Hong Kong International Airport advances digital trade finance with new cargo data initiatives

Credit: Hong Kong International Airport

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) participated in the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s (HKMA) Data Summit 2025, discussing advancements in the digital trade finance ecosystem through the use of digitalised cargo data at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

As a member of HKMA’s Expert Panel on Project Cargo, AAHK has been working to enhance digital trade finance by leveraging air cargo data from its HKIA Cargo Data Platform. Launched in 2021, the blockchain-enabled platform connects freight forwarders, airlines, and cargo terminal operators, enabling seamless information exchange and efficient workflows.

With user consent, logistics data collected through the platform can be shared with financial institutions, giving them deeper insights into clients’ operations and business performance. This improved visibility streamlines trade finance processes and facilitates the provision of financing services. The initiative is particularly valuable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the logistics and trading sectors, providing timely financial support that drives growth and competitiveness.

Fred Lam, Chairman of Airport Authority Hong Kong, stated, “Hong Kong International Airport is the world’s number one cargo airport, a position we have held 14th times since 2010. To further enhance our competitiveness, we must continue to leverage the power of technology, and digitalisation of the air cargo supply chain is one of the key steps to achieve greater efficiency and enable value-added services. Leveraging our cargo data on the HKIA Cargo Data Platform and in collaboration with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s Commercial Data Interchange, we are able to facilitate SMEs’ financing process and enhance credit risk management. We welcome continuous development in this area and anticipate further opportunities for collaboration with HKMA and other business partners to develop Hong Kong into an international cross-border the region’s leading e-commerce fulfilment centre.”

Building on its leadership in air cargo digitalisation, AAHK launched HKIA Cargo Connect this year, the world’s first airport-led initiative designed to facilitate airline partnerships through an intelligent, interconnected digital ecosystem. HKIA Cargo Connect offers airlines enhanced visibility of flight schedules, aircraft types, terminal connection times, and operational requirements. This innovation addresses long-standing communication challenges in partnership building, fostering business opportunities and reinforcing HKIA’s position as a preferred global air cargo hub while reshaping the international air cargo landscape.

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