The air freight market in the Asia-Pacific region remains in a state of flux as it adapts to changing dynamics, particularly those emerging from developments in North America, according to Maersk. In the coming months, both demand and capacity are expected to fluctuate as businesses respond to ongoing shifts in the global logistics landscape.
Airlines are anticipated to gradually ramp up passenger flight operations through the second quarter, driven by rising travel demand ahead of the summer season. This expansion of passenger services is expected to directly affect air cargo capacity as more space in belly-hold freight becomes available.
However, overall market conditions remain unpredictable, requiring businesses to maintain flexibility and closely monitor developments to optimize logistics strategies.
Several key challenges are shaping air freight operations in the Asia-Pacific region, and these issues will likely continue influencing supply chains in the months ahead. One significant development is the removal of the Section 321 exemption for goods valued under US$800 in the United States. This change has led to considerable delays in import clearance, as the U.S. Customs now faces a surge in shipments requiring inspection.
Chinese e-commerce shippers, in particular, have been affected, with many temporarily halting shipments as they assess the new regulatory environment. The slowdown in Chinese exports is also having a ripple effect on neighboring countries in the Mekong and Northeast Asia regions, where demand previously overflowed from China.
Further complicating the situation, the U.S. has imposed additional tariffs on Chinese goods, influencing global trade flows. Countries in the Asia-Pacific are bracing for the possibility of introducing similar tariff measures on their exports while also preparing for potential shifts in manufacturing volumes as businesses seek alternatives to China.
Given the evolving nature of these market conditions, businesses will need to remain agile and adaptable in their logistics planning. Maersk is closely monitoring these developments and remains committed to providing insights and solutions to help customers navigate the challenges ahead.
