Following the Christmas holidays, some Asian export trade lanes experienced a period of robust growth in air freight. This strong momentum, however, has now decelerated, signaling a shift in market conditions.
Industry forwarders and analysts consequently anticipate a period of muted demand over the next two weeks. They largely attribute this expected slowdown to solid air freight demand observed throughout January, which they project will significantly temper the usual rush associated with the Lunar New Year period.
Post-Holiday Air Freight Surge Concludes
The immediate aftermath of the Christmas holidays brought a notable surge for specific Asian export trade routes. These lanes witnessed robust expansion in air freight volumes, reflecting heightened shipping requirements. This intense period of growth, however, has since concluded, with activity returning to more moderate levels.
Anticipating a Muted Lunar New Year Rush
Market observers, including freight forwarders and seasoned analysts, project a calmer outlook for air cargo demand. They foresee a significant reduction in shipping activity over the upcoming fortnight. This assessment stands in contrast to historical trends, which often feature a pronounced pre-Lunar New Year rush.
Asian air freight's post-Christmas growth has decelerated, with muted demand expected over the next two weeks, especially pre-Lunar New Year. This is due to strong, sustained January demand absorbing much of the usual rush, leading to a calmer period than typical.
January’s Sustained Demand Alters Outlook
A key factor driving this revised expectation is the consistent and robust air freight demand experienced throughout January. This steady activity has effectively absorbed much of the cargo volume that traditionally peaks just before the Lunar New Year. Consequently, the sector anticipates a more subdued and less frantic period than typical.
The air freight market now navigates a transition from its post-holiday peak. As the Lunar New Year approaches, the sector prepares for a more stable and less volatile demand environment, a direct result of strong and sustained activity earlier in the year.