July 23, 2014 China Logistics OVERWEIGHT (New) Analysts On a structural uptrend Osbert TK Tang, CFA . High cost of logistics in China will create demand for (86) 21-5096 8370 China
[email protected] sophisticated value-added logistics services, providing numerous opportunities to industry players. Tracy Liu (86) 21 5096 8367 . Structural, rather than cyclical, drivers support the uptrend
[email protected] in China’s logistics sector over the long term. Top pick still Sinotrans; China Merchants (CM) is an alternative play. Kerry Logistics Network’s (KLN) growth is slow and valuations stretched, initiate at HOLD. Numerous opportunities for logistics players China’s logistics costs reached 17.9% of GDP in FY13, 9.5ppt higher than the average for developed countries such as the US, Japan SECTOR RESEARCH | RESEARCH SECTOR and Germany. We expect a continued drive to lower logistics costs, advancement of technology and the improvement of infrastructure networks to further stimulate demand for sophisticated logistics services, translating into numerous business opportunities for experienced logistics providers with solid service know-how. Seven drivers positive for sector outlook We see seven key drivers underpinning solid logistics demand in China: 1) growth in e-commerce volume, driven by online shopping and “Haitao” demand; 2) manufacturers relocating production, stimulating supply chain services; 3) increase in enterprise outsourcing accelerating third-party logistics (3PL); 4) rise in demand for value-added services translating into more profit opportunities; 5) upgrading of logistics facilities enhancing unit revenue; 6) expansion of Chinese enterprises overseas generating cross-border logistics demand; and 7) more favourable government policies creating a more positive operating environment.