Company said expansion of Madrid perishables centre is supporting exporters and opening up new global trade opportunities
IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has reported a 21 per cent year-on-year increase in the volume of perishable goods transported during the first half of 2025. The rise comes as demand for fresh produce continues to grow, with recent industry research highlighting a shift in European consumer behaviour.
Peru, in particular, saw record export growth. In March alone, year on year asparagus exports surged by 105 per cent, with Spain among the top destinations.
“During off-season markets, air cargo becomes essential, a critical link in maintaining speed, quality and shelf freshness,” IAG said. “To meet this rising demand, we continue to invest in infrastructure that supports the efficient movement of fresh produce.”
In April 2024, the company completed the expansion of its perishables handling facility in Madrid.
Rodrigo Casal, regional commercial Americas at IAG Cargo, said: “At IAG Cargo we understand the urgency and care fresh produce demands and work closely with our customer to meet their timeline needs.
“But these partnerships go beyond logistics. By keeping fresh goods moving, we’re also connecting producers with new markets, strengthening local economies, sustaining livelihoods, and creating opportunities across the supply chain.”
Highlighting the significance of its partnership with IAG Cargo, Carlos Aparcana, general manager of Peruvian exporter Peak Quality, said: “With IAG Cargo we have a partner we trust. The Lima-Madrid route is essential for our supply chain, connecting us directly with our key markets in Europe.
“During our high season from September to December, we handle up to 30 tonnes of asparagus a day. Working with IAG Cargo gives us the reliability we need to meet global demand and tight deadlines.”
IAG Cargo currently serves 33 destinations in Latin America, with 250 flights per week between Europe and the region, and offers capacity on 24 weekly services between the UK and West Africa.
In its H1 2025 financial results, IAG Cargo reported revenues of €629mn – an increase of 11.1 per cent on the same period last year. Cargo volumes increased 4.5 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.
