Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), one of the world's largest express transportation companies, has announced a major upgrade to its Shanghai International Express and Cargo Hub at Pudong International Airport that will transform the facility into an intercontinental transit hub.

FedEx made the announcement at the 2024 North Bund Forum in Shanghai, where Poh-Yian Koh, senior vice president of FedEx and president of FedEx China, joined local government officials to officially unveil the initiative by lighting up the screen at the ceremony.

"A key highlight of the forum is the announcement of FedEx’s plan to upgrade its Shanghai International Express and Cargo Hub, underscoring the company’s continued investment in China," FedEx said in a statement.

It noted that the establishment of this intercontinental transit hub will expand lanes connecting Shanghai with China's second and third-tier cities in various ways, extending the reach of FedEx's network.

FedEx said that the facility will "significantly enhance" the connectivity between China and global markets through FedEx's network and support the global growth, efficiency and flexibility of local businesses through its unique service offerings.

"This move is set to contribute to the establishment of Shanghai as a comprehensive, multi-functional international aviation gateway and a leading global air cargo hub," FedEx added.

Shanghai, as a vital centre of China's foreign trade and economic activity, plays a strategic role in FedEx's global network. 

FedEx noted that it has been deeply rooted in the city since it established its China headquarters in Shanghai in 2004.

The Shanghai International Express and Cargo Hub opened in 2018, is a critical facility for FedEx in the Asia-Pacific region and the largest of its kind at Pudong International Airport.

This year, FedEx inaugurated its new China headquarters in Shanghai, reinforcing the company’s steadfast commitment to China and connecting China to the rest of the world.

Co-hosted by China's Ministry of Transport and the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, the 2024 North Bund Forum is themed "Digital, Smart, and Green: Co-Creating a New Ecosystem of Global Shipping and Aviation."

The forum aims to explore trends in global shipping and aviation, foster international exchanges and cooperation, and support the sustainable development of China's transportation sector.