Americas
According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, estimated North American transborder freight totaled $127.8 billion in September 2025, a 6.2% year-on-year decline, with U.S.–Canada trade down 2.3% and U.S.–Mexico trade down 9.7%. Truck, rail, pipeline, and vessel movements all recorded decreases, while air freight inched up 0.14% based on preliminary estimates derived from four-year averages.
United States: The Federal Aviation Administration ended mandatory domestic flight reductions at 40 major airports on November 17th, citing improved staffing conditions following the end of the federal government shutdown. Airlines largely maintained normal operations throughout the restrictions, and cancellation rates have already returned to typical levels.
U.S. freight imports from Asia continued to weaken through the third quarter and into October 2025. New Census Bureau data released on November 19th showed an $18.4 billion drop in August imports after additional tariffs took effect. The Port of Long Beach reported a 16% decline in Chinese imports, and October truckload volumes across van, flatbed, and refrigerated segments fell both month-over-month and year-over-year as shippers relied on inventories pulled forward earlier in 2025.
Asia-Pacific
China: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) recorded a 1.9% increase in cargo volume in the first half of 2025, contributing to 7.8% of growth over the last 12 months. As the world’s busiest cargo airport, HKIA has expanded its capacity through the new Three-Runway System, which will eventually support up to 10 million tons of cargo annually.
The Hainan Free Trade Port will launch island-wide special customs operations on December 18th, introducing a new two-tier customs system. Under this model, overseas goods can enter the island through the “first line” with zero tariffs and simplified clearance procedures. Standard customs controls will apply at the “second line” between Hainan and mainland China, which is expected to reduce costs for supply chains using Hainan as an entry point into China.
Thailand: The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines reported strong industry performance at its Bangkok assembly, with air cargo demand increasing 7% in the first nine months of 2025. Airline leaders expect this growth to continue into 2026, supported by resilient regional economies and expanding connectivity.
Vietnam: Heavy rainfall of more than 1,500 millimeters over three days has caused severe flooding across central Vietnam, pushing river levels higher. Da Nang port remains operational despite the severe weather. The storms have already disrupted key coastal areas and are expected to last through November 23rd.
Europe, Middle East & Africa
European Union: The Council and Parliament reached a provisional agreement to harmonize and modernize how rail capacity is planned and allocated across member states. The framework introduces long-term scheduling, digitalized capacity management, and stronger cross-border coordination through the European Network of Infrastructure Managers. The new rules aim to simplify slot planning for both passenger and freight services.
Belgium: Brussels Airport (BRU) will cancel all departing flights on November 26th due to a nationwide strike, as security and handling staff join the final day of a three-day industrial action called by Belgian unions. The airport noted that arriving flights may also face delays. Despite the upcoming disruption, BRU reported strong cargo performance in October, with volumes rising 25% year over year to 80,638 tons.
Italy: Unions across Italy have called a nationwide strike for November 28th that is expected to disrupt freight operations at ports, warehouses, highways, rail networks, and air cargo facilities. Coordinated walkouts at major gateways such as Genoa, Trieste, Livorno, and Civitavecchia, will likely slow handling times. These disruptions are expected to delay transport activity across the country.
