DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Shipping company Aramex says it is setting up a joint venture with China’s Sinotrans Air Transportation Development Company to strengthen the Mideast firm’s presence in Asia.

Dubai-based Aramex said Sunday it and its Chinese partner, also known as Sinoair, will each own half of the new venture.

Aramex says the joint venture will offer Chinese customers international express shipping as well as other freight, logistics and warehousing services.

It says the venture’s Shanghai office is already staffed. Plans call for additional offices in Beijing, Guangzhou and other Chinese cities.

Financial details weren’t disclosed.