July airfreight volumes up 5% due to frontloading and modal shift
08 Aug, 2025
Market analysis for July showed global air cargo volumes climbed 5% year on year as frontloading continued and more shippers opted to send their goods by air to avoid the impact of tariffs.
Xeneta's analysis for July was a surprise turnaround from IATA's report of weakened trade due to tariffs in June, which saw just 0.8% year on year growth. However, Xeneta stressed the growth is certainly to do with the efforts of companies to avoid additional tariff-related costs rather than a recovery in trade.
"This unexpected boost, bucking seasonal patterns, appears driven in part by tariff-related frontloading, mode shift, and persistent uncertainty, prompting businesses to expedite shipments," said Xeneta.