As we head into May, the forwarding industry finds itself navigating some turbulent economic and regulatory currents, and your Airforwarders Association is working diligently to represent and support your interests at every turn.
I’m honored to deliver welcoming remarks at this year’s CNS Partnership Conference in Miami. Hundreds of our members and industry partners will gather to connect with airline representatives, discuss current issues, and build the relationships that keep this community strong. One key topic of conversation will be the mounting impact of proposed trade tariffs coming out of Washington.
The economic signals are concerning.
Ocean container bookings from China to the U.S. are down 60%, and ocean carriers have canceled 25% of scheduled sailings in just two weeks. The ripple effect on air cargo is severe—Cathay Pacific and others are bracing for decreased demand, especially with the new de minimis rule eliminating the $800 duty exemption for low-value e-commerce shipments. Our members are already reporting inventory shortages, rate volatility, and frustrated customers awaiting clarity on policy.
In April, we hosted informative webinars on sales techniques and the evolving role of AI in freight forwarding. On May 22, our Technology Committee— led by Amanda Barlow (Rock-it Cargo) and Charles Marrale (ExFreight)—will present Navigating Tariff Solutions in the Supply Chain: Tools and Strategies for Success. Be sure to join us.
We also need your help identifying regulatory priorities. The Regulatory Compliance Committee, led by Bob Imbriani (Team Worldwide) and Tom Paciello (Kuehne + Nagel), has launched a focused initiative to advocate for TSA regulatory reforms. As the agency undergoes a leadership transition, we have a unique opportunity to push for relief from burdensome rules. Please watch our upcoming survey to consider the proposed reforms you want to see on our agenda.
I’m also grateful for the efforts of our Membership Committee, led by Aaron Ambrite (AIT), and our stellar Communications Team—Ann Crampton, Ally Norat, Jamie Gair (Meantime Communications), and Position : Global, led by Scott Case—for keeping members informed and engaged.
Thank you for being part of the AfA. Your involvement drives our success and ensures the voice of the airfreight forwarder community is heard where it matters most.
Brandon Fried
Executive Director
Airforwarders Association