Birkart Globistics strengthens its position in the Far East

Ed Richardson BIRKART GLOBISTICS South Africa is positioning itself as the preferred logistics provider in the Far East, particularly in China. The company was recently awarded an A-Class Licence for trading and logistics services. Robert Schmidt, general manager of sales and marketing at Birkart Globistics SA, explained that the Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) enabled the company to do business in China as a wholly-owned foreign enterprise (WOFE). Through this, Birkart’s customers can make use of outsourced supply chain management solutions outside the free trade zones. Birkart was the first enterprise in Shanghai’s Wai Gao Qiao free trade zone with an A-Class licence. According to Schmidt, exports of catalytic converters and various other automotive components to China have soared. This stems from the growth in the automotive industry in China, particularly in Shanghai and Shenzhen. On the import shipment side, Schmidt says Birkart is experiencing an increased call for airfreight as a result of the deadlines demanded by Chinese Original Equipment Manufacturers. The company intends establishing hubs in China to help streamline the logistics process. “Birkart Globistics will continue to focus on China with the creation of various hubs, utilising our current network of 16 offices across China. Dedicated route managers focus on preferred carriers and help streamline the flow of cargo between China and South Africa,” says Schmidt.