[Cathay Cargo] Launches Integrated Transport Network for Perishable Goods in Greater Bay Area, Combining Air, Land, and Sea

Cathay Cargo, the airfreight division of Cathay (Headquartered in Hong Kong, CEO: Ronald Lam), has established a fully integrated intermodal transport network for perishable goods that seamlessly connects air, land, and sea transport, as part of its efforts to enhance its function as an international cargo gateway in Hong Kong's Greater Bay Area (GBA).

This network introduces a new refrigerated barge service, establishing a direct transport route between Hong Kong International Airport and Cathay Cargo Terminal in Dongguan. It also expands the "Air-Land Fresh Lane" service to Macau via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB). By combining these with the existing airfreight connection service to Guangzhou, customers gain access to a wider range of transport route options, enhanced cold chain quality control, and improved access to one of Asia's leading consumer markets.

First Air-Sea Integrated Perishable Transport Solution in the Greater Bay Area

The newly introduced barge service marks the first commercial-scale air-sea integrated transport of refrigerated perishable goods from Hong Kong to the Greater Bay Area. Following a trial conducted in early 2026, this service is now fully operational.

Cargo is loaded onto pallets, minimizing handling risks during transshipment while maintaining packaging integrity. The barges travel directly to Cathay Cargo Terminal Dongguan in Humen, where consignees can receive their cargo at dedicated refrigerated storage facilities located at the quay. Furthermore, unlike fixed schedules for scheduled flights, departure times can be set flexibly, making it a suitable transport solution for cargo where cost-efficiency is prioritized over speed.

Perishable Goods Transported to Macau in as Little as 4 Hours

The expansion of the "Air-Land Fresh Lane" service to Macau adds a new destination utilizing the HZMB, enabling transport to Macau's luxury retail and hospitality markets. Perishable goods can be transported from Hong Kong International Airport to their final destination in Macau in as little as 4 hours, including customs and quarantine procedures.

Cargo undergoes pre-customs clearance procedures by Hong Kong Customs and is sealed with an approved seal, typically eliminating the need for re-inspection when crossing land borders. This avoids significant delays for time-sensitive cargo. A 24/7 transit terminal and refrigerated trucks maintain an unbroken cold chain from aircraft to final delivery.

Integrated Logistics Network Realized Through Three Transport Modes

All three transport routes are available under Cathay Cargo's logistics network with a single Air Waybill (AWB). Leveraging expertise certified by IATA's "CEIV Fresh" certification, the cold chain for perishable goods is seamlessly maintained from origin to final destination.

Each transport route caters to different transport needs:

Air-Air: Utilizes cargo space on up to three daily passenger flights between Hong Kong and Guangzhou for highly urgent cargo. Smooth transshipment within the airport restricted area and early morning arrivals enable delivery within wholesale market trading hours.

Air-Land: Direct delivery to Zhuhai and Macau via cross-border cold chain truck transport across the HZMB.

Air-Sea: The new refrigerated barge service to Dongguan offers a cost-effective and flexible scheduling option for relatively less time-sensitive cargo.

Additionally, eligible cargo transported to the Greater Bay Area via the Air-Land Fresh Lane can utilize truck transport services at special rates until December 31, 2026, through the "Cross-boundary Trucking Subsidy Scheme" implemented by the Airport Authority Hong Kong.

Comment from James Evans, General Manager Commercial, Cathay Cargo

The Greater Bay Area is expected to see significant growth as a market for high-quality perishable goods. Cathay Cargo has enhanced the connectivity of its transport network and improved service quality throughout the entire transport process to meet customer needs. Currently, three intermodal transport routes, each with distinct strengths in speed, cost, and flexibility, are fully operational, providing customers with optimal transport solutions. We will continue to expand our network in line with growing demand and further strengthen Hong Kong's position as a leading global air cargo hub.

About Cathay Cargo

Cathay Cargo is the airfreight division of the Cathay Group and one of the world's leading air cargo operators. Based in Hong Kong, it serves over 100 cargo destinations worldwide. It operates 14 Boeing 747-8Fs and six Boeing 747-400ERFs (Extended Range Freighters) as dedicated freighters, in addition to utilizing cargo space on Cathay Pacific's wide-body passenger aircraft. The cargo division also includes Air Hong Kong, an express cargo carrier operating in partnership with DHL, and operates the Cathay Cargo Terminal at Hong Kong International Airport. Cathay Cargo is also the general sales agent for cargo for Hong Kong Express, Cathay Group's low-cost carrier. Cathay is a member of the Swire Group and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKSE).

Cathay Cargo Website: www.cathaycargo.com

Official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cathay-cargo