Swissport International has secured a landmark commercial agreement to manage and jointly operate the new Digital & Intelligent International Cargo Terminal at Shanghai Pudong International Airport in partnership with Smargo, a joint venture between AVINEX Logistics and China Eastern Airlines Logistics. This strategic entry into China marks Swissport's flagship operation in Asia and a cornerstone of the company's global air cargo strategy.
The signing ceremony for this agreement took place on October 21, supported by Shanghai Airport Authority and China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited. With operations at nearly 300 airports across 45 countries and handling 5 million tons of cargo annually across 117 cargo stations worldwide, Swissport brings unparalleled global connectivity and operational experience to this important air cargo gateway.
"This milestone agreement marks Swissport's strategic entry into China with one of the world's most technologically advanced cargo facilities," says Warwick Brady, President & CEO of Swissport International. "By connecting Shanghai with our global network, we'll enable Chinese exporters to reach international markets up to two days faster through our specialized e-commerce handling. Working with our partners AVINEX Logistics and China Eastern Airlines Logistics, we're creating efficient trade pathways that will transform how Chinese businesses connect globally. Shanghai represents just the beginning of our long-term commitment to China's aviation future."
Brad Moore, CEO APAC at Swissport International, said: “Our new facility at Shanghai Pudong is a cornerstone of Swissport’s cargo strategy in Asia and reflects our long-term commitment to this dynamic market. By bringing our global expertise in specialized cargo handling to one of Asia’s most important air freight hubs, we are creating new efficiencies that strengthen the regional supply chain. This flagship operation not only enhances our presence in China but also serves as a vital connection point for trade across the entire Asia-Pacific region. The partnership fully supports our strategy to build premium cargo operations at key Asia gateways, where we can deliver the greatest value to our airline partners and their customers.”
The new terminal comes at a strategic time as Shanghai Pudong Airport continues to strengthen its position as a global air cargo hub, currently handling approximately 4 million tons annually with projected growth of 8-10% per year. This partnership will create seamless connections between China and key international markets, opening new opportunities for Chinese businesses to reach global customers faster and more reliably. Simultaneously, the facility will serve as a vital gateway bringing international goods into the vast Chinese market, creating a true bidirectional trade corridor that connects China with key world hubs and the world with China. This agreement complements Swissport's recent cargo operations launch at New York's JFK International Airport. Together, these initiatives form a strategic network linking key cargo centers across Asia, North America, and Europe, positioning Shanghai Pudong as a critical nexus in global supply chains flowing both to and from Chinese markets.
This landmark agreement reinforces Swissport's commitment to strategic growth in the Asia Pacific region while supporting China's position as a global aviation hub. Following the Shanghai operation, Swissport plans to
evaluate additional Chinese cargo market opportunities to create a comprehensive network of specialized cargo operations across China's major commercial centers.
