A visit to FedEx’s North China Regional Headquarters in Beijing offers an immediate sense of how deeply sustainability is embedded in the company’s operations and culture. Sunlight streams into the bright, open-plan office, where vibrant colors distinguish different workspaces and every design detail reflects the company’s values and identity. Outside the windows, rows of neatly arranged solar panels stretch across the rooftop. Inside, there is no blast of excessive air conditioning. Instead, energy-efficient electric fans are thoughtfully positioned throughout the workplace.
“Fans are not only more energy-efficient than air conditioners, but they’re also better for employees’ health,” says Poh-Yian Koh, President of FedEx China. Her comment reflects a broader philosophy at FedEx: sustainability is not just a statement of intent, but a principle that shapes daily operations and workplace practices across the organization.
This spirit of pragmatism and long-term commitment has defined FedEx’s journey in China for more than four decades. Since entering the Chinese market in 1984, the company has steadily expanded its presence while playing an increasingly important role in connecting China with the global economy. At the center of this journey is Poh-Yian Koh. Having lived and worked in China for 36 years, she has witnessed the country’s transformation from a manufacturing powerhouse and major trading nation into a global leader in innovation, technology, and industrial capability. As China has evolved, FedEx has evolved alongside it, continuously strengthening the logistics infrastructure that enables businesses to connect seamlessly with opportunities around the world.
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Speaking on topics ranging from global supply chain transformation and digital innovation to sustainability and talent development, Koh brings both a global perspective and deep local insight. Her observations reflect not only the changing dynamics of international trade but also China’s increasingly strategic role in shaping the future of global logistics.
In this exclusive interview for Sina Finance’s Multinationals in China series, we explore how FedEx is positioning China as a key pillar of its global strategy. From enhancing supply chain resilience and accelerating digital transformation to advancing sustainability goals and cultivating future talent, Koh shares how the company is navigating change while pursuing long-term growth in one of the world’s most dynamic and strategically important markets.
Below is the full transcript of the conversation:
Section I: Corporate Strategy
Sina Finance: You have previously observed that China is transitioning from a “participant in the global system” to a “provider of global capabilities.” How is this shift reflected in FedEx’s development strategy in China and its broader global footprint?
Poh-Yian Koh: For FedEx, this transition means that China is no longer simply an important market. It has become a strategic growth engine that helps shape our global business priorities. This is evident in three key areas.
China as a Vital Hub for Global Supply Chain Resilience
China’s comprehensive industrial ecosystem and world-class manufacturing capabilities make it an indispensable part of global supply chains.
Building on these strengths, FedEx continues to increase its investment in China by enhancing and expanding international flight networks that connect the country with key markets across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. At the same time, we are deepening collaboration with leading local partners such as China Southern Air Logistics.
By combining our complementary strengths, we are helping build a global supply chain network that is more stable, agile, and resilient in the face of ongoing uncertainty. In this way, China"s robust domestic logistics capabilities are actively integrated to reinforce our global network resilience.
China as a Launchpad for Smart Logistics Innovation
As the Digital China initiative continues to gain momentum, smart logistics has become an integral component of modern distribution systems.
China’s scale, innovation ecosystem, and abundance of real-world application scenarios make it an ideal environment for testing, deploying, and ultimately exporting emerging technologies and business models. FedEx combines a robust physical network with advanced digital capabilities in China. Leveraging the vast operational data generated by our network, together with artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies, we are developing innovative digital solutions in China that have the potential to scale across our global footprint, creating tangible value for customers worldwide.
China as a Bellwether for Business Model Evolution
Rapid growth in sectors such as cross-border e-commerce, advanced healthcare, and high-tech manufacturing has accelerated changes in customer expectations.
Against an evolving global trade landscape, many Chinese companies engaged in international business are transitioning from traditional B2B models toward B2B2C models. This shift is driving higher expectations for speed, reliability, visibility, and sustainability across the supply chain.
To meet these evolving demands, FedEx continues to enhance both its service portfolio and global network capabilities.
More broadly, FedEx itself is undergoing a significant transformation. Historically, we were known primarily as a transportation company focused on moving shipments from Point A to Point B. Today, we are evolving into a strategic supply chain partner for our customers.
Beyond transportation, we leverage our global network, digital capabilities, and industry expertise to help businesses optimize supply chain processes, mitigate cross-border risks, improve operational efficiency, and lower total logistics costs. Ultimately, this enables our customers to strengthen their competitiveness in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
Sina Finance: Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty, shifting global trade patterns, and increasingly stringent customs regulations, cross-border complexity has become a major challenge for businesses worldwide. As a leading logistics provider with an extensive global network and deep industry expertise, how is FedEx helping customers navigate these challenges and improve the efficiency of international trade? Could you share some examples?
