In April 2025 alone, 17 new cargo routes were launched, increasing weekly round-trip flights by over 162. Last year, China added 168 international cargo routes, reflecting sustained growth in air logistics. Of the new routes in 2025, 35 serve Asian destinations, 31 link to Europe, six connect to North America, two reach South America, and one extends to Africa.
A notable addition is the air cargo route between Ezhou, Hubei Province, and Bangalore, India, launched on March 6, 2025, by SF Airlines. This route provides an annual transport capacity exceeding 5,000 tons, facilitating efficient trade, according to Xinhua News Agency.
Wang Yanan, chief editor of Aerospace Knowledge magazine, commented on the development: “This shows that China remains committed to opening-up and free trade, expanding trade ties with regions like Asia and Europe.” He noted that strengthening connections with countries beyond the United States supports global market integration.
The cargo transported includes cross-border e-commerce goods, fresh produce, electronics, and auto parts, meeting diverse market demands. Wang further stated: “China is working hard to enhance its integration with global markets and provide stability to international supply chains.” These efforts align with China’s broader trade objectives.
In 2024, China’s cross-border e-commerce sector grew by 10.8 percent, accounting for 6 percent of the nation’s total foreign trade, according to the Ministry of Commerce. The new air cargo routes bolster this growth, enabling faster and more reliable delivery of goods worldwide.
By expanding its air cargo network, China continues to foster economic collaboration with global partners, particularly in Asia and Europe, while addressing rising demand for efficient logistics solutions. This development underscores China’s role in supporting robust and stable international trade networks.
