Photo: Swissport Swissport International has officially entered the Chinese market with the launch of operations at the new Digital & Intelligent International Cargo Terminal at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, also referred to as the Smart Cargo Hub.
Photo: SwissportThe facility, developed through a partnership between Swissport, Smarex, China Eastern Airlines Logistics, and Shanghai Airport, combines automation, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies to create a seamless end-to-end cargo handling system.
Photo: Swissport"Launching operations at Shanghai Pudong International Airport is a defining moment for Swissport in Asia and globally," said Warwick Brady, CEO and President of Swissport International.
"As Swissport marks 30 years of operations this year, our network continues to expand, including here in China. We are pioneering the future of intelligent, high-tech and sustainable air cargo operations by combining our global reach and proven operational expertise with cutting-edge AI-enabled infrastructure and Smarex’s advanced capabilities in one of the world’s most dynamic logistics markets.
Photo: SwissportThis partnership positions Swissport at the forefront of the cross-border e-commerce revolution, connecting Chinese businesses with consumers worldwide through our network of key cargo hubs, while setting new standards for smart cargo handling that will benefit both Chinese exports and imports, as well as our global customers.”
Brad Moore, CEO of Swissport in the APAC region: “Shanghai Pudong International Airport already handles around four million tonnes of freight each year. Now, plugged into our global network, we expect volumes to grow by around 8% to 10% over the coming years as connectivity and efficiency improve across key trade corridors."
Spanning 144,000 square meters, the hub features high-speed automated sorting systems, advanced cold-chain facilities, and AI-enabled cargo operations designed to support China's rapidly growing cross-border e-commerce sector.
Through Swissport's global network of 312 airports, the facility will connect Shanghai directly with major cargo hubs across Europe, North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific.