Monthly Archive July 2019

HONG KONG, July 3, 2019 – Chevalier AOC Freight Express Holdings Limited ( Chevalier AOC ) has become the first Hong Kong based global logistics service provider to be awarded the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma), accredited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), in recognition of its capabilities in the transportation and handling of pharmaceutical products that require stringent temperature control in accordance with international standards.

Temperature control is crucial in cold chain management. Based on the current state of the industry, pharmaceutical companies estimate that an amount of up to 30% of high-value and life-saving pharmaceutical products are damaged due to logistics issues. Regulators such as European Council and US Food and Drug Administration, and international organizations including World Health Organization, International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations, as well as IATA, also expressed grave concerns over this problem.

The quality of pharmaceutical products can be affected by numerous external factors during the global distribution process. For instance, there are risks arising from thermal packaging, temperature control in aircraft cabin, airport tarmac operation, availability of proper cold rooms, customs regulations, knowledge and emergency handling skills of staff towards pharmaceuticals etc. Therefore, quality planning and management during the distribution process of pharmaceutical products is particularly critical. Currently, 70% of international pharmaceutical products transportation rests with airlines operation and many operating carriers do not offer pharmaceutical service in their entire flight network, and it is unfortunate that not all airlines are capable of handling pharmaceutical products.

In view of the situation in the industry, IATA created the Center of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma) Certification Programme with the aim to help the industry build a network of certified pharmaceutical trade lanes which are globally consistent and recognized in pharmaceutical handling excellence. The certification ensures the best standards in terms of facilities, equipment, operations and staff qualifications are applied in the transportation of sensitive pharmaceutical products with guidelines prescribed by pharmaceutical manufacturers. CEIV Pharma meets, and in some cases exceeds, existing international global standards and guidelines. These include European Union Good Distribution Practice and World Health Organization (Annex 5) Good Distribution Practices for Pharmaceutical Products.

Chevalier AOC is honoured to become the first Hong Kong based global logistics service provider to be awarded the IATA CEIV Pharma certification. The branded AOC Pharma Cold Logistic is dedicated to providing comprehensive cold chain packaging and handling solutions to customers and has the expertise to handle temperature-sensitive freight shipments. Its at door pick and pack service enables commencement of cold chain management at shipper’s door. For unique pharmaceutical and clinical trial products which require tailor-made solutions, it can provide consultation services to meet customers’ stringent requirements with international compliance.

With 24-hour support and round-the-clock supervision of its Competence Center, AOC Pharma Cold Chain Logistic offers comprehensive and efficient management in the transportation of pharmaceutical products. For end-to-end pharmaceutical shipments, it delivers the highest standards of cold chain logistics services with its expertise, experience, commitment and passion to cater to customers’ needs.