AfA: Air Freight Industry Scrambles to Restructure After the End of the 'De Minimis' Era

Speaking to delegates at the FIATA World Congress 2025 in Hanoi, Brandon Fried said that AfA members have reported higher tariffs, longer cycle times, and increased complexity in managing returns since the de minimis threshold ended on August 29.

"The industry has moved overnight from light-touch clearance to full formal entry," said Fried.

"We are seeing fewer parcels but larger, better-documented shipments. Fraud has dropped, but working-capital and compliance burdens have climbed sharply."

“Realignment is far from finished.”

Fried urged freight forwarders to consolidate intelligently, invest in master data and tariff governance, and design solutions for returns utilizing Free Trade Zones or temporary import bond mechanisms.

He stated that forwarders must address the cash flow implications of tariff payments early and enhance visibility across entire purchase orders to effectively manage the post-de minimis environment.

Over 1,000 delegates from more than 100 countries attended the FIATA World Congress 2025 this week to network and hear from experts on the theme of "Green and Resilient Logistics".

The AfA continues its global advocacy on behalf of forwarders, ensuring their voice is heard on issues shaping international logistics, trade policy, and supply chain resilience.

The AirCargo Conference, co-hosted by the AfA, will take place in Orlando, Florida, in February 2026, bringing together airlines, airports, forwarders, and regulators to discuss the next phase of industry modernization and collaboration.

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Source: Phaata.com (According to Air Cargo Week)

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