August 16 - The Australian-based Toll Group has launched a fully-owned and operated contract logistics operation in China after its integration into the Toll Global Logistics division.

The group has completed its acquisition of joint-venture partner ST-Anda to give the Melbourne-based forwarder its own brand in the China market.

Toll has had operations in China through its controlling interest in ST-Anda since 1996. The group completed its acquisition of the joint venture earlier this year, and now fully operates a network of 23 logistics facilities with over 20 distribution centres, delivering to more than 1,600 cities across the country. Toll Global Logistics will have its Greater China regional headquarters in Shanghai.

The group's Perth-based Toll Project Services division specialises in project management and execution of moving difficult oversize, overweight and dangerous cargo. Main capabilities include turnkey logistics management, engineering consultancy, design assistance, equipment erection, ultra haulage, skidding, ship and barge operations, ballast engineering and hazardous cargo.