Ports

LATAM Cargo Reports Surge in Pharma Shipments as Global Market Remains Flat

LATAM Cargo has seen pharmaceutical air cargo shipments between Europe and Brazil surge 150% in the first seven months of 2026, driven by growing demand for GLP-1-based diabetes medications. The carrier moved nearly 32,000 tonnes on the corridor, up 27% year-on-year, with GLP-1 drugs representing roughly 15% of total Europe-Brazil volume. Jorge Carretero, cargo sales manager Europe at LATAM Airlines Group, noted the growth demonstrates rising demand for specialized logistics solutions between the markets. However, the regional strength contrasts sharply with the broader pharmaceutical air freight sector. Industry consultants report that pharma air freight volumes remained broadly flat in early 2026, with shifting trade patterns rather than genuine expansion. Some GLP-1 shipments originally routed from Denmark are now moving via ocean freight, reflecting expanded supply chains and increased modal competition as the market matures beyond initial demand waves.