DHL opens export facility at Sydney Airport

US-based logistics company DHL today opened a USD20 million export facility at Sydney Airport, as it anticipates further free trade agreements between Australia and its trading partners.

The air express cargo facility, dubbed Oceania Hub, is the largest of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, with the capacity to move over 90,000 kilograms of freight each day.

DHL said it was hoping to benefit from increased international trade following Australia’s free trade agreement with the US, as well an expected deal with the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

“Recognising the potential for further growth, DHL has implemented a business strategy that has focused on capacity building,” DHL Express regional director Gary Edstein said.

“Given the scope of recently adopted free trade agreements and ongoing negotiations between ASEAN nations for trade liberalisation, both these facilities are great news for Australian organisations looking to further their business through overseas trade.”

Trade Minister Mark Vaile, who opened the new building, said the Australian export industry hinged on private sector infrastructure investment.

“This is crucial to maintain our competitive advantage against other competitors in the international marketplace,” he said.

“This is a fantastic instalment to continue to erode away the disadvantage of the tyranny of distance from some of our markets.”

DHL is also expecting to inaugurate new hubs in Perth and Darwin over the coming months.