After surging air cargo volumes between the US and China were recorded at the beginning of the year, new data shows that these tonnages have now started to ease.
Figures published by WorldACD show that during the 17th week of the year – between April 21 and April 27, 2025 - tonnages rose slightly after declining for four weeks, in the wake of tariff hikes imposed by both Washington and Beijing but do remain 15% lower in comparison to the same week of the year prior. Spot rates also fell to $4.18 per kilo after peaking at $5.63.
The expected end of US “de minimis” tax exemptions for small shipments from China, effective May 2, 2025, is also likely to reduce demand on this trade route further.
Last week Cathay Pacific said its cargo arm, which carried 10.6% more cargo in March 2025 in comparison to the same month of the year prior, said it would deploy its freighter aircraft on other routes in response to declining tonnages.
On a global front, air cargo demand was seen to rise by 6% in April, when compared to the same month of the year prior. The Asia-Pacific region led the way with a 10% increase in cargo volume compared to April 2024.
The data published shows that April’s growth continues a positive trend, following a 4% increase in March and a 2% rise during the first three-month period of the year. For 2025 so far, global air cargo volumes are up 3% compared to the first four months of 2024.