Khalifa Port Strengthens Position as Global Trade Hub with New CMA Terminals
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has officially opened the CMA Terminals Khalifa Port.
Khalifa Port has reached a major milestone with the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly facility that boosts container capacity by 23% to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Combining advanced technology and sustainability, the new terminal enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a global trade hub and supports the UAE’s green economy goals.
This AED 3.1 billion (USD 845 million) container terminal is managed through a joint venture, with CMA CGM Group’s subsidiary CMA Terminals holding a 70% stake and Abu Dhabi Ports owning the remaining 30%.
His Highness was also present for the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Rodolphe Saadé and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi. This agreement focuses on advancing maritime training and education across the UAE and the GCC region. As part of the partnership, the CMA CGM Group will help train students from the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and assist with placing cadets on its flagship vessels.
The inauguration of CMA Terminals is a significant milestone for Khalifa Port, the flagship port of AD Ports Group. Since its opening in December 2012, this world-class container, roll-on/roll-off, and multipurpose facility has grown rapidly, transforming into one of the fastest-growing and most efficient commercial ports in the world.
The newly unveiled CMA Terminals showcases cutting-edge infrastructure designed with sustainability and efficiency in mind. It features automated gates, integrated systems, and shore-power capabilities that reduce vessel emissions. Solar panels power several areas, and the terminal is home to the region’s first net-zero carbon administration building, running entirely on renewable energy. This building earned the prestigious “Net Zero Building Project of the Year Award” at the 2022 MENA Green Building Awards.
The addition of the CMA CGM terminal boosts port’s container capacity by 23%, bringing the total to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Ready for rail connectivity, this new terminal further solidifies port’s position as a major regional gateway. Designed with sustainability at its core, it supports the UAE’s circular economy goals by promoting construction recycling and reducing operational waste.
CMA Terminals serves as a modern, sustainably designed hub for CMA CGM to facilitate growing trade between Asia, Africa, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. CMA CGM, a global leader in decarbonizing the shipping industry, aims to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050, and this terminal aligns perfectly with their mission.
The facility combines advanced technology with sustainability. It is equipped with eight state-of-the-art Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 20 Electric Rubber Tyred Gantry (e-RTG) cranes, further enhancing port’s status as one of the world’s most advanced commercial ports and a key driver of sustainable trade.
At the inauguration, His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, expressed pride in welcoming His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, noting the terminal’s role in cementing the UAE’s reputation as a top investment destination and a key partner for global trade.
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, highlighted the terminal’s strategic significance, calling it a step forward for Khalifa Port and a boost to regional shipping and logistics. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the port’s enhanced global connectivity and contribution to local economic diversification.
The inauguration also marks the completion of Phase 1 of the CMA CGM terminal project, featuring an 800-meter quay wall, 18.5 meters of depth, and a capacity of 1.8 million TEUs. With these advancements, Khalifa Port now spans 6.3 square kilometers, with 41 quay cranes, 159-yard cranes, an 11.7-kilometer quay wall, and a 3.8-kilometer breakwater.
This new chapter firmly establishes Khalifa Port as a regional leader in trade, innovation, and sustainability, driving forward the UAE’s vision for economic growth and global connectivity.
DHL Express Enhances Asia Pacific Network and Facilities
DHL Express has significantly bolstered its aviation network and ground facilities across the Asia Pacific region over the past year. The company reported a 6% increase in shipments between Asia Pacific and the rest of the world in the first three quarters of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, underscoring the region’s growing role in global trade.
Ken Lee, CEO for Asia Pacific, DHL Express, stated, “Asia Pacific markets are facing significant growth boosted by diversification of global supply chains, structural tailwinds, and e-commerce. Thanks to our forward planning, we are well-positioned to respond to these shifts in demand with the timely and strategic enhancements we have made across the region.”
Southeast Asia’s Rising Trade Demand
Southeast Asia is emerging as a key player in global trade, attracting international traders with its skilled workforce and trade agreements. DHL Express has expanded several facilities in the region, including upgrading the South Asia Hub near Changi Airport, Singapore. The hub, part of DHL’s multi-hub strategy, now features enhanced X-ray screening and material handling systems, increasing scanning and sorting capacities by 30% and 40%, respectively.
The hub is supported by five DHL-owned Boeing 777 freighters operated by Singapore Airlines, offering over 1,200 tons of additional payload capacity and reducing carbon emissions by 18% compared to older models.
