DHL Express has expanded its logistics and air network in China with a €177 million investment in its Shenzhen “Super Gateway” and the launch of a new dedicated intercontinental freighter route linking Shanghai, Bangkok, Bahrain and Brussels.
The investment represents DHL’s largest single investment in mainland China to date and is aimed at increasing capacity for customers involved in manufacturing, cross-border trade and e-commerce.
Located at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, the expanded gateway has tripled its processing capacity to approximately 900 tonnes per day. The facility is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs and strengthen DHL’s ability to handle time-sensitive international shipments from southern China.
The new air service uses a Boeing 767 freighter and connects Shanghai with Bangkok, Bahrain and Brussels. The route is designed to provide additional cargo capacity between China and key markets across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
DHL said the investments are intended to support customers as global supply chains evolve amid changing trade patterns, geopolitical disruptions and shifting sourcing strategies. China remains an important manufacturing, sourcing, innovation and consumption hub despite increasing diversification in global supply chains.
The expanded Shenzhen facility will support growing volumes of cross-border e-commerce, international express shipments and industrial cargo. DHL also sees rising demand from sectors including semiconductors, data centres, life sciences, healthcare and new energy.
The investment highlights DHL’s continued commitment to China as a major component of its international logistics network. By combining expanded ground infrastructure with additional dedicated air capacity, the company aims to improve shipment processing, connectivity and transit options for Chinese exporters and international businesses operating in the country.
The Shenzhen expansion and new freighter service are expected to strengthen DHL Express’s ability to connect Chinese manufacturing and consumer markets with customers and suppliers across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.