Thanks to the matchmaking efforts of the Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce (FCCC) – among others – Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Ostend-Bruges International Airport signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation.
On May 28, the 5th Opening Chengdu Sharing Session 2025-Signing Ceremony for the Strategic Cooperation between Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Ostend-Bruges International Airport & Marketing Event of Ostend-Bruges International Airport, took place at the Business & Innovation Centre for China-Europe Cooperation (CCEC). Hosted by Ostend-Bruges International Airport and supported by Chengdu Municipal Commerce Bureau, Chengdu Municipal Port and Logistics Office, Chengdu Opening-up and International Cooperation Center (COICC), Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, and CCEC, the event marked a new chapter in in-depth aviation cooperation between Chengdu and Belgium.
With the matchmaking efforts made by Chengdu Municipal Port and Logistics Office, COICC, and our C&P members, BORNS and Flanders-China Chamber of Commerce, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Ostend-Bruges International Airport officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in key fields like aviation operations, technical management, commercial development, data and innovation. By pooling their resources and strengths, the two airports aim to explore broader cooperation horizons.
Mr. Eric Dumas, CEO of Ostend-Bruges International Airport, stated: “The annual cargo throughput of Chengdu International Aviation Hub exceeding one million tons has set an example and benchmark for the development of Ostend-Bruges International Airport. We are convinced that this cooperation will enhance supply chain resilience and unlock new market opportunities for Chinese and Belgian enterprises.”
At the event, COICC introduced the Chengdu & Partners Program, stating that it will gather kindred spirits and pool premium resources for Chengdu and its enterprises through platform building, project cooperation, and trade promotion. Eric Dumas commented, “We look forward to reaching Chengdu’s business community through this Program and building a more efficient route of cargo transport for China-Europe trade.”
The event was graced by a massive turn-out of industry big-shots. It brought together over 30 leading cargo and logistics companies, including Lufthansa Cargo, DHL Global Forwarding, Sinotrans Air Transport Development, and China Air Express, all eager to expand international business and deepen cooperation. The Ostend-Bruges International Airport made a promotion presentation on the site, showcasing its state-of-the-art facilities, excellent services, and immense potential for collaboration with Chengdu, enabling the attendees to learn that the airport is the key aviation gateway in Belgium in a clear and profound manner.
Currently, Chengdu is accelerating its “Three Centers and One Base” initiative (the Economic Center, Technology Innovation Center, and External Exchange Center in West China and the National Advanced Manufacturing Base). In Chengdu’s epic journey to develop into a modern socialist international metropolis in western China with global influence and reputation, the soaring international aviation hub in the making is unleashing mighty momentum for opening-up.
Since the opening of Tianfu International Airport in June 2021, Chengdu has become the third city on the Chinese mainland to have two international airports, achieving a quantum leap in hub connectivity, elements agglomeration and industrial leadership. In 2024, the dual-airport cargo throughput surpassed one million tons, making Chengdu the fifth city in China to join the “Million-Ton Club”. This year, Chengdu has further expanded its far-reaching global network by launching multiple new international cargo routes.
Meanwhile, Ostend-Bruges International Airport, certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), is vital in Europe’s aviation landscape.
Eric Dumas introduced that the airport operates 24/7, ensuring rapid cargo turnover and accommodating all aircraft types. It serves as a training hub for pilots of major airlines and offers seamless connectivity to maritime, road, and rail transition. Its proximity to the Channel Tunnel allows cargo to reach the UK market in as fast as three hours. Thus, the airport holds significant advantages in geographical location, operational efficiency, and ground services.