In October 2024, DHL Express opened an advanced gateway in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with a EUR60 million investment. The facility spans over 13,000 square meters and features a fully automated sorting system, supporting Malaysia’s prominence in electronics manufacturing.
Peter Bardens, Senior Vice President for Network Operations & Aviation – Asia Pacific, DHL Express, said, “We take a proactive approach to continuously adapt our network and enhance our service quality. Our robust international network will help connect customers to global markets and drive new growth opportunities in the region.”
Strengthening Oceania’s Connectivity
DHL Express has enhanced connectivity in Oceania with a dedicated flight route between Sydney and Hong Kong, offering next-day delivery to several Asia-Pacific countries. The company also opened new ground facilities in Adelaide and Newcastle, Australia, improving transit times and providing direct air freight access.
In New Zealand, DHL Express will open a new gateway in Christchurch, marking its largest investment in the country. The facility will be DHL Express’s first 100% carbon-neutral site in New Zealand, featuring a line sorter conveyor system to process up to 6,500 parcels per hour.
Scaling Capacity in North, East, and South Asia
DHL Express inaugurated the Hong Kong West Service Center, enhancing the region’s connectivity with a facility capable of handling over 50,000 shipments daily. In early 2024, DHL Express and Japan Airlines expanded their air network, connecting Japan, Seoul, Shanghai, and Taipei.
In India, DHL Express opened its first automatic shipment sorting hub in New Delhi, supporting the country’s growing export market. According to the DHL Global Connectedness Tracker, India is among the countries with the largest increases in its share of world trade.
These strategic enhancements position DHL Express to support its customers during peak seasons and cater to the evolving demands of global trade.
Aramex Teams with Admiral Mobility to Deploy its First Electric Trucks
Aramex has introduced a fleet of eight-ton Farizon electric trucks, tested and certified for operations in the UAE and KSA. The electric trucks will drive Aramex’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.
Aramex, a leading global logistics and transportation solutions provider, has taken a significant step towards decarbonizing logistics in the oil and gas sector, launching its first commercial deployment of electric trucks and charging solutions in the UAE.
Partnering with the UAE-based Admiral Mobility, Aramex has introduced a fleet of eight-ton Farizon electric trucks, powered by a 162kwh battery, tested and certified for operations in the UAE and KSA.
The initiative aligns with Aramex’s strategy to pioneer sustainable logistics solutions for its clients, reducing the environmental impact of industrial supply chains. The electric trucks will support Aramex’s oil and gas clients by providing efficient, eco-friendly transportation options, driving the logistics leader’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.
A special event marked the successful launch of the electric trucks, with teams from both Aramex and Admiral Mobility celebrating the milestone.
Tarek Abuyaghi, General Manager UAE, Aramex, said: “At Aramex, we are committed to reducing our negative environmental impact through innovative sustainable practices. The partnership with Admiral Mobility advances our ambitions of increasing efficiency, lowering energy consumption and material use, as well as improving our environmental footprint. We look forward to accelerating our net-zero ambitions and offering customers greener, cleaner logistics solutions.”
Graham Bremer, General Manager, Admiral Mobility, said: “We are proud to be working with Aramex and assisting them on their drive to more sustainable logistics. The deployment of these electric trucks will enable further understanding of operating commercial EV which will help Aramex on transitioning their fleet to EV. We are super excited to be on this journey with Aramex.”
This deployment is part of Aramex’s comprehensive sustainability efforts, which include energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy investments, and sustainable packaging solutions. It complements the recent addition of e-bikes and fully electric vans to Aramex’s last-mile delivery fleet in the UAE, part of the company’s goal to convert 98% of its fleet to electric by 2030. From reducing carbon emissions through innovative last-mile delivery solutions to implementing energy-efficient technologies across its global network, the company has consistently prioritized sustainable growth.
FedEx to Spin Off FedEx Freight, Creating Two Public Companies
FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) announced plans to separate FedEx Freight into a new publicly traded company, aiming to unlock significant value for stockholders. The separation is expected to be completed within 18 months in a tax-efficient manner.
“This is the right time to pursue a separation as we respond to the unique dynamics of the LTL market,” said Raj Subramaniam, FedEx Corp. president and CEO. “This announcement is a testament to the strength of the business our team has built.”
