Cma Cgm Air Cargo links Urumqi with Paris and Madrid
On 27 July 2025, Cma Cgm Air Cargo launched direct cargo flights between Urumqi in China and Europe, with scheduled services to Paris and Madrid. Urumqi thus becomes the group’s fifth Chinese hub, joining Shanghai Pudong, Hong Kong, Zhengzhou and Guangzhou. The new Urumqi–Paris–Madrid route offers four weekly flights, while an additional weekly service links Urumqi directly with Paris. Operations are carried out using Airbus A330-200F aircraft, with an annual capacity exceeding 15,000 tonnes, accounting for more than one-third of the international cargo traffic at Urumqi Tianshan Airport in 2024. Cma Cgm Air Cargo currently operates six aircraft and has ordered eight Airbus A350Fs, with delivery scheduled from 2027.
WestJet Cargo expands its winter schedule
WestJet Cargo has announced the expansion of its winter 2025/2026 operations, offering new destinations and enhanced services for Canadian businesses trading with Latin America, the Caribbean and Asia. Starting this winter, five new destinations will be introduced: Panama City (Panama), Guadalajara and Tepic (Mexico), Havana (Cuba) and Managua (Nicaragua). For the first time, there will also be a regular annual winter link to Mexico City. The number of departures will increase by 3% compared to last year. Freight capacity will remain stable thanks to the reconfiguration of former Sunwing and Swoop aircraft to WestJet’s cargo standards. The carrier will serve a total of 305 routes and 62 “sun” destinations across Latin America, the Caribbean and the United States, boosting capacity by 6% in high-demand areas such as Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
Freight transport under pressure in the Eurotunnel
In the first half of 2025, Eurotunnel confirmed its EBITDA forecasts for the full year, ranging between 780 and 830 million euros. The financial results take into account the decline in performance of Eleclink, whose profitability dropped by 65 million euros compared to the first half of 2024 due to the partial suspension of the electrical interconnector and the normalisation of the energy market. On the passenger front, traffic is on the rise, with Eurostar having carried over 5.6 million people, an increase of 4.3%. However, freight transport is proving less dynamic. Eurotunnel has maintained its market share without engaging in price competition with ferry operators, who are currently facing overcapacity.
Moderate increases in German rail tolls
The German government has decided to limit the upcoming increase in railway tolls, scheduled for December, to 16% instead of the initially announced 35%. The measure concerns access to the rail network and aims to reduce the financial burden on many freight rail operators. The industry association Die Güterbahnen has cautiously welcomed the decision but is calling for a broader reform of the toll system.
New Kalmar reach stackers in Iraq
Gulftainer has received three new Kalmar reach stackers for the Iraq Container Terminal at the port of Umm Qasr. The machines, equipped with 360-degree rotating cabins for precise control, feature adjustable spreaders for handling both 20- and 40-foot containers. Powered by hydraulic systems, they offer smooth and controlled lifting operations. Their fuel-efficient engines ensure greater energy efficiency.
Reverse charge in Italian logistics
From 30 July 2025, an atypical reverse charge mechanism comes into effect for the logistics sector. With provision number 309107, the Italian Revenue Agency has approved the form and instructions for exercising the option provided for under article 1, paragraph 60, of law number 207 of 30 December 2024. The measure, supported by Assologistica, is one of the key initiatives aimed at improving transparency and competitiveness across the supply chain.
Ninety new containers for Alberti e Santi
The intermodal fleet of Alberti e Santi has been strengthened with the addition of 90 new containers, increasing operational capacity and meeting growing market demand. The new investment is intended to ensure greater availability of equipment, optimise road and rail transport routes, and reinforce the integrated logistics network. The containers, also suitable for transporting recycled materials and green waste, will contribute to more sustainable solutions in line with circular economy principles.
