Africa Air Cargo Services Market Outlook (2022–2033)

The Africa air cargo services market size is expected to reach US$ 8,032.5 million by 2033 from US$ 5,582.0 million in 2024. The market is estimated to record a CAGR of 4.1% from 2025 to 2033.

Executive Summary and Africa Air Cargo Services Market Analysis:

The Africa air cargo services market showcases a robust and evolving logistics ecosystem, supported by advanced infrastructure, strategic geographic positioning, and a surge in cross-border e-commerce. Covering key economies such as Egypt, South Africa, Algeria, and Nigeria, each country contributes distinct capabilities, collectively enhancing regional connectivity and driving efficiency across global supply chains.

Egypt leads the region with a growing air cargo sector supported by Cairo International Airport’s modernization and expansion projects. The country’s strategic location connecting Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, combined with investments in cold chain infrastructure and customs digitization, is bolstering trade in pharmaceuticals, perishables, and manufactured goods.

South Africa serves as a major logistics hub in Africa, with OR Tambo International Airport acting as a pivotal gateway for intra-continental and international air freight. The country is investing in green logistics solutions, automation, and expanded cargo handling capacity to meet rising demand in e-commerce and industrial exports.

Algeria is expanding its air cargo infrastructure to support growing trade volumes and diversify its economy. Key airports like Houari Boumediene Airport are undergoing upgrades to improve cargo throughput, with a focus on integrating digital platforms and enhancing cold chain logistics for perishable goods.

Nigeria is rapidly growing as a regional air cargo hub with Lagos Murtala Muhammed International Airport facilitating increased express cargo services and e-commerce shipments. Government and private-sector initiatives are focused on modernizing airport facilities, streamlining customs processes, and boosting capacity for time-sensitive and high-value cargo.

Africa Air Cargo Services Market Segmentation Analysis

Key segments that contributed to the derivation of the air cargo services market analysis are type, destination and end user.

• By type, the air cargo services market is bifurcated into regular and express. The regular segment dominated the market in 2024.
• By destination, the market is bifurcated into international and domestic. The international segment held the largest share of the market in 2024.
• By end user, the market is segmented into retail, pharmaceutical/healthcare, food/beverage, consumer electronics, automotive, and others. The pharmaceutical/healthcare segment held the largest share of the market in 2024.

Africa Air Cargo Services Market Outlook

The Africa air cargo services market is among the most advanced globally, with Egypt, South Africa, Algeria, and Nigeria leading in cargo volume and technological innovation. The region benefits from a strong logistics infrastructure, increasing e-commerce activity, and continued investments in automation, digitization, and cold chain capabilities across sectors such as healthcare, retail, aerospace, and electronics.

A major factor driving market expansion is the rising demand for fast, reliable, and time-sensitive deliveries, particularly for high-value and perishable goods. Companies across the region are adopting digital freight platforms, AI-powered route optimization, and sustainable aviation technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

Additionally, government initiatives supporting trade facilitation, airport modernization, and cross-border freight integration, especially under agreements like USMCA are further strengthening the Africa air cargo ecosystem.

Africa Air Cargo Services Market Country Insights

Based on country, the Africa air cargo services market is witnessing significant contributions from key regional economies such as Egypt, South Africa, Algeria, and Nigeria. These countries are playing an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the region’s cargo logistics landscape due to their growing e-commerce activity, airport infrastructure upgrades, sustainability initiatives, and enhanced trade agreements.

Egypt serves as a major logistics hub, supported by Cairo Airport’s modernization and expanding cold chain capabilities. Demand is fueled by time-sensitive shipments in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and retail. Egypt is also investing in automation and AI-enabled freight operations to improve efficiency.

South Africa features a robust trade-oriented air cargo services sector, driven by the country’s well-developed airport infrastructure, including OR Tambo International Airport. Strategic investments in digital customs clearance and temperature-controlled supply chains are enhancing South Africa’s position as a key logistics gateway for the African continent.

Algeria is rapidly emerging as a competitive air cargo hub in the region, supported by growing manufacturing activity and increased trade with Europe and Asia. Airport infrastructure upgrades and public-private collaboration are fostering advancements in cargo handling efficiency.

Nigeria is expanding its air cargo capacity through investments in airport modernization and cold chain logistics. The country is leveraging digital freight platforms and enhanced customs processes to strengthen its role as a regional cargo corridor.

The Africa air cargo services market is expected to continue evolving rapidly driven by rising consumer expectations, trade growth, and sustainability-focused innovation. These country-level efforts are collectively reinforcing the region’s role as a global air logistics powerhouse.

Africa Air Cargo Services Market Company Profiles

ANA Cargo, Cargolux Airlines International S.A., Cathay Pacific Airways Limited, Emirates SkyCargo, Etihad Cargo, FedEx Corp, United Parcel Service Inc, Zela Aviation The Air Charter Company, Lufthansa Group, and Deutsche Post AG are among the key players operating in the market. These players adopt strategies such as expansion, product innovation, and mergers and acquisitions to stay competitive in the market and offer innovative products to their consumers.

Africa Air Cargo Services Market Research Methodology:

The following methodology has been followed for the collection and analysis of data presented in this report:

Secondary Research

The research process begins with comprehensive secondary research, utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data for each market. Commonly referenced secondary research sources include, but are not limited to:

• Company websites, annual reports, financial statements, broker analyses, and investor presentations
• Industry trade journals and other relevant publications
• Government documents, statistical databases, and market reports
• News articles, press releases, and webcasts specific to companies operating in the market

Note: All financial data included in the Company Profiles section has been standardized to US$. For companies reporting in other currencies, figures have been converted to US$ using the relevant exchange rates for the corresponding year.

Primary Research

Business Market Insights conducts a significant number of primary interviews each year with industry stakeholders and experts to validate and analyze the data and gain valuable insights. These research interviews are designed to:

• Refine findings from secondary research
• Enhance the expertise and market understanding of the analysis team
• Gain insights into market size, trends, growth patterns, competitive dynamics, and future prospects

Primary research is conducted via email interactions and telephone interviews with industry experts across various markets, categories, segments, and sub-segments in different regions. Participants typically include:

• Industry stakeholders: Vice Presidents, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers
• External experts: Valuation specialists, research analysts, and key opinion leaders with industry-specific expertise

Africa Air Cargo Services Key Sources Referred:

• The International Air Transport Association (IATA)
• The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
• World Bank – Global Trade Indicators
• World Trade Organization (WTO)
• Airports Council International (ACI)
• International Trade Administration (ITA)
• Company website
• Company annual reports
• Company investor presentations