OTAL expands into China

Strengthening its position as a leading player in West African shipping and logistics, OT Africa Line (OTAL) has expanded its agency network in China. United Transportation Limited (UTL), OTAL's general agents covering Hong Kong and China, will now co-ordinate all Chinese commercial and operational activities via a sub agency network managed by Chiao Feng Shipping Ltd. With headquarters in Hong Kong, Chiao Feng has strategically located offices (highlighted below) based at important regional transhipment hubs. Chiao Feng has been established for 15 years with all branches holding a Class A license issued by the Chinese Government granting authority to handle freight traffic throughout the region. Chiao Feng offers a wide range of international freight forwarding services including customs clearance, documentation, consolidation, storage and warehousing. OTAL's weekly service from China to West Africa is based on Connecting Carrier Agreements (CCA's) with well-established carriers which offer direct calls from a number of major Chinese ports. Paul Page, OTAL's marketing manager, said: "China has over 1.3 billion people, representing an emerging and dynamic market which previously has been virtually closed. Despite the effects of the Asian economic downturn, China remains one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and is predicted to become the world's largest economic center by the year 2030. "Cargoes from China will continue to increase as entrepreneurial cooperation between Hong Kong and mainland China improves competitiveness. China also faces a possible shortage of some mineral resources and its robust economic growth is forcing it to better utilize resources abroad. Africa can provide these natural resources.