China’s Airfreight Shifts from US to Europe Amid Tariffs

China’s airfreight market is redirecting capacity from the US to Europe as new American trade and tariff policies reshape global cargo flows, according to WorldACD. In August, volumes from China and Hong Kong to the US fell 5% year on year, while shipments to Europe rose 11%. Spot rates to the US declined 9%, but remained stable to Europe. Globally, cargo volumes increased 3%, with Asia Pacific origins up 7%. Despite rising demand, rates have softened since May. Analysts warn that recent US moves—including 50% tariffs on Indian imports and removal of “de minimis” exemptions—could further shift trade.