Worldwide shipping firm DHL has signed an agreement to research and develop logistics and parcel delivery solutions in China.

DHL will work with the China Development Institute to improve the areas of Urban Logistics, Sustainable Supply Chain, Auto ID Application and Supply Chain Optimisation - for administrative and business organisations.

Petra Kiwitt, head of DHL Solutions and Innovations, said: "Since both partners share the vision to improve the logistics infrastructure in China, the partnership will open up many opportunities."

She added it will also "serve as a catalyst for the development of innovative logistics solutions in China."

DHL hopes the move will boost its service offering in the logistics and parcel delivery sector in the country, while also reducing its environmental impact.

Professor Fan Gang said his China Development Institute is proud to work with DHL, citing its "impressive" track record in its climate change protection programme.