The move will allow FedEx and FedEx Freight to focus on their respective growth strategies while maintaining operational synergies. “Building upon that powerful foundation, the FedEx Corporation Board is confident that a separation of FedEx Freight will drive continued growth and value creation,” said R. Brad Martin, vice chairman of the Board.
The separation will enable each company to have enhanced operational focus, distinct investment profiles, and strong balance sheets. Both companies will continue to benefit from commercial collaboration and shared branding under the FedEx name.
FedEx Freight, with $9.4 billion in revenue in fiscal 2024, is the largest LTL carrier in the industry. The company plans to maintain its leadership position with a strong balance sheet post-separation.
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC is serving as the financial advisor, and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP is serving as legal counsel for the transaction.
Shipex NV Joins Pharma.Aero
Shipex NV, the international freight forwarder with over four decades of expertise in global ocean container transport, has officially joined Pharma.Aero as a full member. Headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium, Shipex NV brings a wealth of experience and specialized services to the global collaboration platform dedicated to improving pharmaceutical logistics.
Founded in 1982, Shipex has established a strong reputation for providing tailored logistics solutions across a range of industries, including frozen foods, seeds, plants, and—most recently—pharma, healthcare, and medical devices. In 2023, the company expanded its focus to address the unique challenges of transporting temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical shipments.
With a dedicated team of 60 skilled professionals, Shipex combines ISO 9001:2015 and EU-GDP certifications with cutting-edge IT innovations to ensure quality, safety, and real-time solutions.
Shipex NV, a leading freight forwarder based in Antwerp, Belgium, is proud to join Pharma.Aero as a Full Member. With our expertise in temperature-controlled ocean reefer shipments and GDP-compliant practices, we are well-positioned to contribute significantly to multimodal projects. These include initiatives focused on shipping pharma by ocean, Air-to-Ocean (A2O) conversion, and promoting sustainability by reducing CO2 emissions through ocean transport. Additionally, our advanced IT innovations streamline processes and provide real-time solutions, offering added value to the pharmaceutical logistics chain.
We are confident that our collaboration with Pharma.Aero will enhance Shipex’s reputation within the pharma and healthcare industry as we continue to expand our presence in this vital sector.
Frank Duysters, Pharma Business Development Manager, Shipex N.V.
As a global, cross-industry collaboration platform, Pharma.Aero brings together pharmaceutical manufacturers, and certified logistics providers to collaborate and tackle specific challenges or innovative trends in end-to-end supply chains, aiming to enhance the quality and efficiency of healthcare logistics worldwide.
Founded in 2016, as an organization focused on improving pharma handling and quality in the air cargo industry worldwide, Pharma.Aero made a strategic move towards a multimodal approach in 2024. This landmark decision showcases a collective vision for a more comprehensive and efficient logistics strategy within the industry. The shift signifies a notable broadening of focus, unlocking doors to heightened collaboration and innovative opportunities in the sector.
Emtelle Opens $50M Innovation Hub in KEZAD
Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi – KEZAD Group, the largest operator of integrated and purpose-built economic zones and Emtelle, a leading global manufacturer of fibre-optic and microduct solutions have announced the opening of Emtelle’s new $50M global innovation and manufacturing facility in KEZAD Area A (KEZAD Al Ma’mourah).
The state-of-the-art 48,000 square metre facility marks a significant milestone in Emtelle’s expansion within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, further strengthening the company’s commitment to providing high-performance telecom infrastructure solutions to the global market.
Located strategically in KEZAD, the facility is a Build-to-Suit solution developed by KEZAD specifically for Emtelle, which will enable the company to serve the increasing demand for high-speed internet and telecom infrastructure in the region and around the world. This advanced hub will produce a full range of passive telecommunication network solutions, including microduct tube bundles and award-winning pre-connectorised fibre solutions, ensuring faster delivery, increased production capacity, and streamlined service to customers across the MENA region.
The facility will also play a pivotal role in supporting the UAE’s growing telecom infrastructure needs as the country continues its ambitious digital transformation. This investment aligns with Emtelle’s vision to lead the way in providing innovative and sustainable telecom solutions that are critical to the development of smart cities and connected communities.
Designed with scalability and sustainability at its core, the facility will utilise energy-efficient technologies and resource management systems to ensure minimal environmental impact. Emtelle is also focused on fostering local talent, with the new establishment expected to generate numerous employment opportunities for skilled workers in Abu Dhabi.
Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO, Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group said: “Emtelle’s new facility is a welcome addition to our thriving ecosystems for advanced manufacturing. It reinforces KEZAD’s growing appeal as an international hub for business, and puts Abu Dhabi on the global industrial development map. It also highlights industry 4.0 initiatives in KEZAD, transforming manufacturing for enhanced productivity and efficiency.
“High-speed and efficient telecom infrastructure solutions are vital to address the evolving needs of a digitally connected world. With the increased demand for faster, more reliable and scalable services, Emtelle’s new plant in KEZAD will meet market demands effectively. We wish Emtelle continued success and remain committed to supporting their growth.”
Tony Rodgers, CEO of Emtelle Group said: “This new facility in Abu Dhabi is a key part of our long-term strategy to increase capacity and efficiency in one of our fastest-growing markets. By manufacturing at the KEZAD Hub, we are not only reducing lead times but also reinforcing our commitment to meeting the demands of our regional customers. KEZAD’s strategic location and excellent logistics infrastructure have been instrumental in making this possible.”
With the new hub now operational, Emtelle is well-positioned to deliver its world-class fibre-optic and microduct solutions across the MENA region, helping to drive forward the region’s telecommunications capabilities.
Lödige Industries is the World Market Leader 2025 for Air Cargo Terminals
Lödige Industries has solidified its position as the world’s leading provider of air cargo terminal technology.
The internationally active company, headquartered in Warburg and Paderborn, has once again been included in the list of world market leaders from Germany, published annually by the renowned German business magazine WirtschaftsWoche . Lödige Industries’ machines and IT solutions enable efficient, secure, and reliable transport and storage processes at many of the world’s largest air cargo hubs, ensuring that time-sensitive goods in air cargo reach their destination swiftly and safely.
From New York to Sydney and Hong Kong to Amsterdam, Lödige technology ensures smooth ground operations at key global air cargo logistics hubs. This includes the new mega airport in Istanbul, one of the largest projects ever realized by Lödige Industries. Completed in 2022, the massive terminal for Turkish Cargo spans approximately 300,000 square meters, equipped with automated high-bay warehouses with 17,000 storage spaces, 30 stacker cranes, 15 lifts, and an integrated warehouse management system. Lödige designed a solution meeting the highest quality standards and maximizing efficiency. With the support of the Lödige Customer Care Center and an expert team onsite, the systems are continuously monitored to ensure roundtheclock functionality.
The company’s facilities move a total of 28 million tons of air cargo annually. Lödige Industries designs, delivers, and maintains a wide range of advanced transport and storage solutions, efficiently moving air cargo containers within terminals, thanks to a high degree of automation and innovations, like driverless transport systems.
“We have been active in this market for decades and are very proud to be able to win customers around the world with our pioneering technology,” said Philippe De Backer, CEO of Lödige Industries, celebrating the award. The air cargo industry is subject to many fluctuations, which require flexible systems capable of performing even during peak times. “Automation solutions for air cargo terminals are increasingly in demand to improve the efficiency of facilities worldwide. Tremendous value is handled here, so the reliability of the systems is of utmost importance. That’s why we’re the top choice worldwide, from planning through implementation to maintenance,” added De Backer.
The world market leader list is compiled annually by Prof. Dr. Christoph Müller, Titular Professor at the University of St. Gallen. To be included, a company must rank first or second worldwide in at least one relevant market segment by revenue. Other criteria include annual revenue of at least 50 million euros, with at least 50% of that revenue generated abroad and on three continents. Ownership must also be at least partly based in Germany. With a revenue of 240 million euros (2024) and an export share of over 80%, Lödige Industries holds the leading position in air cargo terminals.
Additionally, the company is a leading provider of automated parking systems, lift solutions, and material flow systems.
DHL Highlights Road Freight’s Rising Role in Southeast Asia Supply Chains
DHL Global Forwarding (DHL), the freight specialist arm of DHL Group, said that road freight will continue to play an important and increased role in Southeast Asia, as companies look to build more resilient supply chains. In a new white paper titled “Highway to the Future: Navigating the Road Freight Opportunities in Southeast Asia”, DHL outlines the role of road freight as a single or in a multimodal solution, as businesses look to more agility and flexibility in transportation modes for their shipments.
“Over the last few years, we have seen strong export growth in Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. Vietnam is Southeast Asia’s largest exporter currently, while Malaysia has strengthened its position as a semiconductor hub. Thailand has made great strides in automobility, particularly in the electric vehicles (EV) sector.
