Shanghai Pudong International Airport Cargo Terminal (PACTL) and the Ethiopian Airlines Group signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in the air cargo sector. This strategic partnership is designed to improve efficiency, expand operational capabilities, and promote mutual growth in trade between China and Africa.
According to PACTL’s official announcement, both parties have agreed to recognize each other as overseas cargo terminal partners. Together, they plan to strengthen the Air Silk Road of the 21st century, reflecting a shared vision of closer Asia-Africa trade logistics ties.
Improving cargo handling
The partnership seeks to improve cargo handling operations by focusing on the transport of high-demand goods, particularly in the e-commerce sector. By aligning supply chain processes, both upstream and downstream, the two entities aim to create a faster and more dependable logistics network.
PACTL and Ethiopian Airlines will also explore opportunities for joint investment in cargo facilities. The MoU encourages technical collaboration and knowledge exchange in several areas, including security management, operational standards, and the digital transformation of cargo services.
The partners plan to increase global awareness of the China-Africa air cargo corridor through coordinated marketing campaigns and public engagement activities. This initiative is expected to promote the route as a strategic logistics gateway between the two regions.
Aman Wole, Ethiopian Airlines’ Country Director in China, noted that this collaboration enhances the airline’s service capacity and helps address rising demand for cargo services, ultimately contributing to economic growth in both China and Africa.
Carsten Hernig, Deputy General Manager and Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Production at PACTL, expressed confidence that this alliance will inject new energy into air cargo development and support more seamless trade between the two continents.
Ethiopian Airlines, operating from its main hub in Addis Ababa, currently connects to over 142 international destinations, including 60 across Africa, positioning it as a key enabler in the regional and global cargo network.