Frequency between Shanghai and the integrator’s European air hub in Liege, Belgium, has increased to six flights per week, and from Hong Kong to five flights per week. The company said the move was in response to stronger demand especially from the high-tech and fashion industries.

Chinese exports to Europe rose almost 50 percent during the five first months of 2010 compared with the previous year, according to the Chinese General Administration of Customs. Bilateral trade between China and the EU totaled $177 billion in the same period, an increase of 37.4 percent over last year, confirming the EU’s position as China’s number one trade partner.

Michael Drake, regional managing director of TNT North Asia, said: “With our integrated air and road delivery capabilities in China and Europe, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the strong trading links between these two trading regions.”

Iman Stratenus, managing director of TNT China, added: “TNT has seen a significant increase in customer demand for freight services between the regions. Our current freighters between China and Europe are operating at full capacity.

“The increased dedicated freighter capacity will ensure our customers, especially those in the high-tech and fashion/lifestyle sectors, become more competitive due to shorter factory-to-market lead times and increased supply chain management efficiency.”

TNT introduced the 110-tonne extended range freighters between mainland China and Europe in February 2007, adding Hong Kong to Liege in September 2009. Alongside its international express services, the company is developing its domestic Chinese operations, including a day-definite road service linking 26 large cities.

• TNT has announced it is increasing rates for its express services within Europe by an average of 3.5 percent as part of a global yield improvement program.