The new DHL International Multimodal Hub at Suvarnabhumi Airport Free Zone 3 will also see Thailand emerge as a regional trade hub. The simplified process will allow goods to be shipped through multiple transport modes, making the country even more attractive for companies looking to expand or move part of their production into Southeast Asia.
While our last whitepaper focused on the emerging use of road freight during the pandemic, our new whitepaper highlights why it remains important even as we see air and ocean freight normalize globally,” said Thomas Tieber, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding Southeast Asia and South Pacific.
Countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore are set to benefit, especially with their connectivity options, as trade can happen through either road, air, or ocean. These countries also have favorable trade agreements with major economies globally.
Digitalization and improved infrastructure to drive road freight forward
The growing importance of building a resilient supply chain has called for greater agility and transparency with real-time visibility and insights into shipment statuses and road conditions, amidst concerns about security, safety, and stability. Southeast Asia’s advanced cellular networks have enabled real-time monitoring of road freight via sensors and GPS units, providing customers with accurate predictions of cargo location and arrival times[1].
While global companies are diversifying their supply chain, Chinese companies are also expanding their manufacturing base into the region. In 2023, China’s investment into Southeast Asia reached US$24 billion, according to a report by McKinsey. These investments highlight the region’s growing importance as a global manufacturing hub, especially with markets such as Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam.
These countries have announced or implemented improvements or expansions of transportation infrastructure that are vital for logistics. For example, in 2021, Laos opened a new railway linking Vientiane to Kunming in China. Thailand has also opened the new DHL International Multimodal Hub, making it easier for shipments to move in, out, and through Thailand across different transportation modes.
“These investments into making rail or road infrastructure better in Southeast Asia means that it is often cheaper and faster than air to ship from China into Southeast Asia. Road freight plays an important role in a multimodal solution. Moving goods through a combination of transport modes can result in faster Door-to-Door (DTD) lead time compared to ocean freight, with substantially lower cost than air freight,” said Bruno Selmoni, VP, Head of Road Freight and Multimodal Solutions, Southeast Asia, DHL Global Forwarding.
Government policies help to streamline cross-border freight
Government initiatives in the Southeast Asia region have provided opportunities to streamline shipments across borders. Countries within the region are also attempting to resolve border issues, collaborate on improving infrastructure, and streamline procedures.
Initiatives like ASEAN’s Customs Transit System, ACTS, aim to streamline the processes and reduce paperwork further. The Customs Administrations of all ten ASEAN Member States collectively endorsed the ASEAN Authorized Economic Operator Mutual Recognition Arrangement (AAMRA) in 2023. This agreement establishes a consistent and transparent trading environment within the member states. AAMRA aligns certification standards with the World Customs Organization (WCO) SAFE Framework, ensuring expedited cargo clearance and priority treatment for certified AEOs within ASEAN.
Other than regional agreements, countries in the region have also taken steps independently to facilitate the cross-border movement of goods. Cambodia and Vietnam, for example, have worked together to add lanes to one congested checkpoint.
Growing shift to sustainable road freight in Asia
In a report by International Data Corporation, it is said that 45% of Asian-based organizations will operationalize integrated sustainability in the supply chain by 2026. Freight transportation, including trucks, planes, ships, and trains, contributes approximately 8% of global greenhouse emissions.
A push towards a more sustainable road freight is needed but significant challenges lie ahead. The ASEAN Regional Strategy for Sustainable Land Transport highlighted three categories of green freight policies and measures:
Logistics optimization, such as reducing empty hauling, or implementing logistics centers and freight exchanges
Use of multimodal such as rail or waterways
Greening of trucks either by improving efficiency, low rolling-resistance tires, or alternative fuels
However, achieving this requires aligned efforts from shippers, vehicle manufacturers and government roadmaps.
“A sustainable road freight solution has its challenges but many opportunities, especially when it comes to greening of trucks. We are seeing more electric trucks made available, biofuels used in DHL’s fleet in Europe, and upcoming technology like hydrogen fuel being tested. Of course, any solutions will need a comprehensive partnership between the private and public sectors. Governments need to set the appropriate policies and infrastructure, automotive manufacturers need to give viable commercial options, and logistics players like us need to adopt these solutions,” explains Selmoni.
