Aramex, a leading global logistics and transportation solutions provider, has taken a significant step towards decarbonizing logistics in the oil and gas sector, launching its first commercial deployment of electric trucks and charging solutions in the UAE.
Partnering with the UAE-based Admiral Mobility, Aramex has introduced a fleet of eight-ton Farizon electric trucks, powered by a 162kwh battery, tested and certified for operations in the UAE and KSA.
The initiative aligns with Aramex’s strategy to pioneer sustainable logistics solutions for its clients, reducing the environmental impact of industrial supply chains. The electric trucks will support Aramex’s oil and gas clients by providing efficient, eco-friendly transportation options, driving the logistics leader’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.
A special event marked the successful launch of the electric trucks, with teams from both Aramex and Admiral Mobility celebrating the milestone.
Tarek Abuyaghi, General Manager UAE, Aramex, said: “At Aramex, we are committed to reducing our negative environmental impact through innovative sustainable practices. The partnership with Admiral Mobility advances our ambitions of increasing efficiency, lowering energy consumption and material use, as well as improving our environmental footprint. We look forward to accelerating our net-zero ambitions and offering customers greener, cleaner logistics solutions.”
Graham Bremer, General Manager, Admiral Mobility, said: “We are proud to be working with Aramex and assisting them on their drive to more sustainable logistics. The deployment of these electric trucks will enable further understanding of operating commercial EV which will help Aramex on transitioning their fleet to EV. We are super excited to be on this journey with Aramex.”
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This deployment is part of Aramex’s comprehensive sustainability efforts, which include energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy investments, and sustainable packaging solutions. It complements the recent addition of e-bikes and fully electric vans to Aramex’s last-mile delivery fleet in the UAE, part of the company’s goal to convert 98% of its fleet to electric by 2030. From reducing carbon emissions through innovative last-mile delivery solutions to implementing energy-efficient technologies across its global network, the company has consistently prioritized sustainable growth.
Swiss WorldCargo, the airfreight division of SWISS, Switzerland’s leading air carrier, and Freightos Limited, a leading vendor-neutral booking and payment platform for international freight, establish a collaboration with the shared intent to enhance their customers’ digital booking experience. Various Swiss WorldCargo’s products and services for selected markets in Europe, Asia and Americas are bookable on the air cargo booking platform WebCargo by Freightos.
This collaboration connects WebCargo by Freightos’ real-time rate comparisons and eBooking with Swiss WorldCargo’s robust long-haul connectivity – spanning Asia-Pacific and the Americas – alongside strong pan-European connections. In addition, it demonstrates Swiss WorldCargo’s commitment to provide its customers with a seamless digital booking experience.
Swiss WorldCargo is recognized worldwide for its expertise in transporting high-value, care-intensive, and temperature-sensitive shipments across a vast network of over 170 destinations globally. Thanks to high-quality procedures, a reliable trucking network, trusted partnerships, and swift turnaround times in Zurich and Geneva, the premium cargo carrier offers a guarantee of efficiency and safety in its services to freight forwarders worldwide.
The partnership between Swiss WorldCargo and WebCargo aims to provide forwarders with enhanced options for care-intensive and specialized shipments like pharmaceuticals. WebCargo by Freightos, one of the leading air cargo booking platforms, connects freight forwarders with real-time rates and capacity from more than 55 airlines, as well as some 370 air cargo carriers globally.
Through its new global partnership with WebCargo, Swiss WorldCargo intends to enhance its digital presence, connecting with a wide network of forwarders globally. Swiss WorldCargo’s modular product portfolio bookable on WebCargo for selected markets in Europe, Asia and the Americas includes SWISS General Cargo and SWISS Pharma and Healthcare. These products can be paired with the Celsius Passive transportation solution for temperature-sensitive shipments and the X-Presso option for expedited transportation.
Alain Chisari, Head of Swiss WorldCargo, comments: “We take pride in delivering Swiss-quality service and reliability across every aspect of our work. This commitment extends to our digital journey, ensuring a seamless and reliable experience for our customers. Partnering with the digital platform WebCargo allows us to elevate our customers’ digital booking experience while expanding our market presence onto future-looking digital solutions”.
