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.
