Brandon Fried of AfA on U.S. air cargo policy, market shifts and forwarder strategies

In this interview for the Conversations series from transport logistic & air cargo Americas in Miami, Reji John, Editor of STAT Publishing Group, speaks with Brandon Fried, Executive Director of the Airforwarders Association. Fried offers a sharp reading of the North American air cargo market and explains how forwarders are adapting to late-2025 trade tariffs and de minimis reforms. He reflects on disruptions during the recent U.S. government shutdown, capacity challenges from surging e-commerce and pharma demand, and labour shortages. The discussion highlights AfA’s technology-driven approach to geopolitical risks, the GAO’s airport infrastructure report, and policy shifts expected in 2026.