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Zvi Schreiber, founder and CEO of Freightos, said: “The integration of Swiss WorldCargo into WebCargo by Freightos marks another significant milestone in the Digital Air Cargo revolution. Swiss WorldCargo’s extensive network and premium service enable thousands of WebCargo freight forwarder customers to instantly book their air cargo needs, including specialized shipments like pharmaceuticals.”
About Swiss WorldCargo
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is Switzerland’s largest air carrier. With one of Europe’s most advanced and carbon-efficient aircraft fleets, SWISS is a premium airline that provides direct flights from Zurich and Geneva to keep Switzerland connected with Europe and the world. Its Swiss WorldCargo division offers an extensive range of airport-to-airport airfreight services for high-value, time-critical and care-intensive consignments. As The Airline of Switzerland, SWISS embodies its home country’s traditional values and is dedicated to delivering the highest product and service quality. The company has also committed to the ambitious climate goals of halving its 2019 net carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and making its operations entirely carbon-neutral by 2050, particularly by promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuels. SWISS is part of the Lufthansa Group and is also a member of Star Alliance, the world’s biggest airline network.
About Freightos
Freightos® (NASDAQ: CRGO) is the leading vendor-neutral global freight booking platform. Airlines, ocean carriers, thousands of freight forwarders, and well over ten thousand importers and exporters connect on Freightos, making world trade faster, more efficient and more resilient.
The Freightos platform digitizes the trillion dollar international freight industry, supported by a suite of software solutions that span pricing, quoting, booking, shipment management, and payments for global businesses of all shapes and sizes. Products include the Freightos Marketplace, WebCargo, WebCargo for Airlines, 7LFreight by WebCargo, Shipsta by Freightos, and Clearit.
Freightos is a leading provider of real-time industry data via Freightos Terminal, which includes the world’s leading spot pricing indexes, Freightos Air Index (FAX) for air cargo and Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) for container shipping.
In recent months, the landscape of global trade has been marked by significant changes, driven by rising tariffs, evolving supply chain strategies, and geopolitical influences.
The US Department of Commerce has reported a spike in penalties for import and export violations, with fines set to increase soon. This includes breaches related to seafood, wildlife, and the 2018 Export Controls Act. Hugo Pakula, CEO of Tru Identity, emphasized the importance of compliance, stating, “It has never been more important to stay ahead of non-compliance – and it has never been more costly [not to comply].”
Meanwhile, Mexico has announced increased tariffs on apparel imports, impacting companies leveraging nearshoring strategies. Ryan Martin, president of ITS Logistics, noted, “The increased tariffs and cessation of duty-free imports puts apparel brands in a scramble to find alternative fulfillment solutions.”
In the US, incoming President Donald Trump plans to impose new tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China, potentially affecting trade dynamics. John Manners-Bell, founder of Transport Intelligence, highlighted the potential impact on China’s Belt & Road Initiative, stating, “President Trump’s tariff policy may provide additional momentum to the project as a result of Chinese manufacturers off-shoring production to neighboring countries.”
The air cargo industry is also experiencing shifts, with TIACA’s Director-General, Glyn Hughes, noting that increased tariffs could boost air cargo demand. However, he warned of capacity constraints, especially with potential strike action by the International Longshoremen’s Association. “I don’t think the air cargo sector has the capacity to move more than a microscopic percentage of the ocean freight affected by the strike,” Hughes commented.
As global trade continues to evolve, companies are urged to adapt their strategies to navigate these complex challenges and seize new opportunities.
NAV AERO Global Cargo GSSA Network has expanded its airline portfolio by partnering with two renowned carriers, LOT Air Cargo and Oman Air Cargo. This development underscores the network’s commitment to delivering exceptional service and enhancing global connectivity for its clients.
LOT Air Cargo Joins NAV AERO
LOT Polish Airlines, one of the world’s longest-established airlines, has been transporting cargo and mail since 1929. The Cargo and Mail Bureau, founded in 1995, operates regional offices in Kraków, Wrocław, and Poznań, alongside international offices in New York, Chicago, and Beijing, supported by a global agent network.
