The Airforwarders Association (AfA) has welcomed the recent trade agreement between the United States and India, highlighting the reduction of tariffs as a key development for global trade and supply chain resilience. The association said that lower tariffs will facilitate smoother trade flows between two of the world’s largest economies, reduce costs for businesses and consumers, and create a more predictable environment for forwarders, shippers, and airlines.
“Any move that lowers tariffs and reduces friction is good news for trade, jobs, and helping to ease cost-of-living pressures,” said Brandon Fried, executive director of the AfA.
Air Cargo: Critical Link Between US and India
The AfA emphasised the central role of air cargo in supporting high-value, time-sensitive trade between the US and India. By improving predictability and lowering barriers, the trade deal is expected to enhance the efficiency of freight forwarding operations and support growth in key sectors reliant on rapid logistics, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, and e-commerce.
“Forwarders can adapt to change, but constant uncertainty helps no one,” Fried added. “Consistent, transparent trade policy is essential for maintaining resilient supply chains.”
Advocating for Stable Trade Policies
The association also reiterated its call for a stable, long-term policy environment. Shifting tariffs and unpredictable trade measures have historically made it difficult for forwarders and their customers to plan operations, invest in infrastructure, and price services effectively.
The AfA said it will continue engaging with policymakers to advocate for trade policies that support growth, competitiveness, and strategic planning across the air cargo sector.
Tariffs were a recurring concern for global supply chains last year. In Q4 2025, US airfreight forwarders warned that proposed tariffs on imports from Canada could drive up supply chain costs. Earlier this month, the US and Canada agreed to a 30-day pause on additional tariffs, providing temporary relief for North American logistics networks.
