Source: Heathrow Airports Limited
Heathrow Airport’s onsite express handler, CFL, has highlighted the opportunities for air cargo following the UK's recent trade deal with India.
CFL said the trade deal will bring wider benefits to the UK economy by increasing market reach for exporters and by improving access to UK markets for goods made in India.
As well as general air cargo, there are opportunities for e-commerce and clothing shipping.
Matt Rye, managing director at CFL, said: “This deal is good for businesses in both countries. India is already one of the most important import markets for the UK, so the removal of tariffs on goods like jewellery, clothing and footwear will only see that importance grow.”
In 2024, India accounted for 2.9% of all imports into the UK, making it the UK's 11th biggest import market.
Rye said: “We have seen Indian express import volumes increase by around 30% year-on-year over the last few years, and that is showing no sign of slowing down. Diwali and the pre-Christmas rush have effectively become one long period of peak demand.
“The global boom in e-commerce shipments is underpinned by a fast, reliable, and cost-effective courier service.
“We are very well-placed to meet the demands of an increase in e-commerce between the UK and India, and we have, over the past year, signed deals with airlines that serve the region."
Heathrow Airport processes almost three-quarters of all UK air cargo, with an annual value of over £200bn. Cargo in and out of Heathrow is more than the sum of all other UK airports' cargo shipments taken together.
