Asian airport claims world's busiest cargo hub title for 15th time

Dhaka: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has retained its position as the world's busiest cargo airport for 2025, claiming the top spot in the global rankings for the 15th time since 2010. Full-year data released by Airports Council International (ACI) shows the airport handled around 5.07 million tonnes of cargo last year.

Vivian Cheung, chief executive officer of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), credited the achievement to the collective efforts of the air cargo community and strong government support. She highlighted the airport's continued focus on expanding capacity and capability in handling high-value cargoes, e-commerce fulfillment, and cross-boundary transshipment.

Cheung also acknowledged the intense regional competition and global economic uncertainties, saying the authority is redoubling its efforts to sharpen competitiveness and open new horizons for its cargo business.

On the infrastructure front, UPS began construction of a new hub at HKIA in March. The facility, scheduled to be completed in 2028, is expected to handle nearly one million tonnes of cargo annually.

To enhance cross-boundary transshipment efficiency, AAHK, in collaboration with Hong Kong and Guangdong authorities, jointly established the Air-Land Fresh Lane in 2025. The initiative streamlines customs procedures, enabling premium perishables received at HKIA to reach major cities in the Greater Bay Area within hours.

Meanwhile, the HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park has processed cargo valued at over RMB 57 billion since the launch of its pilot scheme. Its first phase of permanent facilities is currently under development, with annual handling capacity expected to surpass one million tonnes upon full operation.

Complementing physical and process enhancements, AAHK is spearheading the digitalization of the air cargo supply chain. Its two platforms, "HKIA Cargo Data Platform" and "HKIA Cargo Connect," facilitate partnerships through intelligent and interconnected digital ecosystems, enabling value-added services and unlocking new business opportunities.

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