Brazil's adoption of the electronic air waybill (eAWB) has been recognised as a milestone for air cargo by IATA.
It is the first country in the Americas to waive the requirement for a physical air waybill, which in turn is a major boost to digitalization efforts in the region.
"The eAWB is a key enabler of much-needed modernization of air cargo processes and as the first adopter of eAWB in the Americas, Brazil is enhancing its competitiveness as a major air cargo player,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA Global Head of Cargo.
"The success of our work with airlines and the Brazilian authorities is an example for others in the region, and around the world, to follow.”
IATA, Avianca Cargo, LATAM Cargo, the Brazilian authorities and other stakeholders worked together on a trial program between December 2024 and January 2025 that saw 126 shipments use an eAWB at eight Brazilian airports.
The transition to eAWB brings benefits such as faster cargo processing with shortened clearance times, reduced administrative costs, increased process reliability and greater traceability and transparency.
Indeed, no shipment required a physical document, demonstrating the viability of a fully digitized logistics supply chain.
"Brazil's decision to fully adopt digital air cargo documentation is a watershed for the sector," said Sérgio Garcia da Silva Alencar, Tax Auditor and Head of Customs Operational Coordination at the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service.
"By eliminating unnecessary paperwork, we are enabling greater efficiency, reducing costs and ensuring a more sustainable future for air cargo operations."
According to the latest IATA Value of Aviation Report, Brazilian airports handled more than 1.4 million tons of cargo in 2023, making the country the 17th largest air cargo market in the world.
The progress on eAWB demonstrates that Brazil is reaffirming its commitment to a more efficient, safe and sustainable future for cargo transportation.
