WorldNet Logistics sets up joint venture company in China

DEVELOPING THE Asian market has been a priority focus for industry major WorldNet Logistics – and it’s working effectively. “We have developed and established strong ties with Asia, particularly China,” says MD Joachim Bade. “The country’s economic upsurge continues unabated and it remains the world’s fastest-growing major economy with an average annual growth rate of 10.1 % over the past five years. “For many years WorldNet has explored this market together with one of the key players and strong service providers in China – Jet Speed,” says Bade. “Now, in conjunction with our German offices which not only act as a gateway to South Africa but have built up their own market, we are in the ideal situation of being able to trade on our own as a growing company between Europe, China and Africa.” The company has entered into a joint venture with its Chinese partners and from January 1 next year World Net Logistics (China) will be fully operational, headquartered in Hong Kong with offices in 12 Chinese cities. Through the China office, WorldNet Logistics will be in a position to add value for its clients in terms of market trends and logistics techniques, says Bade. In a further extension of the logistics services on offer, World Net Express recently came on stream offering courier and distribution services nationally and internationally. WorldNet was established in South Africa five years ago and has since opened offices in Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town with two offices in Johannesburg. Further offices followed in Bremen and Frankfurt, Germany. The company is the exclusive South African member of the highly successful global freight forwarding and logistics network – The Waco System – which celebrates its 35th anniversary with an annual general meeting to be held in Cape Town in April 2008. The event is expected to host around 120 partners from around the globe.