The Dongguan-Hong Kong International Air Logistics Hub has rapidly established itself as a premier cross-border logistics solution for manufacturers in the Greater Bay Area, offering efficient, cost-effective transportation services that are transforming regional supply chains.
In 2025, the hub handled import/export cargo worth 29.721 billion yuan (approximately $4.2 billion), marking a staggering 90.32% year-on-year increase. This growth underscores the facility's pivotal role in connecting Greater Bay Area manufacturing with global markets through its innovative "Regional Manufacturing + Hong Kong Aviation" synergy.
Impressive Performance Metrics
Key statistics demonstrate the hub's remarkable ascent in cross-border logistics:
- Annual cargo value reached 29.721 billion yuan in 2025, up 90.32% year-on-year
- Cargo volume totaled 28,000 metric tons, increasing 78% annually
- Cumulative cargo value surpassed 50 billion yuan since operations began in April 2023
- Served 1,353 Greater Bay Area enterprises expanding into overseas markets
- Attracted 140 freight forwarders with Dongguan delivery qualifications
- Recognized by 27 major airlines
- Operates 11 international routes covering key global markets
Monthly cargo volume has grown nearly ninefold from initial 270 metric tons to 2,356 metric tons. The hub achieves remarkable efficiency with just 14 hours required from cargo processing to flight departure at Hong Kong Airport, reducing overall costs by 30% while improving delivery times by 20%.
Innovation-Driven Growth
The hub's success stems from three strategic advantages:
1. Pioneering Cross-Border Sea-Air Transport Model: This innovative approach extends Hong Kong Airport's core functions—including security checks, pallet building, and cargo acceptance—to Dongguan's Humen Port Comprehensive Bonded Zone. Goods complete pre-processing in Dongguan before direct shipment to Hong Kong Airport via barge, enabling seamless global distribution.
2. Smart Customs Supervision: Huangpu Customs has integrated oversight into key operational processes, implementing 24-hour automated inspection systems and advanced X-ray imaging technologies that significantly enhance clearance efficiency.
3. Expanding Ecosystem: All three major Hong Kong cargo terminals have established operations at the hub, while route networks continue expanding to serve growing demand.
Strategic Value for Businesses
The hub delivers tangible benefits across enterprise segments:
- Small and medium enterprises gain airport-quality services locally, reducing logistics costs by approximately 40%
- Major corporations leverage dedicated routes and charter flights to support emerging business models
- Logistics platforms expand service offerings through integrated sea-air transport solutions
The facility has become particularly vital for cross-border e-commerce, which now accounts for over 40% of cargo volume, while supporting diverse product categories including consumer electronics and high-tech goods.
Future Development
The hub plans continued expansion through:
- Enhanced route networks to Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia
- Integration with overseas warehouses and multimodal transport options
- Expanded smart customs policies for high-value cargo
- Strengthened data connectivity for supply chain transparency
While facing challenges including fluctuating transport capacity and evolving regulations, the hub remains committed to optimizing operations through digital solutions and infrastructure improvements.