Gulf cargo demand up 3% ahead of Lunar New Year

The Middle East air cargo market remained stable in the final week of January, as global demand rose by 3 per cent week on week, as per WorldACD Market Data. The performance comes in the lead-up to Lunar New Year on 17 February, which falls later this year compared with 2025.Globally, volumes were supported by strong flower shipments from Central and South America and East Africa, ahead of Valentine’s Day.

There was no significant pre-lunar year surge from Asia Pacific origins, where overall tonnages remained flat week on week. While Vietnam and Taiwan recorded growth in shipments to the US, the region overall saw little change. For Gulf carriers and major hub airports, stable APAC flows translated into consistent transit cargo moving to Europe and North America.

Spot rates from Asia-Pacific to the US and Europe increased, reflecting steady demand despite weather-related disruptions in the US. Worldwide average air freight rates reached $2.42 per kilo in week five, slightly up week on week but still below last year’s levels. The market remains balanced ahead of the holiday period.