative routings via secondary gateways (e.g. Land-Air from China via Southeast Asia to Europe)
- Stay alert to hub disruptions and tariff changes
- Forward planning and flexibility remain key
cargo-partner Solutions & Products:
- When every second counts: EMERGENCY Air Cargo solutions (click for more)
- Our Speed Service Levels – the choice is yours! (click for PDF)
- Weekly consolidation services from VIE/CEE to the USA (click for PDF)
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) solutions (click for PDF)
- Weekly Charter Flights: Hong Kong – Eastern Europe (click for PDF)
cargo-partner Key Gateways
- Dual gateway VIE/BUD to cover the Central and Eastern European region
- Coverage of China by our gateways in South, Central and North China
- Our gateways offer extensive connectivity and advanced infrastructure
- Dedicated gateway teams in Europe and Asia ensure streamlined operations
- Benefit from regular consolidation programs with competitive pricing
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