The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) released its first-ever white paper dedicated entirely to e-commerce, E-Commerce: Opportunities & Challenges, offering an unprecedented global perspective on one of the fastest-growing and most transformative forces in the air cargo industry.
By the close of 2024, e-commerce accounted for approximately 20% of global air cargo volumes, with forecasts predicting these volumes could double within the next decade. This rapid growth, accelerated by COVID-driven shifts in consumer behaviour, has reshaped supply chains, created new business models, and revealed gaps in regulation, standardisation, and infrastructure.
Developed by TIACA’s multi-sector E-Commerce Task Force – comprising airlines, airports, ground handlers, technology providers, freight forwarders, and industry analysts – the white paper examines the sector’s most pressing challenges and opportunities, from safety and customs management to harmonised data standards, sustainability, and innovation.
“E-commerce is not just a new cargo product – it’s a paradigm shift in how the air logistics sector operates. This white paper provides actionable policy recommendations, industry best practices, and a collaborative roadmap to ensure that we as a global community are ready for the next phase of growth,” said Steven Polmans, Chair, TIACA.
The 16-chapter report explores critical areas, including:
- Market Outlook – current trends, future growth projections, and trade lane shifts.
- Safety & Security – addressing lithium battery risks, cyber threats, and regulatory harmonisation.
- Customs & Border Management – enabling efficient clearance while combating fraud and misdeclaration.
- Process Simplification & Data Harmonisation – creating interoperable systems to improve transparency and efficiency.
- Airline, Ground Handler & Freight Forwarder Challenges – adapting operations to smaller, higher-frequency shipments.
- Final-Mile & Reverse Logistics – integrating new technologies and sustainable practices.
- Innovation & Sustainability – leveraging AI, drones, and green technologies to meet environmental targets.
“Our industry is at a crossroads. By embracing digitalisation, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration, we can transform e-commerce air logistics into a safer, greener, and more efficient ecosystem,” added Nikolai Schaffner, Swissport co-Chair of TIACA’s E-Commerce Task Force
“This white paper is a vital step in helping our industry navigate the rapid rise of e-commerce. My thanks go to our E-Commerce Task Force for their expertise and hard work, and to our Board for prioritising this initiative. Together, we are charting a path toward safer, smarter, and more sustainable e-commerce air logistics that takes into account evolving regulations and consumer behaviour,” said Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA TIACA Director General.
Download the white paper here.
