The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has called on the governments of the United States and Canada to resume trade negotiations, warning that continued uncertainty over bilateral trade policy could create additional challenges for businesses and supply chains across North America.
The association represents the interests of US airfreight forwarders and plays a key role in highlighting issues affecting the international air cargo industry. Its appeal comes amid heightened trade tensions between Washington and Ottawa and growing concerns over the impact of tariffs and policy uncertainty on cross-border commerce.
For the airfreight sector, prolonged uncertainty can make it harder for freight forwarders and their customers to plan shipments, manage costs and commit to longer-term supply-chain arrangements. Changes in tariffs and customs requirements can also influence sourcing decisions and the flow of goods between the two countries.
The US and Canada maintain one of the world’s most integrated trading relationships, with manufacturers and retailers on both sides of the border relying heavily on cross-border movement of components, finished goods and other supplies. Any disruption to that flow can have consequences for transportation providers, including air cargo operators and freight forwarders.
The AfA’s call reflects broader industry concerns that stable and predictable trade rules are essential for maintaining efficient supply chains. A return to negotiations could provide businesses with greater clarity over tariffs, market access and other trade-related measures.
The association’s intervention also highlights the wider role of the air cargo industry in supporting North American trade. Airfreight is particularly important for high-value, time-sensitive and temperature-controlled goods, making the sector especially sensitive to sudden changes in trade policy and border procedures.
With uncertainty continuing to weigh on US-Canada commerce, freight industry groups are urging both governments to prioritise dialogue and work towards a more predictable trading environment. Restarting formal negotiations could help reduce risks for exporters, importers and logistics providers while supporting the resilience of cross-border supply chains.