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ELL Environmental Holdings Limited Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement 2009

Mar 11, 2009

49895_rns_2009-03-11_f8ef89d7-de37-4327-bf72-539790e1a799.pdf

Proxy Solicitation & Information Statement

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THIS CIRCULAR IS IMPORTANT AND REQUIRES YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION

If you are in any doubt as to any aspect of this circular or as to the action to be taken, you should consult a licensed securities dealer, bank manager, solicitor, professional accountant or other professional adviser.

If you have sold or transferred all your shares in Sinotrans Limited (the ‘‘Company’’), you should at once hand this circular to the purchaser or transferee or to the bank, stockbroker or other agent through whom the sale or transfer was effected for transmission to the purchaser or transferee.

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited take no responsibility for the contents of this circular, make no representation as to its accuracy or completeness and expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this circular.

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(A joint stock limited company incorporated in the People’s Republic of China with limited liability)

(Stock Code: 0598)

CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

Independent financial adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders

Optima Capital Limited

A letter of recommendation from the Independent Board Committee is set out on page 10 of this circular and a letter of recommendation from Optima Capital Limited, the independent financial adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders is set out on pages 11 to 22 of this circular.

A notice convening the extraordinary general meeting (the ‘‘EGM’’) of Sinotrans Limited to be held at No. 1 Meeting Room, 12th Floor, Sinotrans Plaza A, A43, Xizhimen Beidajie, Haidian District, Beijing, the People’s Republic of China 100044 on Thursday, 30 April 2009 at 10: 00 a.m. is set out on pages 33 to 34 of this circular.

A form of proxy for use at the EGM is enclosed with this circular. If you do not intend to attend the EGM, you are requested to complete the form of proxy in accordance with the instructions printed thereon and return it to registered office of the Company at Sinotrans Plaza A, A43, Xizhimen Beidajie, Haidian District, Beijing, the People’s Republic of China 100044 as soon as possible and in any event not less than twenty-four (24) hours before the time appointed for holding the EGM. Completion and return of the form of proxy will not preclude you from attending and voting in person at the EGM or any adjournment of it, if you so wish.

12 March 2009

CONTENTS

Page
DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
LETTER FROM THE BOARD
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
NON-EXEMPT CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS
. . . . . . . . . .
4
LISTING RULES COMPLIANCE IN RESPECT OF
THE NON-EXEMPT CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS . . . 8
REASONS FOR AND BENEFITS OF ENTERING INTO
THE NON-EXEMPT CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS . . . 8
INFORMATION ON THE GROUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
RECOMMENDATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
FURTHER INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
APPENDIX — GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
NOTICE OF EGM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

– i –

DEFINITIONS

In this circular, unless the context otherwise requires, the following expressions have the following meanings:

  • ‘‘Announcement’’ an announcement dated 24 February 2009 of the Company with regard to, among other things, the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions

  • ‘‘associates’’ has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Listing Rules ‘‘Board’’ the board of Directors

  • ‘‘Company’’ Sinotrans Limited, a company incorporated in the People’s Republic of China with limited liability, the shares of which are listed on the Stock Exchange

  • ‘‘Connected Joint 東海運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd*) and Cotecna Venture Partner(s)’’ Inspection S.A., each being a joint venture partner of the Group or an associate of a joint venture partner of the Group and a connected person of the Company

  • ‘‘Connected Non 江蘇時運國際貨運有限公司 (Jiangsu Fortunate International Wholly-Owned Freight Co., Ltd.*), being a non wholly-owned subsidiary of Company’’ the Company and a connected person of the Company

  • ‘‘Director(s)’’ the director(s) of the Company

  • ‘‘Domestic Share(s)’’ domestic invested share(s) of RMB1.00 each in the share capital of the Company

  • ‘‘EGM’’ the extraordinary general meeting of the Company to be convened on Thursday, 30 April 2009 at 10: 00 a.m. for the purposes of passing the relevant resolutions for approving the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions

  • ‘‘Group’’ the Company and its subsidiaries

  • ‘‘H Share(s)’’ overseas listed foreign invested share(s) of RMB1.00 each in the share capital of the Company

  • ‘‘IFA’’ Optima Capital Limited, a corporation licensed to carry on type 1 (dealing in securities), type 4 (advising on securities) and type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activities under the SFO and the independent financial adviser to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions and the New Caps

– 1 –

DEFINITIONS

  • ‘‘Independent Board a board committee comprising of the independent non-executive Committee’’ Directors of the Company to be constituted to make recommendations to the Independent Shareholders in respect of the New Caps

