Growing air cargo trade with Iran seen impacted by Trump’s tariff

India’s air cargo movement to Iran has surged sharply, registering nearly 200% growth over the past five years, as per reports. Data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) shows that air cargo shipments from India to Iran stood at 563 tonnes in 2023, but jumped to nearly 1,200 tonnes within the first nine months of 2025 (Jan.-Sept). Major Indian exports include rice, tea, sugar, pharmaceuticals, man-made staple fibres, electrical machinery and artificial jewellery, while imports from Iran largely comprise dry fruits, organic and inorganic chemicals, and glassware. But the trade is facing fresh headwinds as US President Donald Trump’s proposal to impose a 25% tariff on countries trading with Iran threatens serious disruption, the reports said.