Poh-Yian Koh: The global trade environment has undergone profound changes in recent years. Whether driven by tariff adjustments, regional supply chain realignments, or evolving regulatory requirements, businesses today face a far more complex operating landscape.
For example, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recently implemented mandatory electronic filing (eFiling) requirements as of July 8, 2026, while the European Union continues to tighten declaration standards and introduce significant changes to customs and duty policies. In this environment, businesses require far more than a traditional logistics provider. They need a strategic supply chain partner capable of helping them navigate complexity and uncertainty.
FedEx supports customers in three key ways.
Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience Through Our Global Network
FedEx connects more than 220 countries and territories through one of the world"s most extensive transportation networks.
When customers adjust manufacturing footprints, diversify sourcing strategies, or expand into new markets, we leverage our global network and operational capacity to provide reliable, efficient, and flexible transportation solutions. This enables businesses to optimize resource allocation and reduce risks associated with excessive dependence on a single market, supplier base, or trade lane.
Providing Regulatory and Customs Expertise
One of the most significant challenges in international trade today is the growing complexity of regulatory compliance.
FedEx maintains a global network of customs and compliance professionals who closely monitor policy developments and regulatory changes across markets. We help customers manage import and export requirements, review documentation, and streamline customs clearance processes, reducing compliance risks while minimizing delays and unnecessary costs. For example, to help APAC exporters navigate the new U.S. CPSC mandates, we hosted extensive regulatory webinars and proactively guided thousands of local businesses on data preparation.
Enhancing Visibility Through Digital Solutions
In an increasingly volatile environment, transparency and predictability have become essential components of supply chain management.
FedEx uses advanced digital platforms and data analytics to provide customers with near real-time visibility into shipment status and transit progress. We have integrated compliance tools—such as the new CPSC eFiling capabilities—directly into our digital channels like FedEx Ship Manager™, enabling businesses to submit critical customs data seamlessly during their normal shipping workflow. These insights enable businesses to make informed decisions regarding inventory planning, production scheduling, and sales strategies, ultimately improving operational performance and responsiveness.
Let me share two examples that illustrate this approach in action.
A Chinese Fashion Accessories Company Expanding Overseas
To diversify production risks amid changing global trade dynamics, a Chinese fashion accessories company established a manufacturing base in Thailand.
FedEx designed a dedicated China-Thailand logistics corridor with approximately 20-hour transit times, supported by pre-clearance capabilities and digital customs processes to improve efficiency. In 2025, we further strengthened this route by launching direct flights from Guangzhou to Thailand, increasing both capacity and reliability.
With a robust logistics infrastructure in place, the company was able to successfully reconfigure its production strategy while accelerating expansion into Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
A German Luxury Automotive Manufacturer
Another example involves a German luxury automaker advancing its localization strategy in China.
The company needed to import precision components and dangerous goods on a frequent basis while operating under a highly demanding just-in-time (JIT) production model. This required exceptional reliability, visibility, and regulatory compliance.
FedEx enabled end-to-end digital collaboration across supply chain partners and implemented automated waybill management while ensuring full compliance with dangerous goods regulations. Leveraging our Asia-Europe air cargo network and customized transportation solutions, we optimized routing and capacity utilization, helping the customer achieve both operational reliability and cost efficiency.
Ultimately, customers today value more than speed alone. They are increasingly focused on resilience, control, and predictability.
FedEx"s value lies not only in moving goods efficiently but also in helping customers navigate complex trade and regulatory environments, strengthen supply chain resilience, manage risk, and achieve the right balance between cost and performance.
The definition of efficiency itself has evolved. In the past, efficiency largely meant moving faster. Today, true efficiency is measured by a supply chain"s ability to combine speed, resilience, visibility, and control. Helping customers build these capabilities is the long-term value FedEx aims to deliver.
Section III: Technological Innovation
Poh-Yian Koh: Artificial intelligence and data technologies are fundamentally transforming the logistics industry.
Historically, logistics providers focused primarily on transporting goods from one location to another. Today, our role extends far beyond transportation. By combining data intelligence, advanced analytics, and digital capabilities, we help customers build more agile, efficient, and resilient supply chains.
We see AI creating value across three critical dimensions.
Driving Efficiency Across the Value Chain
Real-time analytics and intelligent algorithms enable us to optimize transportation routes, forecast demand fluctuations, and automate warehouse and operational processes.
These capabilities improve efficiency throughout the supply chain while reducing operational costs.
For example, AI-powered tracking systems have transformed cross-border e-commerce logistics by providing greater transparency and visibility throughout the shipping journey. Customers can monitor shipments in near real time, creating a higher level of certainty and control. This is particularly valuable for Chinese e-commerce companies expanding rapidly into international markets.
