Alibaba to build new logistics hub in Belgium

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd has announced a plan to build a logistics hub in Belgium, as part of wider plans to facilitate trade and connectivity.

Alibaba's Cainiao Smart Logistics Network signed a deal on Tuesday with Belgium's Liege Airport to build a 220,000-square-meter logistics hub, at an initial investment of 75 million euros ($84.96 million). The first phase is expected to begin operations in early 2021.

"The arrival of Cainiao reinforces the competitiveness of our airport," said Liege Airport CEO Luc Partoune. "Several Chinese companies are already here. Other companies will be attracted by the presence of Cainiao and the opportunity for e-commerce growth between Europe and China."