Royal Air Maroc Cargo is making bold strides in global air freight, launching a new direct cargo route between Casablanca (CMN) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). With three weekly flights starting January 20, this expansion strengthens Morocco’s role as a strategic logistics hub, connecting China, Africa, and even South America.
The Boeing 787-9 service will add 30 tons of weekly cargo capacity each way, meeting rising trade demands between China and Morocco. Operating on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from Casablanca, and returning on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, the new flights promise shorter transit times, enhanced cargo tracking, and greater reliability for global shippers.
Strengthening Global Trade Links
“For centuries, Morocco has served as a gateway for trade between Africa and Europe,” said Yassine Berrada, VP Cargo at Royal Air Maroc. “Now, with our direct link to Beijing, we are taking it a step further, creating a seamless air bridge between Asia, Africa, and the Americas.”
One of the route’s major advantages is its connection to Royal Air Maroc’s recently launched service to São Paulo (GRU), forming a pioneering trade corridor between China, Morocco, and Brazil. This direct access is expected to boost exports from all three regions, enhancing economic cooperation and supply chain efficiency.
A Booming Cargo Market
With China’s growing interest in African exports, the new service caters to high-demand goods such as electronic components, mineral resources, textiles, agricultural products, and manufactured goods. Meanwhile, Moroccan inbound flights will carry Chinese electronics, machinery, furniture, and consumer products, many of which will continue their journey to South America via Casablanca.
To support cargo operations in China, Royal Air Maroc has partnered with Globe Air Cargo China, a subsidiary of ECS Group. The firm will handle freight logistics, leveraging advanced digital tools for capacity optimization, e-booking, and revenue management to maximize efficiency.
A Vision for the Future
Royal Air Maroc previously operated flights to Beijing before the pandemic, and this relaunch is part of a broader expansion strategy. Shanghai and Guangzhou are among the next potential destinations as demand continues to grow.
“Our decision to return to China was a natural step given the strong trade links,” Berrada noted. “We are excited about what the future holds as we continue to strengthen Morocco’s position in global logistics.”
Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, echoed the enthusiasm, emphasizing the significance of this new route: “By combining Royal Air Maroc’s vision with our digital expertise, we are ensuring efficient and sustainable air freight solutions that will drive economic growth across multiple continents.”
With Morocco emerging as a key cargo hub, this new Beijing route marks a major milestone in global trade, paving the way for even stronger economic ties between China, Africa, and beyond.