Evolving from Reactive Problem-Solving to Predictive Intelligence
Traditionally, logistics organizations responded to disruptions after they occurred. Today, AI and advanced analytics enable businesses to identify potential risks before they materialize.
By combining data from our global network with industry and market insights, FedEx helps customers anticipate changes in demand, optimize inventory levels, and refine transportation strategies.
These technologies are already deeply integrated into our operations across China.
Most notably, on April 7 of this year (2026), we officially launched the FedEx Surround® Monitoring & Intervention (MI) Suite in China. This intelligent solution utilizes advanced network sensor technology, including SenseAware ID—lightweight sensors that transmit precise package location data every two seconds via Bluetooth Low Energy. With three subscription tiers (Select, Preferred, and Premium), FedEx Surround® leverages AI and machine learning to predict potential shipping disruptions, enabling our dedicated 24/7 expert teams to intervene proactively before a delay occurs.
Additionally, at our major hubs in Guangzhou and Shanghai, AI-enabled sorting systems and automated warehousing technologies have significantly improved both throughput and accuracy.
Supporting Lower-Carbon Supply Chains
AI not only improves efficiency but also contributes to sustainability.
By optimizing routes, increasing load utilization, and reducing empty miles and idle time, intelligent technologies help lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions while maintaining operational excellence.
In addition, FedEx Sustainability Insights (FSI) leverages cloud-based analytics to help customers measure and track logistics-related emissions. FSI was recognized in China by the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing as an Innovative ESG Practice, and it continues to give our Chinese customers the emissions data they need to make informed, data-driven decisions on their future decarbonization strategies.
Ultimately, technology is not an end in itself.
What matters most is how technology creates meaningful value for customers. Whether helping Chinese companies expand globally, optimize supply chain performance, improve operational efficiency, or strengthen risk management capabilities, our goal remains the same.
Through digital innovation and intelligent technologies, FedEx is helping customers build smarter, more resilient, and future-ready supply chains.
This transformation has also elevated FedEx"s role. Today, we are more than a logistics provider. As a strategic supply chain partner, we leverage our global network and extensive logistics intelligence to help customers better understand trade flows, identify emerging opportunities, and navigate a rapidly changing global business environment.
Section IV: Sustainable Development
Sina Finance: You have consistently emphasized FedEx"s commitment to sustainability and its goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations globally by 2040. What concrete actions is FedEx taking in China to reduce its own carbon footprint while helping drive sustainability across the broader logistics ecosystem?
Poh-Yian Koh: Sustainability has evolved from a competitive differentiator into a business imperative.
FedEx announced its goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations globally by 2040 in 2021. In China, our sustainability strategy is built around three pillars: transforming our own operations, enabling low-carbon supply chains across our ecosystem, and engaging communities to promote broader environmental stewardship.
Reducing Our Operational Footprint
On the transportation side, we are leveraging China"s rapid progress in new-energy vehicle adoption to accelerate fleet electrification.
Today, more than 30% of FedEx pickup and delivery vehicles across China are electric—and in major Tier-1 hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou, we have achieved nearly 100% electrification of our pickup and delivery fleet. We have also provided eco-driving training to approximately 2,000 frontline team members, helping reduce fuel consumption by an average of 15% through improved driving practices.
In packaging, we continue to advance circular economy initiatives and material reduction efforts. All FedEx branded envelopes are made from 100% recycled materials, while our branded boxes are fully recyclable.
We have also repurposed nearly 1,200 retired employee uniforms into practical items such as crossbody bags and waist packs, extending the useful life of these materials while reducing waste.
Our Shanghai International Express and Cargo Hub and North China Regional Headquarters in Beijing are equipped with solar power systems and multiple energy-efficient technologies. The Shanghai facility, built to meet rigorous green building standards, also features a green roof project designed to improve energy efficiency and support ecological sustainability.
Equally important, we are fostering an organization-wide culture of sustainability. Through our voluntary GoGreen program, more than 10,000 employees have participated in initiatives that promote environmentally responsible behaviors both at work and in their daily lives.
Empowering Partners Across the Supply Chain
No single company can achieve sustainability in logistics on its own.
Creating meaningful impact requires collaboration across the entire value chain.
FedEx helps customers manage logistics operations in more efficient and environmentally responsible ways through digital solutions such as FedEx Ship Manager™ Lite and online import-export declaration tools, which reduce paper consumption by enabling paperless processes.
By improving visibility and providing actionable data insights, we also help customers make more informed decisions regarding transportation routes, resource allocation, and emissions management.
Engaging Communities and Future Generations
Our commitment to sustainability extends well beyond business operations.
For many years, FedEx has supported initiatives including tree planting, beach cleanups, and community volunteer programs.
