Lufthansa Cargo Strengthens Partnerships in China

In an effort to further solidify their presence in China, Lufthansa Cargo has recently signed three Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with key industry players in the region. Pilotcenter.net News reported on November 6, 2024, that these agreements were made with Shanghai Airport Authorities, Air China Cargo, and China Postal Express & Logistics. This move comes as China continues its rapid growth and solidifies its position as a major player in the global economy, with significant potential for growth in the airfreight industry.

The first MoU was signed with Shanghai Airport Authorities, which manage both Pudong (PVG) and Hongqiao (SHA) airports in Shanghai. The primary goal outlined in the agreement is to develop Shanghai Pudong Airport into the leading hub in the Asia-Pacific region, aiming to enhance operational efficiencies and customer experiences. Lufthansa Cargo's CEO, Ashwin Bhat, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, "Shanghai is the biggest freight hub for Lufthansa Cargo next to our hub in Frankfurt, and the MoU gives us the confidence to further contribute to business excellence in this strategically important market."

In addition to the agreement with Shanghai Airport Authorities, Lufthansa Cargo also signed an MoU with Air China Cargo, the cargo subsidiary of Air China. This partnership aims to enhance service offerings to customers and improve the logistics corridor between China and Germany, as highlighted by Jun Li, Air China Cargo's CEO.

Furthermore, Lufthansa Cargo entered into a strategic partnership with China Postal Express & Logistics, a subsidiary of China Post, focused on joint innovation and development, improved transport offerings, increased efficiency, digitalization, global cooperation, and sustainable development.

Having started operations in China in the late 1990s, Lufthansa Cargo has steadily expanded its presence in the country, establishing various cargo flight routes in key cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Taipei. In 2024, the company introduced a new route connecting Zhengzhou and Shenzhen to Frankfurt, further solidifying its commitment to the Chinese market.