Global Aperture

Air cargo volumes from Northeast Asia to Europe surged in March, showing double-digit year-on-year growth—well above the 4% global average—driven by continued strength in e-commerce. With aircraft utilization reaching 91% by both weight and volume, current demand levels signal capacity pressure along this major trade lane.

Member states of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) are divided ahead of a key meeting beginning April 8^th to determine how to cut emissions from international shipping. Proposals include a carbon levy, favored by island nations and the UK, which could raise funds to support climate-vulnerable countries, while others like China and Brazil argue it would increase goods costs and deepen global inequality.

Americas

United States: U.S. importers are facing growing uncertainty as tariff tensions with China escalate. After the U.S. imposed a 34% tariff on Chinese goods, China responded with its own 34% tariff on U.S. imports starting April 10th. On April 7th, the White House announced an additional 50% tariff—on top of existing duties—bringing the total tariff burden on Chinese imports to at least 104% as of April 9th, leaving businesses uncertain whether to ship now or wait.

Air cargo operations at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) may face disruption due to increased volcanic activity at Mount Spurr. While the airport remains open, carriers are actively monitoring the situation and preparing contingency plans. A closure could significantly impact transpacific freight flows, as ANC is a critical stopover point where aircraft refuel and receive ground services before continuing long-haul cargo routes.

Flatbed freight demand is rising this spring, supported by seasonal construction activity and recent uncertainty around U.S. tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico. However, the market remains vulnerable to disruption due to a reduced number of carriers, after many exited during the winter,  while working to meet growing demand.

Announcement: KWE USA has renamed its established domestic trucking service to Surface Logistics US, highlighting our continued commitment to reliable freight movement across the country. This name change reflects a sharper focus on nationwide coverage and enhanced customer support. Contact your local KWE representative to learn more.

Argentina: ​Argentina's largest labor federation, the General Confederation of Labor (CGT), has announced a nationwide general strike beginning at 12:00 PM on April 9th and concluding at 12:00 AM on April 11^th, totaling 36 hours. LATAM Airlines has announced that flights to and from Argentina may face delays or cancellations as the strike is expected to involve airport ramp service workers and disrupt passenger and cargo operations across multiple airports.

Asia-Pacific

Japan: ​Golden Week in Japan is approaching, spanning from April 29 to May 6^th. This annual event significantly impacts various sectors, including shipping and cargo transport across all modes as many businesses shut down for the entire week

Sri Lanka: The Port of Colombo’s first fully automated terminal, the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT), officially began operations on April 8^th. The deep-water terminal is expected to handle 3.2 million TEUs annually, strengthening Colombo’s role as a key transshipment hub in South Asia.

Vietnam: Manufacturers in the country report canceling up to 300 containers per day in response to steep new tariffs imposed by the U.S. President. The uncertainty surrounding future shipments—particularly for May—has caused some factories to scale back operations, with several already reducing working hours amid weakening demand.

Europe, Middle East & Africa

United Kingdom: The UK government has approved a major expansion of Luton Airport (LTN), allowing it to increase annual passenger capacity from 18 million to 32 million through the construction of a new terminal. While the project primarily targets passenger growth, the expansion could also increase belly hold capacity for cargo and improve air freight connectivity in the region.

Netherlands: The Dutch government will implement a flight cap of 478,000 annual operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport starting November 2025 to reduce noise pollution. Aviation associations warn the cap could disrupt air connectivity across Europe, as it limits access to one of the region’s key transport hubs.

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