Demand for pharmaceutical air cargo between Europe and Brazil has surged significantly. LATAM Cargo reports an increase of approximately 150 percent in pharmaceutical shipments for January through July 2026 compared to the same period in the previous year.
An important driver is GLP-1-based medications. This drug class is used for diabetes and obesity, among other indications, and has gained significantly in importance worldwide.
According to the report, GLP-1 products accounted for approximately 15 percent of the total cargo volume transported by LATAM between Europe and Brazil.
Across all commodity groups, LATAM transported nearly 32,000 tonnes on this route. This represented approximately 27 percent more than in the previous year.
For freight forwarders, the cold chain is particularly critical. Many pharmaceutical products require defined temperature ranges, clean handovers, and minimal time on the apron.
Growing volumes are beneficial for air cargo but also increase pressure on temperature-controlled warehouses, cooling containers, and qualified ground handling services.