We go into 2019 with optimism regarding some areas of positive opportunity yet other areas of concern.
First, the positive: E-commerce continues to grow at double-digit pace. Singles day, the Alibaba one-day online sales event held on Nov. 11 exceeded all previous records by processing more than 1 billion orders with a combined value exceeding US$30 billion, illustrating yet again that consumer behavior is fully embracing the convenience offered by online retail.
We also head toward 2019 with growth expectations for the special cargo area, covering pharmaceuticals, live animals, and perishable commodities. These all require special handling facilities, and we are very encouraged by the continued trend of investment in these areas.
Embracing advanced technology is another area with a positive trend, with AI, advanced automation, digital platforms, and connected partnerships being areas that will bring great service improvements and industry efficiencies.
Freighter orders were very strong during 2018 and with modern passenger aircraft providing great cargo payload capacity, we anticipate a better balance between supply and demand, which caused an issue during the fourth quarter of 2017 but less so since then.
Continued efforts addressing safety and security will be undertaken, with the industry implementing new guidelines for the transport of dangerous goods, continued outreach to ecommerce platforms to educate on safe international transport and working with postal authorities to ensure postal users are familiar with and comply with international regulations. The industry will also support various security programs around the world whereby advance cargo information is being requested.