With one of the youngest and most advanced fleets, LOT connects Warsaw to destinations across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Australia. Its services include Road Feeder Service (RFS) for goods unsuitable for air transport. Certified under ISO 9001:2015, LOT Cargo is dedicated to high-quality, reliable logistics, strengthening its role in the Central and Eastern European market.
Oman Air Cargo Partnership
Oman Air Cargo, established in 2009, is a leading Middle Eastern air cargo carrier known for high standards and exceptional customer service. It offers tailored freight solutions for pharmaceuticals, fresh produce, valuables, and dangerous goods, with express connections through its state-of-the-art Muscat hub.
Using the advanced SmartKargo system, Oman Air Cargo provides seamless shipment handling with reliable, real-time updates. Supported by a fleet of 9 Boeing 787s, 10 Airbus A330s, 33 Boeing 737s, and 4 Embraer 175s, it is committed to safety, quality, and customer satisfaction, setting a benchmark in air cargo transportation.
Enhanced Global Capabilities
These collaborations allow NAV AERO Global Cargo GSSA Network to offer increased flight options, improved scheduling, and customized logistical solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients. NAV AERO’s continued growth underscores its commitment to providing seamless and reliable cargo services on a global scale.
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“Adding these airlines to our network marks an important milestone, enhancing connectivity, reliability, and efficiency for our clients,” said Ralph van Eijk, Head of GSSA Network and Airline Development at NAV AERO. “This expansion strengthens our global capabilities and regional presence, allowing us to better serve diverse client needs and drive growth in the cargo industry.”
About NAV AERO
NAV is a global network of leading and independent cargo GSSAs, airline brokers, and solutions providers, committed to delivering innovative cargo services to the aviation and logistics community. NAV is powered by Neutral Air Partner (NAP), the premier ecosystem of leading air cargo architects and aviation logistics specialists dedicated to providing innovative cargo solutions to the global air cargo supply chain.
InterGlobe Air Transport Limited has been appointed as the exclusive General Sales Agent (GSA) for Oman Air across India. This strategic partnership aims to enhance Oman Air’s presence and customer service in the Indian market by leveraging InterGlobe Air Transport’s extensive network and expertise.
Oman Air, known for its exceptional service across the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, Asia, and Europe, operates over 90 weekly flights to 10 Indian cities from its hub in Muscat. InterGlobe Air Transport will provide comprehensive sales and service support, including airline management, sales and marketing, reservations and ticketing, and contact center operations.
“India is a key market for Oman Air, and we are excited to strengthen our presence and enhance our offerings for Indian travelers through this strategic partnership with InterGlobe Air Transport,” said Sunil V A, Regional Vice President – ISC, Commercial Sales, Oman Air. “By leveraging their extensive network and expertise, we will significantly strengthen our presence in India, providing seamless connections, world-class service, and a truly unforgettable travel experience.”
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Siddhanta Sharma, President & CEO of InterGlobe Air Transport, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to announce our exclusive partnership with Oman Air as their GSA in India. This collaboration underscores our dedication to delivering a superior travel experience. By offering seamless connectivity and exceptional service, we aim to elevate the travel journey for our customers and contribute significantly to Oman Air’s growth and success in the Indian market.”
InterGlobe Air Transport, a leading airline and travel management company, represents several prominent travel brands in India and has been operating since 1989. Oman Air, founded in 1993, has grown into a major international carrier, recognized for its luxurious fleet and signature Omani hospitality.
Cathay Cargo has announced the appointment of Siddhant Iyer as its new Head of Cargo Global Partnerships. Iyer, who has over 15 years of experience with the company, will focus on strengthening and expanding the airline’s global partnerships. His extensive regional expertise is expected to enhance relationships with key stakeholders worldwide.
Iyer began his career with Cathay Cargo in Bengaluru, India, as Area Services Manager and has since held various roles, gaining a deep understanding of the air cargo sector. He succeeds Chris Bowden, who will transition to a new role as Group General Manager of Safety & Quality at Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO) in March 2025.
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Cathay Cargo expressed its gratitude to Bowden for his contributions, stating, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Chris and wish him every success in his new position at HAECO. With Siddhant succeeding him, we are excited for the future of Cathay Cargo and the continued growth of our global partnerships.”