  • ‘‘Independent Shareholders other than the Connected Joint Venture Partners Shareholders’’ and the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company and their respective associates

  • ‘‘Latest Practicable 10 March 2009, being the latest practicable date prior to the Date’’ printing of this circular for ascertaining certain information contained herein

  • ‘‘Listing Rules’’ the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on the Stock Exchange

  • ‘‘New Cap(s)’’ the maximum value of Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions for each of the three years ending 31 December 2011 as set out in this circular

  • ‘‘Non-exempt the continuing connected transactions between the Group and Continuing (a) Connected Joint Venture Partners and (b) the Connected Non Connected Wholly-Owned Company, which are subject to Independent Transactions’’ Shareholders’ approval, further details of which are set out in the section headed ‘‘Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transaction’’ in this circular

  • ‘‘PRC’’ the People’s Republic of China ‘‘RMB’’ Renminbi, the lawful currency of the PRC

  • ‘‘SFO’’ the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap.571 of the Laws of Hong Kong)

  • ‘‘Share(s)’’ H Share(s) and Domestic Share(s) ‘‘Shareholder(s)’’ holder(s) of Shares of the Company

  • ‘‘Sinotrans Group China National Foreign Trade Transportation (Group) Company’’ Corporation (中國對外貿易運輸集團總公司), the controlling shareholder of the Company owning approximately 57.93% interest in the Company

  • ‘‘Stock Exchange’’ The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited

  • ‘‘substantial has the meaning ascribed thereto in the Listing Rules shareholder’’

  • for the purpose of identification only

– 2 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

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(A joint stock limited company incorporated in the People’s Republic of China with limited liability)

(Stock Code: 0598)

Executive Directors: Zhao Huxiang Zhang Jianwei Tao Suyun Li Jianzhang

Non-executive Directors: Yang Yuntao Liu Jinghua Jerry Hsu Peter Landsiedel

Independent Non-executive Directors: Sun Shuyi Lu Zhengfei Miao Yuexin

Registered Office and Headquarters: Sinotrans Plaza A43, Xizhimen Beidajie Beijing People’s Republic of China 100044

Principal Place of Business in Hong Kong: 21st Floor, Great Eagle Centre 23 Harbour Road Wanchai Hong Kong

12 March 2009

To the Shareholders

Dear Sir or Madam,

CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

INTRODUCTION

Reference is made to the Announcement in relation to certain business relationships with (a) certain joint venture partners of the Group; and (b) a non wholly-owned company of the Company, which constitute continuing connected transactions of the Company. The Directors expect such business relationships to continue and the Company has entered into agreements for the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions.

– 3 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

The purpose of this circular is (i) to provide you with further information in relation to the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions; (ii) to set out the opinions and recommendations of the Independent Board Committee and IFA; and (iii) to give you notice of the EGM at which the resolutions set out therein will be proposed. The EGM will be held on Thursday, 30 April 2009 at 10: 00 a.m. for the purpose of, among others, obtaining the approval from the Independent Shareholders in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions by way of poll. As the Connected Joint Venture Partners and the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company are parties to different Nonexempt Continuing Connected Transactions, they are required under the Listing Rules to abstain from voting on the single resolution to be proposed to approve all of the Nonexempt Continuing Connected Transactions subject to the New Caps of the EGM.

NON-EXEMPT CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

Set out below is a summary of the Non-Exempt Continuing Connected Transactions which require Independent Shareholders’ approval:

A. Transactions with Connected Joint Venture Partners

The Group has business relationships with certain joint venture partners of the Group and its associates which constitute continuing connected transactions. The Group intends to continue its business relationships with 東海運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd.*) and Cotecna Inspection S.A.. Each of the above Connected Joint Venture Partners are connected persons of the Company solely by reason that each of them is a substantial shareholder or an associate of a substantial shareholder of certain non-wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company, further particulars relating to which are included in the notes to the table below. To the best of the Directors’ knowledge, information and belief having made all reasonable enquiries, none of the Connected Joint Venture Partners are connected with each other.

Provision and receipt of transportation and logistics services

To comply with the requirements of the Listing Rules, the Company has on 24 February 2009 entered into a master services agreement with each of the following Connected Joint Venture Partners, namely, (i) 東海運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd.*) for the provision and receipt of transportation and logistics services (including freight forwarding services, shipping agency, storage and terminal services); and (ii) Cotecna Inspection S.A. for the provision of commodity and marine inspections and surveys services. The term of the master services agreement with each of the above Connected Joint Venture Partners is for a term of 3 years commencing on 1 January 2009 and ending on 31 December 2011. The master services agreements provide that services must be charged at the market price charged by independent third parties on normal commercial terms.

