Source: Alibaba Group. Cainiao will distribute temperature-sensitive medications, including COVID-19 vaccines, globally, excluding Africa, via Dubai in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines.
Cainiao Smart Logistics Network, the logistics branch of Alibaba Group Holdings, has partnered with Ethiopian Airlines. Their collaboration will establish a specialized cold chain air freight system to transport temperature-controlled medical supplies. These shipments will originate from Shenzhen Airport, recognized as China’s first medical cross-border cold chain facility.
Temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals will be shipped twice weekly from Shenzhen. Distribution will focus on Africa and the rest of the world via transit through Dubai and Addis Ababa. This route marks China’s first consistent cross-border medical cold chain system and is certified to handle temperature-controlled pharmaceuticals, including COVID-19 vaccines.
The entire transportation process demands highly effective cold chain management. To ensure product integrity, the cold chain cabin features a temperature control system that provides real-time temperature monitoring. Shenzhen Airport, holding the distinction of being the fourth airport in Mainland China to receive the International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) certification for pharmaceutical logistics, possesses advanced capabilities for handling biotechnology products.
Ethiopia’s cargo terminal is equipped with specialized cold storage units that maintain temperatures between -23℃ and 25℃. The facility encompasses 54,000 sq m and features dedicated cool dollies, a specialized pharmaceutical team, and a real-time temperature monitoring system to guarantee secure and seamless cold chain logistics for temperature-sensitive medical products. Cool dollies are specialized containers used to move temperature-sensitive goods between cargo warehouses and aircraft.
James Zhao, GM of Cainiao International Supply Chain, emphasized, “Cainiao’s extensive logistics network covers over 200 countries and regions. We provide comprehensive integrated logistics services, including digital customs clearance capabilities. The implementation of this cold chain air freight system strengthens our global logistics capabilities. Ultimately, this allows us to provide a comprehensive solution for distributing medical products globally, including COVID-19 vaccines.”
Tewolde GebreMariam, Ethiopian Group CEO, stated, “Ethiopian Airlines is committed to replicating its commendable and globally recognized success in rapidly delivering PPEs a few months ago. We will deliver vaccines with the same speed, expert handling, and commitment to maintaining the cold chain throughout the upcoming global distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. In preparation for the COVID-19 vaccine release, we are dedicated to being at the forefront of this effort and fulfilling our responsibility to distribute the vaccine globally.” PPE stands for personal protective equipment.
Cainiao’s launch of the Green Channel initiative this year in response to the pandemic has facilitated the distribution of 250 million pieces of PPE. This effort encompassed COVID-19 test kits delivered to medical suppliers in over 150 countries and regions. Throughout the pandemic, Cainiao has partnered with various organizations to transport medical relief supplies for international organizations.