Emerging economies in Southeast Asia are investing in air cargo infrastructure. In the coming years, cross-border e-commerce, rising demand for high-value and time-sensitive goods and integration of digital platforms will be key drivers, says Yukki Nugrahawan Hanafi, FIATA Region Asia-Pacific Chair.
CT Bureau
What are cargo growth opportunities in Asia-Pacific in the next two to three years?
The APAC region continues to serve as a manufacturing and e-commerce powerhouse this offers growth opportunities. In the next two to three years, increased cross-border e-commerce, rising demand for high-value and time-sensitive goods and integration of digital platforms will be key drivers. Emerging economies in Southeast Asia are investing in cargo infra, opening new trade lanes and regional gateways.
Are airports and logistics hubs in APAC keeping pace with demand for capacity and handling?
Hubs, such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Incheon, are advancing rapidly with digitalisation, automation, robotics and expansion of handling facilities. Many secondary airports face challenges in scaling capacity, modernising systems and ensuring 24×7 ops.
What bottlenecks that need to be resolved, and how can PPPs help address them?
The pressing flaws include limited cold chain facilities, inadequate handling infrastructure at secondary airports and inconsistent air cargo security processes. PPPs can play a vital role in accelerating investments, ensuring operational expertise and aligning infra projects with industry needs. They can support development of specialised cargo zones, innovation hubs and multimodal connectivity.
Can APAC improve cross-border efficiency through customs and security protocols?
Harmonisation of customs and adoption of global standards are must to enhance cross-border cargo efficiency. While digital processes are in place, the region is still in transition; many areas continue to rely on documentation. Full digitalisation and reliability of customs are thus critical. The authorities must be able to communicate with one another to avoid need for manual submissions that can result in forwarders coughing up penalties. Implementation of digital customs platforms, pre-clearance systems and mutual recognition of AEO programmes can reduce delays. FIATA is promoting the modernisation of the global air cargo programme, which governs the relationship between forwarders and airlines and is advocating harmonisation of cargo procedures across APAC.
What are your priorities as FIATA Member for APAC and how would you help in this regard?
My priority is to fortify regional collaboration and position forwarders as partners in cargo development. I aim to ensure their voices are heard as we work toward APAC’s resilient ecosystem. This includes capacity building through FIATA training projects, enhancing digital readiness among members, and creating opportunity through PPP dialogue.