The Directors are of the view that the terms of the master services agreements signed by the relevant Connected Joint Venture Partners are fair and reasonable so far as the Shareholders are concerned and in the interest of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole.

– 4 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

The table below sets out the turnover/expenses of the Group attributable to the transactions with each of the following Connected Joint Venture Partners and its associates during 2006, 2007 and the six months ended 30 June 2008 and the maximum cap for the value of transportation and logistic services to be provided and received by the Group respectively (in respect of which Independent Shareholders’ approval is proposed to be sought at the EGM) with each of the following Connected Joint Venture Partners and its associates for the years 2009, 2010 and 2011:

東海運株式會社
(Azuma Shipping
Co., Ltd*)
(Notes 2, 3 & 5)
Provision of
transportation and
logistics services
Receipt of
transportation and
logistics services
Total
Cotecna Inspection
S.A. (Notes 2,
4 & 5)
Provision of commodity
and marine
inspections and
surveys services
Receipt of commodity
and marine
inspections and
surveys services
Total
2006

2007

Amount
Six months
ended
30 June
2008
40,000
33,480,000
(RMB)
2009 Cap
(Note 1)
250,000
201,000,000
2010 Cap
(Note 1)
360,000
302,000,000
2011 Cap
(Note 1)
530,000
452,000,000
33,520,000 201,250,000 302,360,000 452,530,000
2,780,000
29,360,000
8,340,000
58,000,000
87,000,000
130,000,000
2,780,000 29,360,000 8,340,000 58,000,000 87,000,000 130,000,000

Notes:

  1. These figures represent the estimated maximum cap in respect of transactions of the relevant type which the Group will undertake during the relevant financial years in respect of which independent shareholders’ approval is proposed to be sought at the EGM. The actual amount of transaction may be different. Taking into account the bases for the determination of the caps as detailed below, the Board considers that the New Caps set out above are fair and reasonable.

  2. The relevant estimates have been determined by reference to (i) the historical value of the transactions with the Connected Joint Venture Partners and their associates for the years 2006, 2007 and the six months ended 30 June 2008; (ii) seasonal fluctuation of the Group’s business that the transaction amounts in the second half of the year is usually higher than that recorded in the first half of the year; and (iii) the plans and requirements of the Group, after allowing a buffer for the inherent volatility of business in the transportation and logistics services industry and perceived increase in demand for the Group’s services generally with the continued economic growth of the PRC and the implementation of the Group’s strategy to expand its domestic operations and overseas network and, as customers seek the services of the more established and financially sound transportation and logistics services providers such as the Group to manage perceived risks associated with the current global economic downturn.

– 5 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

  1. 東海運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd.) is a substantial shareholder of a subsidiary of the Company, owning 30% interest in such subsidiary. Based on the information provided to the Company by 東海運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd.), it is engaged in the business of provision of transportation and logistic services. It became a connected person of the Company as a result of the Company’s acquisition of 山東青島中外運國際物流有限公司 (Sinotrans Shandong Tsingdao International Logistics Co. Ltd.) from Sinotrans Group Company which took effect on 1 January 2008. Continuing connected transactions with 東海 運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd.) were not previously announced.

  2. Cotecna Inspection S.A. is a substantial shareholder of a subsidiary of the Company, owning 49% interest in such subsidiary. Based on the information provided to the Company by Cotecna Inspection S.A., it is engaged in the business of commodity and marine inspections and surveys. Continuing connected transaction with Cotecna Inspection S.A. were previously exempted from announcement, reporting and independent shareholders’ approval requirements.

  3. Payment for the provision and receipt of the above services will be made by cash in accordance with the standard terms of sale or provision of services of the provider from time to time.

B. Transactions with Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company

The Group has also received and provided transportation and logistics services with Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company, 江蘇時運國際貨運有限公司 (Jiangsu Fortunate International Freight Co., Ltd.*), which is a subsidiary of the Company and associate of substantial shareholders of other subsidiaries of the Company. The Group intends to continue such business relationships with the Connected Non WhollyOwned Company.