Following the successful launch of the "Protecting One Kilometer of a River Course" initiative with the All-China Environment Federation (ACEF) in 2025, we are actively expanding river ecosystem conservation and public engagement efforts to eight major cities throughout 2026, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi"an, Qingdao, Xiamen, Shenyang, and Hefei.
We are equally committed to cultivating future sustainability leaders.
Working alongside ACEF, we organize the University Student-led Environmental Entrepreneurship Challenge, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The program has already attracted nearly 150 projects from more than 100 universities across China.
Through these efforts, we aim not only to address today"s environmental issues but also to inspire a new generation of innovators with a strong commitment to sustainability.
In my view, sustainability should never exist merely as a target in a report or a slogan in a presentation. It must be embedded in operational decisions, employee behaviors, and customer partnerships.
Our goal is to foster a mindset shift from compliance-driven action to purpose-driven action, making sustainability a lasting cultural commitment rather than a regulatory requirement.
Section V: Women"s Leadership
Sina Finance: A strong corporate culture serves as both the foundation for long-term business success and fertile ground for talent development. As the only female leader from the air logistics industry recognized on Fortune China"s 2025 Most Powerful Women in Business list, how has FedEx"s culture shaped your career journey? As President of FedEx China, how do you plan to further foster an inclusive, diverse, and equitable workplace that empowers more women to grow and succeed?
Poh-Yian Koh: I"ve spent the past 36 years with FedEx, and when I reflect on my career journey, two factors stand out.
The first is a willingness to embrace challenges. The second is FedEx"s enduring culture of openness, inclusion, and continuous development.
The air logistics and aviation industry has historically been male-dominated, which makes the recognition by Fortune China"s 2025 Most Powerful Women all the more meaningful—not just for me personally, but as a testament to what is possible within a truly supportive corporate environment.
In 1994, when China"s logistics industry was still in its early stages, many of my friends and family questioned my decision to build a career here. Looking back, stepping outside my comfort zone proved to be one of the best decisions I ever made.
Throughout my career at FedEx, I have worked across engineering, ground operations, and management functions. Each transition broadened my perspective, strengthened my capabilities, and helped shape my leadership approach.
When I became President of FedEx China in 2024, the business environment was undergoing significant transformation. Global trade was being reshaped, digital technologies were accelerating change across the logistics sector, and FedEx itself was advancing an important strategic evolution.
These experiences reinforced a simple belief: leadership is not only about managing operations. It is about helping teams discover opportunities amid uncertainty, remain resilient during periods of change, and create long-term value.
At the center of this philosophy is FedEx"s People-Service-Profit (P-S-P) culture.
We firmly believe that by investing in our people, empowering them to grow, and creating meaningful development opportunities, they will deliver outstanding service to customers and drive sustainable business success.
This philosophy has helped FedEx cultivate a workplace where diversity, equity, and inclusion are deeply embedded in the culture.
Through mentorship programs, leadership development initiatives, and structured career pathways, we encourage women to pursue leadership roles, including in traditionally male-dominated sectors such as aviation, engineering, and operations.
Today, women hold more than 55% of management and professional positions at FedEx China.
That figure represents far more than a metric. It reflects an environment where talent, capability, and performance determine opportunity.
As President of FedEx China, I am committed to further strengthening this culture and creating even more opportunities for our people to grow.
Accelerating Capability Development
Last year, we launched the Digital Camp initiative to help frontline team members build digital literacy and foundational coding capabilities. Equipping our workforce with these skills ensures that our female professionals are highly competitive and ready to lead as logistics becomes increasingly tech-driven.
We have also expanded English-language development programs to help employees combine technical expertise with a global mindset.
Expanding Career Pathways
As our business becomes increasingly interconnected, we want more employees in China to participate in global initiatives, collaborate across markets, and develop leadership capabilities through international exposure and real-world experience.
I often tell my team that growth is rarely linear. Every challenge presents an opportunity either to achieve a goal or to gain valuable experience. Both outcomes move you forward.
I recall a frontline courier who initially believed that programming had little relevance to his role and was hesitant to join our Digital Camp program. Through persistence and continuous learning, he ultimately applied digital tools to significantly improve his daily work. Experiences like these remind me that people are often capable of far more than they imagine.
As leaders, one of our most important responsibilities is to create an environment where curiosity is encouraged, experimentation is welcomed, and learning from setbacks is viewed as a pathway to growth. When individuals continue to expand their potential, organizations naturally grow alongside them.
Looking ahead, we will continue strengthening our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts while creating meaningful opportunities for women, frontline employees, and emerging talent. With more than 10,000 team members across China, FedEx remains committed to fostering a workplace where people can thrive, grow, and contribute to the future of our business. Ultimately, our success will be defined not only by the packages we deliver, but by the people we empower.
