India’s air cargo traffic to Iran has surged sharply in recent years, with volumes nearly doubling—rising from around 563 tonnes in 2023 to nearly 1,200 tonnes in the first nine months of 2025—highlighting a notable shift in trade dynamics between the two countries.
Industry and aviation data show that this growth reflects a broader move toward air freight for time-sensitive, high-value goods such as pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, tea, rice and other perishables, which benefit from quicker transit times compared with sea routes.
Analysts attribute the rise in air cargo traffic not only to stronger commercial ties but also to logistical challenges linked with sanctions and maritime friction, which have led exporters to favour air shipments where speed and reliability are paramount.
However, the trend comes at a complex moment: proposed punitive tariffs by the United States on countries trading with Iran could introduce new headwinds for Indian exporters and financial institutions involved in these supply chains, raising concerns about cost pressures and compliance risks.
The increased use of air freight to Iran underscores India’s efforts to diversify export routes and maintain market access even amid geopolitical and trade-policy uncertainties, reflecting the evolving landscape of international logistics and bilateral trade.