ANN/CHINA DAILY – European aircraft manufacturer Airbus said that after the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement came into effect, the pact is expected to continuously drive the growth of international trade and fuel the demand for more freighters in the region.
Over the next two decades, global trade value is expected to double from current levels, and the Asia-Pacific region is foreseen to become the largest regional market for international trade, replacing Europe, according to global consultancy IHS Markit.
By 2041, about 630 new freighters are expected to be delivered to China, including 340 small freighters, 200 medium-sized freighters and 90 large freighters. Currently, China has some 200 freighters in operation, accounting for 10 per cent of the total globally, Airbus said.
By 2025, Airbus plans to deliver its first new-generation A350 freighter. With a flying range of up to 8,700 kilometres, the A350F can transport live animals like racehorses, perishable products like flowers, temperature-controlled goods such as vaccines and large-scale and heavy goods.
Airbus has received multiple orders, most recently from Etihad Airways in the United Arab Emirates, and is in discussions with a number of domestic and international carriers and logistics firms about its latest freighter model.
“Fuelled by the RCEP, the economic and trade growth rate in the Asia-Pacific region is predicted to significantly exceed that of other regions in the world,” said senior analyst of airline marketing at Airbus China Zhang Hanguang.
“China will undoubtedly become one of the most important markets driving the growth of the Asia-Pacific region.
“We are committed to growing our presence of freighters in China and tapping its huge market potential,” Zhang said.
