As part of the study commissioned by IATA to quantify the relationship between air cargo connectivity and participation in global trade, two air cargo specific indices – the Air Trade Facilitation Index (ATFI) and eFreight Friendliness Index (EFFI) – were developed to assess effectiveness of smart border regulation, customs services and logistics chain. This report also examines the challenges and opportunities of integrating into Global Value Chains across six case studies of specific sectors in six countries. The findings in this report can serve as evidence in support of policy deliberations on improving the trade facilitation environment and helping countries integrate into Global Value Chains. It highlights that countries with well-developed air cargo connections combined with good quality customs services and smart borders, are better at integrating into Global Value Chains.