Shanghai's Pudong and Hongqiao international airports have reached a major milestone, processing over 4.5 million metric tons of cargo and mail in 2025.

In particular, Pudong International Airport has handled more than 4 million tons, surpassing Memphis International Airport in the United States and securing the second position globally, following Hong Kong International Airport.

The success of this achievement can be attributed to the efforts of Shanghai Customs, which has implemented significant regulatory reforms and advanced the development of smart port technologies. By combining innovative policies with cutting-edge technologies, Shanghai Customs has addressed the complexities of international transit involving multiple airlines.

In collaboration with top global freight companies and ground agents at Pudong Airport, Shanghai Customs has introduced a seamless transit service that facilitates prompt changes in carriers, waybills, and ground agents.

Following the confirmation of data, cargo is cleared instantly, ensuring smooth port operations. In 2025, Pudong Customs managed 18,800 international transit shipments, totaling 31,200 tons, representing significant growth compared to the previous year.

Moreover, Shanghai Customs has enhanced coordination between Pudong and Hongqiao airports through the deployment of smart tools such as electronic locks and Beidou positioning technology. This innovative system provides real-time tracking and risk management, improving transit efficiency, minimizing cargo damage, and reducing logistics costs. In 2025, the customs authority handled 1,561 "two-airport transfer" shipments, weighing 2,443 tons.

To promote trade innovation, Shanghai Customs is extending port functionalities inland and supporting the establishment of local pre-positioned cargo stations. In April 2025, the Shanghai Airport-Suzhou Pre-positioned Cargo Station was launched, followed by the Songjiang Comprehensive Bonded Zone Air Pre-positioned Cargo Station in July. This new model allows companies to complete export procedures locally, with cargo entering a fully digitized customs process after undergoing security checks.

The implementation of these innovative systems ensures continuous real-time clearance, boosting logistics efficiency by 60 percent and cutting costs by 10 percent to 30 percent, providing substantial benefits to enterprises.