For instance, DHL Global Forwarding recently introduced a fleet of electric vehicles in Bangkok, Thailand that is set to eliminate 85,000 kilograms of CO2 emissions yearly. These initial vehicles will cover a monthly distance exceeding 28,000 kilometers in operation and deliver approximately 1,000 tons of shipments to our customers.
“The discussion on road freight is now shifting away from its relevance and cost, but to other challenges on infrastructure and policies which will smoothen the road ahead. Yet at the same time, many of our customers recognize road freight as a key component of their multimodal strategy. This is why it is essential for logistics firms, including DHL, to adapt and anticipate regional trends proactively. This requires an accurate understanding of our customers’ specific business landscape. When we align our solutions to the unique shifts brought about by regional dynamics, we help shape the future of logistics in Asia,” added Tieber.
New 23,000-Sqm Logistics Facility to Rise in Dubai South
Dubai South, the largest single-urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics and real estate, and INDU Kishore Logistics, broke ground on a new facility that will be built at Dubai South’s Logistics District.
This development marks a significant milestone in the company’s expansion plan, supporting its ambition to evolve into a multi-industry logistics leader.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by AbdulBasit AlMarzouqi, Deputy CEO of the Logistics District, Dubai South and Kishore Lakhani, Chairman INDU Group, in the presence of senior executives from both entities.
The facility, spanning approximately 23,000 square meters and a storage capacity of 75,000 pallets, is scheduled for completion by Q3 2025.
Designed to handle spare parts of all sizes, it will leverage data-driven automation to streamline processes, enabling rapid turnaround times and ensuring an efficient, optimised flow of shipments.
In his comments, Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District, Dubai South, said: “We are pleased to witness the groundbreaking of INDU Kishore Logistics’ new facility, which will be of added value to the logistics sector and our portfolio of leading logistics companies. At Dubai South, our mandate is to support the government’s vision of positioning Dubai as a leading global logistics hub. We are committed to fully supporting INDU Kishore Logistics in its expansion endeavors, and we look forward to the successful completion of this facility.”
Kush Lakhani, Managing Partner at INDU Kishore Logistics, said: “At INDU, we have long embraced Dubai’s visionary approach of ‘Build It and They Will Come.’ This strategic investment is driven by a surge in demand within the automotive and aerospace sectors. With the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, we believe the timing is ideal, and we are truly grateful for the trust and support extended by the Dubai South team in bringing this project to fruition.”
Representing the pinnacle of logistical innovation encapsulated within a premier infrastructure network, Dubai South’s Logistics District offers premier services and operations as well as uninterrupted access to Jebel Ali Port via a bonded logistics corridor. The district comprises multiple zones, which have direct access to the cargo terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport; EZDubai, a fully dedicated e-commerce free zone; and a Contract Logistics Zone.
SpeedX Expands into Airfreight with Acquisition of Accelerated Global Solutions (AGS)
In a strategic move to expand its capabilities in the airfreight sector, tech-enabled last-mile delivery platform SpeedX has acquired Accelerated Global Solutions (AGS), a prominent freight forwarder.
This acquisition brings together SpeedX’s last-mile delivery strengths with AGS’s expertise in freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and warehousing solutions.
“I’m proud to announce the acquisition of AGS and begin collaborating with its exceptional team,” said Chris Zheng, Founder and CEO of SpeedX. “AGS has achieved impressive growth, with revenues breaking key milestones and a consistent annual growth rate of 50%.”
AGS, with over 300 employees and locations across North America, serves a wide range of industries, including fast fashion, automotive, healthcare, tech, metals, and seafood perishables.
Its warehousing facilities span key locations such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and Toronto, positioning SpeedX to offer a fully integrated service from factory to front door.
Expansion Goals and $1B Target
Zheng, now also President and CEO of AGS, aims to build a $1 billion end-to-end supply chain enterprise within the next 18 months. This vision includes expansion into Southeast Asia, Australia, and the EMEA region by 2025.
“With the international logistics landscape evolving, our combined resources will address growing customer needs with agility, technology-driven efficiency, and a commitment to reliability,” Zheng added. “Together, SpeedX and AGS are set to redefine the possibilities in logistics.”
The companies will continue to operate as separate brands, but combined operations are expected to yield over $500 million in revenue in 2024.
This move also strengthens SpeedX’s domestic air zone-skipping program, delivering faster and more economical shipping solutions across the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and Alaska.
