Americas

United States: Countries included in U.S. President Trump’s proposed tariff measures linked to the Greenland dispute account for nearly 60% of westbound air cargo to the U.S., totaling 685,000 metric tons between May–October, led by Germany, followed by the United Kingdom and France. Air cargo volumes from these markets have remained resilient despite earlier tariffs; though the impact of a new round effective February 1^st remains uncertain, prompting calls for a measured approach to protect supply chains.

 U.S. trucking conditions remain tighter than typical for January, with tender rejection rates near 10% indicating sustained capacity constraints and limited slack in shipper routing guides, according to recent market data. While import activity remains relatively muted and rail continues to capture a share of long-haul freight, contracting inventories and resilient consumer demand could increase urgency in shipper networks later in 2026, supporting continued tightness if volumes accelerate.

Asia-Pacific

China & Hong Kong: The Port of Shanghai maintained its position as the world’s busiest container port for the 16th consecutive year, recording its busiest year on record with more than 55 million TEU handled in 2025. The milestone was driven by growth in international transshipment activity, deep-water terminal volumes, and expanded sea-rail connectivity, reinforcing Shanghai’s role as a critical hub for global and Asia-focused supply chains.

Despite ongoing trade tensions with the U.S., cargo momentum has remained strong, with Hong Kong International Airport also reporting continued air cargo growth, including a 3.6 percent year-on-year increase in December 2025 and full-year throughput of 5.1 million metric tons, supported by export and transshipment flows.

Europe, Middle East & Africa

European airlines continued to avoid Iraqi and Iranian airspace on January 15^th despite Iran reopening its skies, opting for longer alternative routes due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The diversions are increasing flight times and operational complexity, highlighting persistent security risks that continue to disrupt aviation activity across the region.

 United Kingdom: London Gateway recorded strong container growth in 2025 and is now positioned to become the UK’s largest container port, supported by expanded berth capacity, new Asia–Europe vessel calls, and the opening of a second on-dock rail terminal. Further terminal expansions and automation investments announced in January 2026 are expected to enhance throughput, inland connectivity, and resilience for UK import and export supply chains.

Belgium: A farmers’ protest has disrupted cargo operations at Brussels Airport, with access to the Brucargo logistics zone intermittently blocked by tractors since January 15, and the action set to continue until at least Saturday, January 17, 2026. While priority medical shipments are being allowed through, the blockade has caused delays to cargo flights and trucking movements, creating congestion and potential knock-on effects for time-sensitive air freight