Frankfurt Airport operator Fraport AG and Shanghai Pudong Airport have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand cooperation in cargo operations, optimise regulatory processes and jointly develop market potential, reported Hamburg's Cargo Forwarder Global.

The agreement follows a Fraport roadshow in Shanghai last year and builds on regular exchanges between the two airport communities. Both sides said the partnership will strengthen international freight flows between East Asia and Europe.

Frankfurt currently handles 5 million e-commerce shipments a month, much of it originating in China. The partnership is part of Fraport's CargoHub Frankfurt master plan, which includes new cargo buildings and warehouses to boost competitiveness in European air freight.

Joint projects will include a rapid response and communication mechanism to accelerate customs clearance, as well as roadshows and industry events to foster shared standards and innovation. Digitalisation initiatives such as cargo community systems and standardised e-commerce processes are also planned.

Fraport vice president Alexander Laukenmann said cooperation will involve expert exchanges, site visits and working groups to optimise cargo flight frequencies and slot allocation. He added that cargo clients will benefit from reduced lead times, greater transparency and improved reliability.

Fraport identified China as a top-priority market under its Cargo Masterplan, with Shanghai Pudong offering strong potential for new trade lanes. India is also a focus, with roadshows already held to explore future opportunities.

Mr Laukenmann confirmed that financial cross-shareholding is not part of the agreement. The partnership is based on mutual benefit, knowledge exchange and joint initiatives, with each party remaining independent while cooperating within the agreed framework.