For immediate release

Hong Kong (12th December 2001): LINE - Logistics Information Network Enterprise has launched its new Transport Link service - the latest cross-border truck load matching service which will help Hong Kong shippers to ship their goods, saving up to 15% off their daily trucking cost.

Transport Link is developed specifically for shippers and trucking companies operating between Hong Kong and Mainland China, by making use of Guanlan Inland Container Depots (GICD) to minimize empty container trips for truckers and reduce cross-border traffic.

Behind Transport Link is a sound win-win-win model for carriers, truckers and shippers. From the moment a shipper places a cross-border container trucking request with Transport Link, their delivery request will be matched with truckers to maximize spare capacity on their return journey.

Currently, cross-border truckers carrying a load to the mainland have to return to Hong Kong with an empty container after delivering their load. Likewise, cross-border truckers have to travel across the border with an empty container to be able to collect a load on the mainland before returning to deliver the container to port.

Now, truckers can exchange empty container at GICD, which is strategically located in central Shenzhen, about 20 miles north of Hong Kong. Shenzhen Customs endorsed GICD as the first and only official comprehensive container exchange depot within the region.

LINE CEO Aaron Mak said the new service would benefit shippers and trucking companies by cutting delivery time and lowering operating costs.

"With Transport Link, truckers can now pick up extra loads without having to travel all the way back to Hong Kong. That's going to cut their traveling time and their operating costs. Lower costs for truckers means lower costs for shippers - and they'll get their goods delivered faster."

Mak said the increased efficiency would also open up new business opportunities for truckers. "Truckers can now pick up extra cargo and make extra delivery runs. That means more business for them."

Transport Link is expected to ease traffic congestion at the border crossing points as trucks no longer need to cross the border to collect empty containers by making use of GICD services.

About LINE

LINE is a leading provider of supply chain and logistics solutions, providing collaborative networks and visibility services globally.

LINE is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH), the world's leading port investor, developer and operator with interests in 15 countries throughout Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. Today, HPH operates a total of 29 ports together with a number of transportation related service companies.

For further information, please contact:

Sonia Li
Marketing Communications Manager, Corporate Communications
LINE - Logistics Information Network Enterprise Limited
23/F Caroline Centre, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 3161 2021
Fax: (852) 2882 9556
E-mail: media@line.net