Global air cargo volumes saw growth in July across all global regions, up 8% versus June, according to data from WorldACD. This was led by a 9% increase in the Asia Pacific region. Volumes were up 6% compared to July last year.
When compared to the same month of the prior year, North America and Central & South America followed with 5% growth each, while the Middle East & South Asia (MESA) rose 4% and Europe 3%. Africa was flat.
Global airfreight rates dropped 2% in July, maintaining the downward trend seen in May and June. The most significant decline came from MESA, where rates fell 11%, while Asia Pacific saw a 4% drop. Rates from Europe and Africa increased 5% and 6% respectively, and North America remained flat.
Spot pricing from Asia Pacific to the US was down 15%, while Japan posted a 7% rise. Rates from China and Hong Kong to the US edged up 2% but were still 15% below 2024 levels, with volumes down 4%.
With tariffs now largely in place as of August, the added clarity may support improved forward planning, said WorldACD. However, it remains unclear whether this will drive renewed momentum in global air cargo flows - or dampen demand in the months ahead.