African air cargo surges 21% in February, Africa-Asia trade leads global growth

AFRICA – African airlines have topped global growth in February 2026, with air cargo demand rising 21% year-on-year, outpacing capacity growth of 17.3%, according to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

This marked the strongest performance among all regions, highlighting Africa’s rising role in global trade. For fresh produce exporters and food logistics investors, the surge signals expanding opportunities to move perishable goods across continents more efficiently.

Africa-Asia Corridor: A Perishable Trade Powerhouse

Across trade lanes, Africa-Asia traffic surged 61.9%, the fastest-growing corridor worldwide and the eighth consecutive month of expansion. This sustained growth reflects strong demand for Africa-linked trade, particularly in high-value perishables such as avocados, berries, citrus, flowers, and frozen seafood.

For food businesses, the Africa-Asia air cargo boom opens new pathways to markets in China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Nairobi-to-Guangzhou routes, for example, have seen increased frequency, reducing transit times for Kenyan avocados and Ethiopian flowers.

Global Context and Direct Statements

Willie Walsh, IATA Director General, said overall global demand increased 11.2% year-on-year, with international operations up 11.6%. He noted that shipments ahead of the Lunar New Year supported growth, though the outbreak of war in the Middle East toward the end of February added uncertainty.

“Rising fuel costs, fuel shortages in some regions, and disruption to key Gulf cargo hubs pose challenges,” Walsh said, adding that a stable fuel supply and early resolution of the conflict would support the sector.

Operating Environment and Regional Performance

The operating environment showed positive signals for trade. Global goods trade rose 5.2% in January, jet fuel prices increased 1.2% in February, and global manufacturing sentiment strengthened, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index at 53.1 and new export orders climbing to 51.4, its highest since July 2021.

Regionally, Middle Eastern carriers saw demand rise 16.5%, while Asia-Pacific airlines recorded a 13.6% increase. North American and European carriers posted more modest gains, with Latin American and Caribbean airlines showing the slowest growth at just 0.7%.

Outlook for Food Logistics Investors

For stakeholders in the fresh produce sector, Africa’s strengthening position as a central hub for international logistics presents clear opportunities.

Continued investment in cold chain infrastructure at key airports, including Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, and Accra, will be essential to sustain growth and ensure perishable cargo maintains quality from origin to destination.

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