Shanghai-based China Eastern Airlines reported that their transport of fresh produce has increased in the last 5 years from 2 planes per year to more than 200 this year. The import value of their fresh produce transport increased from 1 million yuan [140 thousand USD] to 1 billion yuan [140 million USD]. The import volume increased from 210 tons to 9,800 tons last year. China Eastern Airlines hopes the volume will exceed 10 thousand tons this year.
At the same time, while domestic consumption and the demand for fresh produce imports increase, the Chinese supply chain and distribution network faces great challenges. The distribution industry constantly upgrades to improve its weak points. Companies in the industry construct complete refrigerated supply chain facilities and explore integrated transport methods.
China Eastern Airlines currently transports directly from production areas in more than 30 countries. Their transport includes more than 150 product varieties in such categories as fresh dairy products, drinks, seafood, meat products, fruit, vegetables, and snacks. Furthermore, this mode of transport allows for a custom-built service that helps importers bring in fresh produce from all over the world.
Source: Wen Wei Po