Despite a slowdown in air freight and frequent changes in available capacity, Rhenus is increasing volumes on the China–Europe corridor. Since the beginning of 2026, ocean freight volumes from China to Europe have grown by around 26% year on year, while air freight growth has been driven by new customer acquisitions. The logistics operator released the figures during the ninth China International Import Expo, held in Shanghai from 5 to 10 November 2026, where it was among the exhibitors.
For Rhenus, the China–Europe corridor is its largest ocean freight trade lane by volume, considering both directions, while Europe is the main destination for air cargo handled by the group from China. Renee Toh, Global Head of Ocean Freight, says the aim is to build long-term customer relationships. According to Toh, cooperation between teams in China and Europe, together with partner carriers, enables Rhenus to better understand customers' priorities and jointly plan their transport requirements.
The air freight market remains weak. According to Rotate, e-commerce volumes fell by 28% between July and August 2026, while demand on the Europe–China route declined by 5% between January and August 2026. Against this backdrop, Rhenus has increased air freight volumes from China to Europe by winning new customers, while volumes in the opposite direction have grown by around 20%. High-tech is among the group's fastest-growing sectors in air freight between the two continents. Chris Bode, Vice President of Air Freight, explains that the strategy focuses on growth in areas where specialist expertise makes a difference to customers. By combining industry knowledge with flexible access to air cargo capacity, Rhenus aims to turn this approach into sustained growth.
To support these flows, Rhenus has more than 550 employees and 16 offices across Greater China, connected to the group's European network. Its Shanghai and Hong Kong hubs provide cargo consolidation and handling services, complemented by customs support, warehousing and road transport.
