IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has reported a 21% year-on-year increase in the volume of perishable goods transported during the first half of 2025. The rise comes as demand for fresh produce continues to grow, with recent industry research highlighting a shift in European consumer behaviour.
In particular, Peru is posting record export growth. In March alone, year on year asparagus exports surged by 105%, with Spain among the top destinations. During off-season markets, air cargo becomes essential, a critical link in maintaining speed, quality and shelf freshness.
To meet this rising demand, IAG Cargo continues to invest in infrastructure that supports the efficient movement of fresh produce. The expansion of its perishables handling facility in Madrid in April 2024 has created a key hub for efficiently managing fresh produce and accelerating their journey to the consumer.
Rodrigo Casal, Regional Commercial Americas at IAG Cargo, said: “At IAG Cargo, we understand the urgency and care for fresh produce demands and work closely with our customers 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.”
From asparagus in Peru to berries in Kenya, our customers – and end consumers alike – rely on air cargo to keep fresh produce moving to land on supermarket shelves and dinner tables across the world.
Carlos Aparcana, General Manager of Peak Quality, a leading exporter in the region, explained the significance of the partnership with IAG Cargo and the importance of the Lima-Madrid route:
“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 plays a vital role in enabling trade flows between emerging markets and Europe. The business currently serves 33 destinations in Latin America, with 250 flights per week between Europe and the region, and offers capacity on 24 weekly services between the UK and West Africa.
In its H1 2025 financial results, IAG Cargo reported revenues of €629 million for H1 2025 – an increase of 11.1per cent on the same period last year. Cargo volumes increased 4.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.