Iyer’s appointment marks a significant step for Cathay Cargo as it continues to enhance its position in the global air cargo market. “Siddhant’s wealth of experience in the region shall prove invaluable in building further on the relationships with our global partners,” the company added.
DHL Express has significantly bolstered its aviation network and ground facilities across the Asia Pacific region over the past year. The company reported a 6% increase in shipments between Asia Pacific and the rest of the world in the first three quarters of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, underscoring the region’s growing role in global trade.
Ken Lee, CEO for Asia Pacific, DHL Express, stated, “Asia Pacific markets are facing significant growth boosted by diversification of global supply chains, structural tailwinds, and e-commerce. Thanks to our forward planning, we are well-positioned to respond to these shifts in demand with the timely and strategic enhancements we have made across the region.”
Southeast Asia’s Rising Trade Demand
Southeast Asia is emerging as a key player in global trade, attracting international traders with its skilled workforce and trade agreements. DHL Express has expanded several facilities in the region, including upgrading the South Asia Hub near Changi Airport, Singapore. The hub, part of DHL’s multi-hub strategy, now features enhanced X-ray screening and material handling systems, increasing scanning and sorting capacities by 30% and 40%, respectively.
The hub is supported by five DHL-owned Boeing 777 freighters operated by Singapore Airlines, offering over 1,200 tons of additional payload capacity and reducing carbon emissions by 18% compared to older models.
In October 2024, DHL Express opened an advanced gateway in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with a EUR60 million investment. The facility spans over 13,000 square meters and features a fully automated sorting system, supporting Malaysia’s prominence in electronics manufacturing.
Peter Bardens, Senior Vice President for Network Operations & Aviation – Asia Pacific, DHL Express, said, “We take a proactive approach to continuously adapt our network and enhance our service quality. Our robust international network will help connect customers to global markets and drive new growth opportunities in the region.”
Strengthening Oceania’s Connectivity
DHL Express has enhanced connectivity in Oceania with a dedicated flight route between Sydney and Hong Kong, offering next-day delivery to several Asia-Pacific countries. The company also opened new ground facilities in Adelaide and Newcastle, Australia, improving transit times and providing direct air freight access.
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In New Zealand, DHL Express will open a new gateway in Christchurch, marking its largest investment in the country. The facility will be DHL Express’s first 100% carbon-neutral site in New Zealand, featuring a line sorter conveyor system to process up to 6,500 parcels per hour.
Scaling Capacity in North, East, and South Asia
DHL Express inaugurated the Hong Kong West Service Center, enhancing the region’s connectivity with a facility capable of handling over 50,000 shipments daily. In early 2024, DHL Express and Japan Airlines expanded their air network, connecting Japan, Seoul, Shanghai, and Taipei.
In India, DHL Express opened its first automatic shipment sorting hub in New Delhi, supporting the country’s growing export market. According to the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker, India is among the countries with the largest increases in its share of world trade.
These strategic enhancements position DHL Express to support its customers during peak seasons and cater to the evolving demands of global trade.
Kuehne+Nagel has been chosen to manage Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions Asia Pacific’s new Central Logistics Center in Thailand. Located in the Si Racha free zone near Schaeffler’s manufacturing plant in Chonburi, this 3,000sqm facility will handle key operations like kitting, goods receiving, and shipping, all aimed at optimizing logistics and improving delivery efficiency for Schaeffler’s customers across the Asia Pacific region.
Micah Shepard, President of Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions Asia Pacific, states: “This Central Logistics Center will serve as a key supply hub for the Asia Pacific region. With Kuehne+Nagel as our experienced and reliable logistics partner, our goal is to improve the accessibility and efficiency of spare parts distribution by increasing our focus on innovation, progress, and customer orientation.”
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“Our long-term partnership with Schaeffler has grown over the years thanks to our shared commitment and collaborative spirit. Together, we have achieved remarkable progress and will continue to build on this solid foundation, embracing the opportunities ahead,” says David Roussiere, Managing Director of Kuehne+Nagel Thailand, Cambodia and Myanmar.
