The growing Western appetite for fast fashion and budget products from Chinese e-commerce platforms Shein and Temu has created an unexpected boom in air cargo demand, driving up freight rates and reshaping global logistics networks.
Consumer behavior shifts during the pandemic established new shopping patterns that continue to influence logistics markets. Platforms offering ultra-fast delivery from China to Western consumers within days have maintained strong demand, supporting air freight rates even as ocean shipping costs declined post-pandemic. Industry analysts note some e-commerce companies pay nearly double standard rates to guarantee capacity for their strict delivery schedules.
Market data reveals the dramatic impact of Chinese e-commerce on air cargo markets. While sea freight prices normalized after supply chain disruptions eased, air cargo rates experienced significant increases during the second half of 2023. Experts estimate e-commerce now accounts for 40-50% of air cargo volumes on major routes, with some corridors reaching 70%.
The success of platforms like Temu and Shein in attracting Western consumers with affordable fashion has uncovered previously untapped demand. Logistics executives describe this as creating unprecedented requirements for air freight capacity that traditional models couldn't anticipate. The phenomenon has been particularly noticeable in Southern China's air cargo markets, where e-commerce activity has kept rates firm despite broader economic softening.
Global cargo airlines are responding by reallocating aircraft and increasing investments in e-commerce logistics capabilities. Some Chinese manufacturers have begun chartering flights directly to meet shipping demands. This rapid growth has led to intense competition among logistics providers serving Asian export routes.
While the e-commerce boom presents opportunities, logistics companies remain cautious about geopolitical factors that could impact US-China trade relations. However, industry leaders express confidence that consumer demand for fast fashion and budget e-commerce will continue driving air cargo requirements regardless of political fluctuations.
The transformation highlights how digital commerce platforms can reshape physical logistics networks. As Chinese e-commerce giants refine their cross-border models, their influence on global air cargo patterns appears set to grow, potentially establishing new benchmarks for international e-commerce logistics performance.