Cathay lifts more cargo in July, year-on-year

CATHAY Group has reported carrying 11% more cargo in July 2025 than in July 2024 in its cargo division.

Cathay Cargo carried over 140,000 tonnes of cargo in July while available freight tonne kilometres (AFTKs) rose by 11%.

Cathay chief commercial officer Lavinia Lau noted the impact of Trumpian tariffs on air cargo trends.

“In July, we saw increased cargo tonnage compared with the same month last year, reflecting the movement of air cargo ahead of the tariff timelines,” Ms Lau said.

“Meanwhile, our capacity grew by 6% compared with the previous month, with strong demand from Southeast Asia to Hong Kong in particular, driven by machinery and perishables.”

As noted by IATA director general Willie Walsh recently, “stability and predictability are essential supports for trade”.

“Emerging clarity on US tariffs allows businesses greater confidence in planning. But we cannot overlook the fact that the ‘deals’ being struck are resulting in significantly higher tariffs on goods imported into the US,” Mr Walsh was quoted as saying.

Ms Lau, meanwhile, said demand for their Cathay Fresh solution was buoyed by the seasonal movement of cherries from the United States.

“Looking ahead, the external environment remains uncertain and we will continue to stay vigilant and agile while serving demand where it arises,” she said.

Ms Lau said July also marked the start of the traditional summer peak season for their passenger business.

Cathay Pacific Cathay Pacific carried 24% more passengers in July 2025 compared with July 2024.

HK Express HK Express carried more than 680,000 passengers in July 2025, an increase of 22% year on year.

“HK Express has continued to expand its network with the launch of new routes to Guiyang in July and Kuala Lumpur (Subang) in early August,” Ms Lau said.

“Demand for flights to Japan remained subdued in July due to earthquake rumours, and while we are gradually seeing a pickup in bookings in August, they are yet to return to normal levels.”