Johannesburg, South Africa — Hong Kong Air Cargo (HKAC) has been steadily expanding its global network, with recent growth in Asia and Europe creating stronger indirect trade connections for African markets.
On 2 September 2025, the carrier increased its Hong Kong–Dhaka service from one to two weekly flights, while between 8 and 30 September it is operating six weekly flights on the Hong Kong–Hanoi route. These additional frequencies provide extra capacity for fast-moving goods such as electronics and textiles—products that often flow onward to African markets through re-export hubs.
Beyond Asia, HKAC has also broadened its reach across Europe and the Middle East, a move that holds even greater significance for Africa’s trade corridors. Over the past year, the airline has launched services to Milan, Birmingham, Budapest, Oslo, Liege, London Stansted, Glasgow Prestwick, and Riyadh. This expanded footprint strengthens links between Asia and Europe/Middle East distribution hubs, which in turn connect to Africa’s major gateways in Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Lagos.
With a fleet that currently includes five A330-200Fs and one converted A330-300P2F, HKAC has confirmed plans to expand to 15 freighters by 2027. This growth could create new opportunities for collaboration with African carriers and logistics providers seeking seamless integration into global supply chains.
For Africa, the significance is clear: while HKAC does not yet operate direct flights to the continent, its expanded services in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East enhance connectivity options. This means African exporters gain better access to Asian markets, while importers benefit from more efficient supply routes for electronics, textiles, and machinery.
HKAC’s growth underscores a wider trend—Africa’s rising importance in global cargo flows, shaped not only by direct routes but also by improved connections through Europe and the Middle East.
