Why are US imports from China declining?

US imports from China are declining due to increased tariffs and the removal of 'de minimis' exemptions, prompting importers to seek alternative sourcing markets.

Which Southeast Asian countries are benefiting from US trade shifts?

Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia are key Southeast Asian countries seeing increased air cargo exports to the U.S. as trade patterns shift.

What is the impact of trade policy on air cargo to the U.S.?

Trade policy changes, such as tariffs on Chinese goods, are driving a significant shift in air cargo routes, benefiting Southeast Asia and impacting China's export volumes.

Home / Business and Economy / SEA Air Cargo Surges as US Imports Shift from China

SEA Air Cargo Surges as US Imports Shift from China

9 Dec

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Summary

Southeast Asian air cargo to the U.S. increased over 42% in November.
Vietnam saw exports to the U.S. rise 22.5% in November.
Asia Pacific air cargo tonnages to the U.S. grew 6% despite China's decline.

SEA Air Cargo Surges as US Imports Shift from China

Air cargo volumes from Southeast Asia to the United States have seen a significant increase, with combined tonnages rising by over 42 percent in November. This surge is a clear indicator of U.S. importers diversifying their supply chains away from China, a trend driven by recent trade policy adjustments, including increased tariffs and the elimination of 'de minimis' exemptions. Vietnam, a prominent Southeast Asian trade partner, reported a 22.5 percent rise in its exports to the U.S. for November alone.

The growing demand has led to capacity constraints in several key Southeast Asian hubs. Vietnam's airline capacity to the U.S. is expected to tighten, particularly before the Christmas and New Year holidays. Similar conditions are noted in Singapore and Indonesia, where shippers are rushing to move volumes, leading to limited space and rising rates.