Middle East–Asia corridor volumes rise by 7.8%: IATA

Trade lanes linking the Middle East and Asia showed growth in volumes at 7.8 per cent compared to last year, as per IATA. This marked the sixth straight month of expansion for the corridor, confirming its importance as a key driver of regional cargo. “Volumes continue to grow even as global trade patterns change. Air cargo has advanced from a shift from ocean cargo for high-value goods as shippers try to minimise the risk of tariffs,” said Willie Walsh, Director-General, IATA. Africa–Asia routes also performed well, up 8.4 per cent in August, highlighting stronger trade flows between emerging markets. However, some trade lanes struggled. The Asia–North America route fell 2.2 per cent, marking the fourth month of decline. The Middle East–Europe corridor also dropped slightly by 0.8 per cent, while cargo within Europe declined by 0.9 per cent. Overall, global demand for air cargo rose 4.1 per cent in August, the sixth consecutive month of growth. Capacity increased 3.7 per cent, supported by lower jet fuel prices and stronger global trade.