DHL Exel Supply Chain is a division of international courier DHL International GmbH, according to DHL's Web site.

'We chose Hong Kong over other potential sites in the region because it offers an efficient import structure, a robust transportation and logistics infrastructure, and a deep talent pool of supply-chain professionals' said Steve Leonard, EMC president, Asia Pacific and Japan, in a statement. "Easy access to South China where some of our key customers and OEM partners are located was also a major advantage for Hong Kong.'

Denis Yip, EMC president, Greater China, said those OEM partners include Huawei Electronics, ZTE, and Inspur (formerly known as Langchao). "Many of these companies have manufacturing facilities in Shenzhen," said Yip at the event. "This new supply hub means they don't have to fly in [products]--they can offload via truck in [Hong Kong's] Tsuen Wan [district]."

"Initially, the focus of this center will be to meet the needs of EMC customers and partners in Greater China," said EMC. "The APJ SCLC is expected to be the primary supply chain and logistics hub for EMC's midrange products in Asia Pacific and Japan."

The plan is to expand the APJ SCLC during the second half of 2007, said the firm, to "provide a higher level of reconfiguration and integration services for EMC midrange products."