Airfreight rates have dipped significantly in early January as shipping volumes eased following the end of the peak season, according to the latest data from industry trackers.
Data from the TAC Index, which calculates global air cargo pricing, shows that the Baltic Air Freight Index (BAI00) — a benchmark for overall airfreight costs — fell 14.1 % in the week to 5 January and was 11.4 % lower year-on-year, reflecting reduced demand after the busy end-of-year period.
Rates out of major Asian hubs like Hong Kong and Shanghai saw sharp declines as post-peak shipping slowed, with Hong Kong’s broader export rate index dropping nearly 13 % week-on-week and Shanghai’s sliding almost 20 %. Other key Asian origins, including India and Vietnam, also reported lower rates on routes to Europe and the United States.
While most lanes suffered downward pressure, some exceptions emerged: Taiwan saw rate gains supported by strong semiconductor shipments, and Bangkok-Europe routes rose modestly week-on-week.
In Europe, rate trends were mixed. Transatlantic lanes to the U.S. softened after recent gains, and prices eased on several Asian routes, while freight charges to destinations including Australia, Brazil, Mexico, India and the UAE remained more resilient.
Industry analysts say the post-holiday lull is typical as demand cools once seasonal inventories are replenished, but the slower start to 2026 may signal ongoing challenges for carriers balancing capacity with softer demand outside peak cycles.