Addis Ababa — March 12, 2026

Ethiopian Cargo & Logistics Services, Africa’s largest air cargo operator, will join the global digital freight booking platform Freightos by the end of March, marking a significant step in the airline’s digital transformation strategy and expanding online cargo booking capabilities across its global network.

The integration will allow freight forwarders worldwide to access Ethiopian Cargo’s capacity through WebCargo by Freightos, enabling digital rate searches, instant quotes, eBooking, and online payments.

The move is expected to streamline cargo operations and reduce the time required to secure shipping capacity from hours to seconds.

Expanding Digital Freight Booking

Through the integration, Ethiopian Cargo will provide digital rate management and real-time booking capabilities on the Freightos platform, allowing freight forwarders to search and reserve cargo space more efficiently.

The system will also include WebCargo Pay, Freightos’ digital payment solution designed to simplify and accelerate international freight transactions.

Freight forwarders using the platform will be able to book Ethiopian Cargo shipments to major global destinations including United States, China, India, Kenya, and South Africa, strengthening trade connections between Africa and major global markets.

The partnership will also enable interlining capabilities, allowing cargo to be transported across multiple airlines through integrated booking systems.

Strengthening Africa’s Largest Cargo Network

Ethiopian Cargo operates the largest air freight network on the African continent, serving more than 145 destinations worldwide through a combination of dedicated freighter aircraft and cargo space on passenger flights.

The airline has increasingly positioned itself as a key logistics hub connecting Africa to global trade routes.

Industry observers say the integration with Freightos could significantly improve visibility and accessibility of African cargo capacity for international freight forwarders.

According to Pablo Pinillos, Chief Financial Officer and Interim Chief Executive Officer of Freightos, the partnership responds to growing volatility in global trade.

“Global trade hasn’t only gotten more connected; it’s also become far more volatile,” Pinillos said.
“Access to speed and reliability matters more than big promises. With Ethiopian Cargo on our platform, forwarders gain practical tools to move freight when capacity, routes, and costs are constantly shifting.”

He added that the platform will help logistics companies operate with less friction and greater flexibility in managing shipments.

Digital Transformation in Air Cargo

Ethiopian Cargo officials say the partnership forms part of the airline’s broader strategy to modernize its cargo operations through digital tools.

Dereje Derero, Managing Director of Ethiopian Cargo & Logistics Services, said the airline has been steadily integrating new digital booking and payment systems to improve customer experience.

“Digital transformation is a core part of our growth strategy,” Dereje said.
“Through our partnership with Freightos, we are enhancing our cargo services by offering digital rates, quoting, and eBooking solutions with faster access and reliable service.”

He added that the initiative will strengthen Ethiopian Cargo’s position as the continent’s leading cargo carrier.

Connecting Africa to Global Trade

The partnership is expected to expand digital access to African cargo capacity at a time when global supply chains are increasingly shifting toward online booking platforms.

Freight forwarders will be able to instantly view available capacity on Ethiopian Cargo routes, improving their ability to respond quickly to shipping requests from customers.

The integration could also strengthen intra-African trade links by making it easier for freight companies to move goods between African markets and international destinations.

Ethiopian Airlines’ Global Expansion

The cargo division is part of Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa’s largest aviation groups and a member of the Star Alliance network.

The airline currently operates flights to more than 160 passenger and cargo destinations worldwide across five continents.

Its fleet includes modern aircraft such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A350, Boeing 777, and Boeing 737, supporting both passenger and cargo operations.

Under its long-term strategic roadmap, Vision 2035, Ethiopian aims to become one of the world’s top 20 aviation groups while expanding its role as a logistics and connectivity hub linking Africa with global markets.