Freight markets across the Asia-Pacific region are experiencing tightening capacity on both air and ocean cargo routes as the Lunar New Year holiday approaches, according to the latest Asia-Pacific Freight Report from logistics firm Dimerco Express Group.
The report highlights that pre-holiday shipping activity is causing carriers to focus on moving goods early, resulting in constrained space and potential rate increases on some routes. Although overall demand to the United States and Europe appears cautious, with only a modest seasonal uplift expected, intra-Asia markets are seeing tighter air cargo capacity due to the rush to ship before factories temporarily shut down for the festivities.
In Northeast Asia, strong tech and high-value shipments are putting pressure on available air freight capacity, particularly on routes to Southeast Asian hubs like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Airlines have already announced some rate increases on regional services to manage demand.
The situation is mirrored in Southeast Asia, where elevated export activity has tightened both air and ocean freight space, especially on US-bound lanes, while major ports such as Port Klang in Malaysia are experiencing congestion.
In contrast, the Indian freight market has seen some easing of air cargo demand following the post-peak season slowdown, as carriers adjust schedules and improved weather conditions reduce disruptions. However, longer transit times due to regional airspace constraints could still affect space availability on certain long-haul routes.
Dimerco’s analysis suggests that the pre-Lunar New Year peak creates a narrow planning window for shippers, with volatility likely once factories halt operations and shipping activity slows sharply.
Logistics professionals are advised to plan ahead and secure capacity where possible, as the combination of holiday-driven front-loading and structural supply constraints may continue to influence market conditions beyond the festive period.