IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), recorded a 21% year-on-year increase in the volume of perishable goods transported in the first half of 2025. The growth comes as global demand for fresh produce rises, supported by the company’s investment in its perishables handling facility in Madrid, which opened in April 2024 to speed delivery to markets worldwide.
Peru has been a key growth driver, with asparagus exports in March 2025 increasing 105% year-on-year, with Spain among the main destinations. IAG Cargo said its air services help maintain speed, quality, and shelf life during off-season markets.
Rodrigo Casal, Regional Commercial Americas at IAG Cargo, said: “At IAG Cargo we understand the urgency and care fresh produce demands and work closely with our customer to meet their timeline needs. But these partnerships go beyond logistics. By keeping fresh goods moving, we’re also connecting producers with new markets, strengthening local economies, sustaining livelihoods, and creating opportunities across the supply chain.”
Carlos Aparcana, General Manager of Peruvian exporter Peak Quality, said, “With IAG Cargo we have a partner we trust. The Lima-Madrid route is essential for our supply chain, connecting us directly with our key markets in Europe. During our high season from September to December, we handle up to 30 tonnes of asparagus a day. Working with IAG Cargo gives us the reliability we need to meet global demand and tight deadlines.”
IAG Cargo operates 250 flights per week between Europe and Latin America, serving 33 destinations in the region, and 24 weekly services between the UK and West Africa. In H1 2025, it reported revenues of €629 million, up 11.1% year-on-year, with total cargo volumes increasing 4.5%.
