HONG KONG, Nov. 5 (Xinhuanet) -- Many Pearl River Delta manufacturers can take better advantage of logistics services thatwill improve the reliability of the supply chain and aid efficiency, and reduce costs, according to a study commissioned byDHL Express, one of the world's leading express and logistics company.

    According to the study conducted by a team from the Chinese University of Hong Kong's Center of Cyber Logistics, Hong Kong retains considerable strength as a competitive hub, including unmatched connectivity, and high levels of transparency and efficiency in customs and excise procedures.

    "The study shows that much needs to be done to build the confidence of customers to capture the advantages that can be obtained from better use of specialized and value-adding logisticsservices," said Kelly Yu, general manager of DHL Express Hong Kong.

    The study highlights the need for investment in specialized logistics centers in Hong Kong.

    Professor Cheung Waiman, who leads the research team in an intensive study of 25 companies across five sectors in four Pearl River Delta (PRD) cities, concluded that most manufacturers are either unaware of, or not making optimal use of value- and efficiency-driving logistics services.

    The study found that the cost of transferring consignments through Hong Kong was high in comparison with competitor exit points in the PRD, but the sources of additional cost varied.

    "The study clearly flagged that such a large cost difference could be a source of vulnerability for Hong Kong in future," said Yu.

    "However, there is currently tremendous strength that enables Hong Kong to remain attractive and competitive in spite of these costs. These include superior connectivity and frequencies both inAsia and globally, as well as immense trust in the efficiency and simplicity of Hong Kong's customs processes. They also include taxmanagement advantages that arise from establishing an 'importer ofrecord' in Hong Kong," Yu said.

    Yu said the findings called for careful attention to costs in Hong Kong, but perhaps more importantly called for enhanced focus on specialized and value-adding logistics services. Enditem