Swissport International has announced a commercial agreement to manage and operate the new Digital & Intelligent International Cargo Terminal at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), in partnership with Smargo, a joint venture between AVINEX Logistics and Chine Eastern Airlines Logistics.
The agreement, which marks Swissport’s first foray into the Chinese market, was officiated during a signing ceremony on 21 October and supported by both the Shanghai Airport Authority and China Eastern Airlines Corporation Limited.
Swissport recently launched cargo operations at New York’s JFK International Airport, further positioning the company as an international partner in the supply chain.
Warwick Brady, President & CEO of Swissport International, said:This milestone agreement marks Swissport's strategic entry into China with one of the world's most technologically advanced cargo facilities.
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.
PVG’s new cargo terminal, located in the West Cargo Area of the airport, is set to cover 220,000 square metres, with a core operational area of roughly 150,000 metres. The facility has been valued at around 1.56 billion CNY (approximately 215 million USD) and will handle between 600,000 and 1.2 million tonnes of international cargo per year once it becomes operational in late 2025.
With an AI-driven warehouse management system touting 99.5% scheduling accuracy, the terminal’s fully automated processes will include 94 autonomous vehicles and specialised AGVs. The facility also includes a 15,000 square metre temperature controlled area, allowing for the transport and storage of 1,500 tonnes of temperature-sensitive cargo.
A set of four-high speed automated sorting systems will process around 3,500 parcels per hour, tripling the throughout of a typical cargo terminal.
Swissport has stated it will work closely with AVINEX and China Eastern to ensure operational readiness for the new facility’s opening.
