Airforwarders Association warns air freight not yet realigned as de-minimis era ends

Oct 13, 2025

The Airforwarders Association (AfA) Executive Director, Brandon Fried, has warned that air freight networks are still adjusting to the end of de-minimis, with compliance tightening and the small-parcel model giving way to heavier, consolidated shipments.

AfA members have reported higher duties, longer cycle times, and greater complexity in returns management since de-minimis thresholds ended on August 29, Fried told delegates at the FIATA World Congress 2025 in Hanoi.

“The industry has moved overnight from light-touch clearance to full formal entry,” said Brandon Fried, Executive Director, AfA.

H.E. Mousa Al Bargi, Deputy Minister for Logistics Services, Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Professor John Kent, Supply Chain Management Department, Sam M. Walton College of Business, University of Arkansas; Brandon Fried, Executive Director, Airforwarders Association; Martin Lee, Regional Sales Manager - Africa, Asia, Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and ANZ, WiseTech Global

“We are seeing fewer parcels but larger, better-documented shipments. Fraud has dropped, but working-capital and compliance burdens have climbed sharply.

“Realignment is far from finished.”

Fried urged forwarders to consolidate smartly, invest in master data and tariff governance, and design returns solutions through Free Trade Zones or Inward Processing Relief schemes.

He said forwarders must address duty cash-flow early and strengthen visibility across purchase orders to manage the post-de-minimis environment effectively.

Over 1000 delegates from over 100 countries attended the FIATA World Congress 2025 this week to network and hear from experts on the theme of ‘Green and Resilient Logistics’.

The AfA continues to advocate globally on behalf of freight forwarders, ensuring their voice is heard on issues that shape international logistics, trade policy, and supply chain resilience.