As part of its Roadmap 2026, Kuehne+Nagel identifies Asia as a key growth area, with Thailand playing an important role. The company stays connected to its customers by investing locally and building even stronger partnerships, ensuring they meet their evolving needs. A recent example is the new distribution centre in the Suvarnabhumi Airport free trade zone in Bangkok, Thailand.
Khalifa Port has reached a major milestone with the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly facility that boosts container capacity by 23% to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Combining advanced technology and sustainability, the new terminal enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a global trade hub and supports the UAE’s green economy goals.
This AED 3.1 billion (USD 845 million) container terminal is managed through a joint venture, with CMA CGM Group’s subsidiary CMA Terminals holding a 70% stake and Abu Dhabi Ports owning the remaining 30%.
His Highness was also present for the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Rodolphe Saadé and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi. This agreement focuses on advancing maritime training and education across the UAE and the GCC region. As part of the partnership, the CMA CGM Group will help train students from the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and assist with placing cadets on its flagship vessels.
The inauguration of CMA Terminals is a significant milestone for Khalifa Port, the flagship port of AD Ports Group. Since its opening in December 2012, this world-class container, roll-on/roll-off, and multipurpose facility has grown rapidly, transforming into one of the fastest-growing and most efficient commercial ports in the world.
The newly unveiled CMA Terminals showcases cutting-edge infrastructure designed with sustainability and efficiency in mind. It features automated gates, integrated systems, and shore-power capabilities that reduce vessel emissions. Solar panels power several areas, and the terminal is home to the region’s first net-zero carbon administration building, running entirely on renewable energy. This building earned the prestigious “Net Zero Building Project of the Year Award” at the 2022 MENA Green Building Awards.
The addition of the CMA CGM terminal boosts port’s container capacity by 23%, bringing the total to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Ready for rail connectivity, this new terminal further solidifies port’s position as a major regional gateway. Designed with sustainability at its core, it supports the UAE’s circular economy goals by promoting construction recycling and reducing operational waste.
CMA Terminals serves as a modern, sustainably designed hub for CMA CGM to facilitate growing trade between Asia, Africa, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. CMA CGM, a global leader in decarbonizing the shipping industry, aims to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050, and this terminal aligns perfectly with their mission.
The facility combines advanced technology with sustainability. It is equipped with eight state-of-the-art Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 20 Electric Rubber Tyred Gantry (e-RTG) cranes, further enhancing port’s status as one of the world’s most advanced commercial ports and a key driver of sustainable trade.
At the inauguration, His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, expressed pride in welcoming His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, noting the terminal’s role in cementing the UAE’s reputation as a top investment destination and a key partner for global trade.
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Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, highlighted the terminal’s strategic significance, calling it a step forward for Khalifa Port and a boost to regional shipping and logistics. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the port’s enhanced global connectivity and contribution to local economic diversification.
The inauguration also marks the completion of Phase 1 of the CMA CGM terminal project, featuring an 800-meter quay wall, 18.5 meters of depth, and a capacity of 1.8 million TEUs. With these advancements, Khalifa Port now spans 6.3 square kilometers, with 41 quay cranes, 159 yard cranes, an 11.7-kilometer quay wall, and a 3.8-kilometer breakwater.
This new chapter firmly establishes Khalifa Port as a regional leader in trade, innovation, and sustainability, driving forward the UAE’s vision for economic growth and global connectivity.
Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced that its Cessna SkyCourier, a twin-engine, large-utility turboprop, has received type certification from Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA). This certification expands the aircraft’s operational capabilities in remote regions of North America.
“The SkyCourier’s outstanding performance will be a game-changer for our customers across Canada,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of Global Sales and Flight Operations. “The maximum flexibility and low operating costs of this aircraft make it an excellent choice for a wide range of missions throughout the region.”
The first SkyCourier in Canada, a freighter variant, is set to be delivered this year to Air Bravo Corporation, a flight service company based in Ontario. The SkyCourier, available in freighter, passenger, and combi configurations, is designed for air freight, commuter, and special missions. It features a flat-floor cabin, a large cargo door, and single-point pressure refueling. Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC engines, it offers a maximum cruise speed of over 200 ktas and a 900 nautical-mile range.