To comply with the requirements of the Listing Rules, the Company has on 24 February 2009 entered into a master services agreement with 江蘇時運國際貨運有限 公司 (Jiangsu Fortunate International Freight Co., Ltd.*) for the provision and receipt of the respective transportation and logistics services (including freight forwarding services, express services, shipping agency, storage and terminal services), to replace the master services agreement (which was the subject of the Company’s announcement and circular dated 26 January 2006 and 3 March 2006 respectively) that covered the period up to 31 December 2008. The term of the master services agreement is for a period of three years commencing on 1 January 2009 and ending on 31 December 2011. The master services agreement provide that services must be charged at the market price charged by independent third parties on normal commercial terms.

The Directors are of the view that the terms of the master services agreement signed by the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company is fair and reasonable so far as the Shareholders are concerned and in the interest of the Company and its Shareholders as a whole.

The table below sets out the turnover/expenses of the Group attributable to the transactions with the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company and its associates during 2006, 2007 and the six months ended 30 June 2008 and the maximum cap for the value of transportation and logistic services to be provided and received by the Group

– 6 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

respectively (in respect of which Independent Shareholders’ approval is proposed to be sought at the EGM) with the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company and its associates for the years 2009, 2010 and 2011:

江蘇時運國際貨運有限公司
(Jiangsu Fortunate
International Freight Co.,
Ltd.*)(Notes 2, 3 & 4)
Provision of transportation
and logistics services
Receipt of transportation
and logistics services
Total
2006
2,160,000
180,000
2,340,000
2007
1,600,000
860,000
2,450,000
Amount
Six months
ended 30
June 2008
16,440,000
590,000
17,030,000
(RMB)
2009 Cap
(Note 1)
99,000,000
3,600,000
102,600,000
2010 Cap
(Note 1)
150,000,000
5,400,000
155,400,000
2011 Cap
(Note 1)
222,000,000
8,100,000
230,100,000

Notes:

  1. These are maximum cap in respect of each specified type of transaction of the Group during the relevant financial years which the Company proposes to impose for the purposes of Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules. The actual amount of transaction may be different. Taking into account the bases for the determination of the caps as detailed below, the Company considers that the New Caps set out above are fair and reasonable.

  2. As the above company is a subsidiary of the Company, the relevant estimated maximum transaction value have been determined with reference to (i) the historical value of the transactions with the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company and its associates for the years 2006, 2007 and the six months ended 30 June 2008; (ii) seasonal fluctuation of the Group’s business that the transaction amounts in the second half of the year is usually higher than that recorded in the first half of the year; and (iii) the plans and requirements of the Group, after allowing a buffer for the inherent volatility of business in the transportation and logistics services industry and perceived increase in demand for the Group’s services generally with the continued economic growth of the PRC and the implementation of the Group’s strategy to expand its domestic operations and overseas network and, as customers seek the services of the more established and financially sound transportation and logistics services providers such as the Group to manage perceived risks associated with the current global economic downturn.

  3. 江蘇時運國際貨運有限公司 (Jiangsu Fortunate International Freight Co., Ltd.*) is an associate of a substantial shareholder of a subsidiary of the Company and is an indirect non-wholly owned subsidiary which is 70% owned by the Company.

  4. Payment for the provision and receipt of the above services will be made by cash in accordance with the standard terms of sale or provision of services of the provider from time to time.

– 7 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

LISTING RULES COMPLIANCE IN RESPECT OF THE NON-EXEMPT CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

Details of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions will be included in the published annual reports of the Company for each of the three financial years ending 31 December 2011. The requirements as regards annual review of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions under Rules 14A.37 to 14A.40 of the Listing Rules will be complied with.

In the event that any of the caps in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions is exceeded or any transaction under the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions is renewed or there is a material change to the terms of the relevant transactions under the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions, the Company will comply with the provisions of Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules, as applicable.

REASONS FOR AND BENEFITS OF ENTERING INTO THE NON-EXEMPT CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

Certain Continuing Connected Transactions have been taking place since the Company became listed on the Stock Exchange in the year 2003 and are essential for the continued operation and growth of the business of the Group. Some of the transportation and logistic services required by the Group will enable the Group to provide end-to-end transportation and logistics services to customers covering locations in which the Group does not have operations. In addition, the Group is also able to provide services to the Connected Joint Venture Partners who are not in the same line of business or who do not operate in the areas in which the Group has its core operations. Accordingly, the Directors consider that the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions are in the interest of and are beneficial to the Group.

INFORMATION ON THE GROUP

The Group is principally engaged in the business of freight forwarding, express services, shipping agency services, storage and terminal services, marine transportation and trucking services. The Group is also engaged in the business of provision of inspections and survey services.

