Trade Tensions Impact Asia-North America Air Cargo Traffic
Air cargo traffic between Asia and North America contracted in 2025 amid ongoing trade disputes, particularly between the U.S. and China. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the Asia-North America corridor saw a 0.8% decline in cargo ton kilometers (CTK), while Asia-Europe routes experienced a 10.3% increase. The shift in market share reflects a reallocation of trade lanes, with Asia-Europe gaining prominence. The decline in Asia-North America traffic is attributed to tariff uncertainties and policy-driven disruptions, which have led to a redistribution of cargo flows toward more resilient routes. 
