Air cargo e-commerce volumes between China and the US have recovered to nearly 100,000 tonnes after a sharp decline following the end of the de minimis exemption, reports London's Air Cargo News.

Consultant Marco Bloemen told the TIACA Air Cargo Forum in Abu Dhabi that volumes fell 43 per cent between May and June after the US ended duty-free entry for small packages from China. Shipments dropped from just over 100,000 tonnes to around 60,000 tonnes but have since rebounded.

Mr Bloemen said Chinese platforms are diversifying to other markets, with the US share of China's e-commerce exports falling from 25 per cent in mid-2024 to 18 per cent a year later. Europe's share rose from 22 per cent to 25 per cent, with Belgium, Hungary and the UK among the fastest-growing destinations.

Edward Burek of SmartKargo said the US market would "right-size quickly" as e-commerce adapts through partnerships and outsourcing. He noted US e-commerce continues to grow at 8 per cent annually, driven by mobile shopping.

Emirates SkyCargo executive Dennis Lister said demand from the Far East remains strong, with capacity filled across its network. He added that volumes always find alternative routes when restrictions arise.

Budapest Airport cargo director Jozsef Kossuth said e-commerce will remain a long-term growth driver despite geopolitical challenges. He noted consumption behaviour has shifted permanently toward online shopping, ensuring continued demand.