The international express courier company TNT has opened a new depot in Hong Kong and plans further expansion to meet surging demand for distribution and logistics services in the region.

The new 1,860 square-metre facility at Kwai Fong is within easy reach of the company's main operations hub at Hong Kong International Airport, the world's busiest in terms of cargo throughput.

"As a market leader it is crucial that we maintain a presence in areas of expected growth in order to provide the very best service," TNT managing director Bryan Chan said. "We are also looking are more depots in the near future."

The Amsterdam-based group recorded a 30 per cent increase in business in Hong Kong last year and expects the strong growth to continue.

"When China joins the World Trade Organisation there will be a greater trans-shipment of goods in and out of China via Hong Kong," TNT business development director Hans Olijve said. "The frequent flights out of Hong Kong to all destinations worldwide, along with the high quality of ancillary services available here, enable Hong Kong to strengthen this gateway role."

Worldwide, TNT carries 193 million consignments annually with a fleet of 61 aircraft and 19,000 vehicles.