Air Cargo Trade Profiles by Member State

Exploring the Economic Value of Air Transport in International Trade

Air cargo plays a vital role in connecting economies, facilitating international trade and supporting global supply chains. While air transport accounts for a relatively small share of global merchandise trade by weight, it carries a significant proportion of high-value goods, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, precision instruments and other time-sensitive products.

The ICAO Air Cargo Trade Profiles provide a comprehensive overview of the economic significance of air freight in international merchandise trade, drawing on official trade statistics and transport data.

Through a series of country and regional profiles, this initiative examines the value and volume of goods transported by air, identifies key traded commodities and trading partners, and highlights the contribution of air connectivity to international commerce. The profiles also provide insights into the relative importance of air transport compared with other modes of transport, highlighting differences in trade value, shipment weight and commodity composition.

By integrating international trade statistics with aviation-related indicators, the profiles offer valuable insights into the relationship between air transport and economic activity, supporting evidence-based policymaking, strategic planning and the sustainable development of air cargo services.

Discover how air cargo connects markets, supports trade competitiveness and contributes to economic development.

Data Availability and Coverage

The availability of individual State profiles depends on the accessibility, completeness and comparability of official international merchandise trade statistics, particularly data disaggregated by mode of transport, commodity classification, trade value and weight. States whose profiles are currently unavailable may have limitations in the availability or level of detail of the required statistical information. Member States are encouraged to facilitate access to relevant national trade statistics and may contact ICAO for guidance and assistance in supporting the development of their Air Cargo Trade Profiles.