Full month data for February suggest a weakening China to US air cargo market compared with China to Europe, according to WorldACD's weekly cargo report.
The shift comes as shippers adjust to the swift change in policies and statements coming from the new Trump administration.
Combined tonnages from China and Hong Kong to US in February were down 10%. However, combined tonnages from China and Hong Kong to Europe was up 4% in February 2025, compared to 2024. The figures have factored in and corrected the extra day in February 2024.
China and Hong Kong to US spot rates averaged at $3.80 per kilo in the month, around 9% below their equivalent levels last year. However, Europe average spot prices averaged at $4.58 per kilo, marking a 17% increase on February 2023.
“The different timings of Lunar New Year, which fell on 29 January this year compared with 10 February last year, and February last year having a leap day, complicate both year-on-year and month-on-month absolute comparisons, to some extent,” the report said. “But comparisons between the relative performances of the USA and Europe markets remain valid.”
Overall, worldwide tonnages in February were up 5%, led by Asia Pacific, Central & South America, Europe, and North America increases. However, this was offset by a 6% decrease from Middle East & South Asia (MESA) origins.