China crucial for e-freight push

IATA has pledged to launch e-freight in China in an ambitious Shanghai Pudong pilot set to launch in 2013.
The major Chinese hub has been chosen as part of a strategy to boost e-freight in this critical market.
Alongside planned pilots in one of either Brazil, Russia or India, IATA plan to focus on the digitisation of core freight ‘pouch’ documents including Airway Bills (AWB).
One of the key challenges facing the e-freight project is engaging the Chinese authorities who have so far not implemented E-freight, despite international lobbying.
Guillaume Drucy, head of cargo e-business, commenting on the Shanghai pilot, says: “The key is quality not volume. It is very important we engage with customs and with the Chinese authorities."
Read the full story in Air Cargo News out Monday.