THE WHAT? Alibaba-owned Cainiao Smart Logistics Network has launched a direct cargo air route between Singapore and Hainan Island as demand for luxury goods in China booms, according to a report published by Bloomberg.

THE DETAILS The e-commerce behemoth’s logistics arm will ferry prestige cosmetics, handbags and watches between Singapore and the southern Chinese port seven times a week. Possible further flights have been mooted, between Hainan and Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.

THE WHY? Traditionally, Chinese shoppers travelled abroad to purchase high-end goods but with the pandemic grounding most tourists, brands are keen to serve their biggest spenders at home.