RECOMMENDATION

Your attention is drawn to the letter from the Independent Board Committee as set out on page 10 of this circular which contains its recommendation to the Independent Shareholders in respect of the ordinary resolution set out in the notice of EGM set out on pages 33 to 34 of this circular to approve the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions to be subject to the New Caps.

– 8 –

LETTER FROM THE BOARD

The advice of the IFA to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders as to whether the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions and the New Caps are fair and reasonable and in the interest of the Company and its Independent Shareholders as a whole is set out on pages 11 to 22 of this circular.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Your attention is drawn to the additional information set out in the Appendix to this circular.

Yours faithfully, By order of the Board of Sinotrans Limited Gao Wei Company Secretary

  • for the purpose of identification only

– 9 –

LETTER FROM THE INDEPENDENT BOARD COMMITTEE

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(A joint stock limited company incorporated in the People’s Republic of China with limited liability)

(Stock Code: 0598)

12 March 2009

To the Independent Shareholders

Dear Sir or Madam,

CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

We have been appointed as members of the Independent Board Committee to advise the Independent Shareholders of Sinotrans Limited in respect of the resolution to approve the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions subject to the New Caps, details of which are set out in the ‘‘Letter from the Board’’ contained in the circular of the Company (the ‘‘Circular’’) of which this letter forms part. Unless the context otherwise requires, terms defined in the Circular shall have the same meanings when used in this letter.

Your attention is drawn to the ‘‘Letter from the Board’’, the advice of the IFA in its capacity as the IFA to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in respect of whether (i) the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions are on normal commercial terms, in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Group, fair and reasonable and in the interest of the Company and its Independent Shareholders as a whole; and (ii) the New Caps are fair and reasonable so far as the Company and the Independent Shareholders are concerned, as set out in the ‘‘Letter from Optima Capital Limited’’ as well as other additional information set out in other parts of the Circular.

Having taken into account the advice of, and the principal factors and reasons considered by the IFA in relation thereto as stated in its letter, we consider the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions and the New Caps to be fair and reasonable and are in the interests of the Company and the Independent Shareholders as a whole. Accordingly, we recommend the Independent Shareholders to vote in favour of the ordinary resolutions to be proposed at the EGM in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions.

Yours faithfully, Independent Board Committee Sun Shuyi Lu Zhengfei Miao Yuexin

Independent Non-executive Directors

– 10 –

LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

The following is the letter of advice from Optima Capital Limited to the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders, which has been prepared for the purpose of inclusion in this circular.

Unit 3618, 36th Floor Bank of America Tower 12 Harcourt Road Central Hong Kong

12 March 2009

  • To: the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders

Dear Sir or Madam,

CONTINUING CONNECTED TRANSACTIONS

INTRODUCTION

We refer to our appointment as the independent financial adviser to advise the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders in respect of the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions (including the New Caps) between the Company and each of (i) 東海運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd) (‘‘Azuma’’); (ii) Cotecna Inspection S.A. (‘‘Cotecna’’); and (iii) 江蘇時運國際貨運有限公司 (Jiangsu Fortunate International Freight Co., Ltd.) (‘‘Jiangsu Fortunate’’) (collectively, the ‘‘Connected Persons’’) pursuant to the respective master services agreements entered into between the Company and each of the Connected Persons dated 24 February 2009 for a term of three years from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2011, details of which are set out in the letter (the ‘‘Letter’’) from the Board contained in the circular of the Company dated 12 March 2009 (the ‘‘Circular’’) of which this letter forms part. Capitalised terms used in this letter shall have the same meanings as defined in the Circular unless otherwise requires.

As at the Latest Practicable Date, (i) Azuma had a 30% interest in 山東青島中外運國 際物流有限公司 (Sinotrans Shandong Tsingdao International Logistics Co. Ltd.), which became a non wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company following the Company’s acquisition of 山東青島中外運國際物流有限公司 (Sinotrans Shandong Tsingdao International Logistics Co. Ltd.) from Sinotrans Group Company, being the controlling Shareholder of the Company owning approximately 57.93% interest in the Company, took effect on 1 January 2008; (ii) Cotecna is a substantial shareholder of, and holding 49% interest in, Sinoswiss Inspection Co., Ltd. which is a non wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company; and (iii) Jiangsu Fortunate, an indirect non-wholly owned subsidiary which is 70% owned by the Company, is an associate of a substantial shareholder of a subsidiary of the Company.

– 11 –

LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

As set out in the Letter, the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions (including the New Caps) are subject to the approval by the Independent Shareholders at the EGM and as Azuma, Cotecna and Jiangsu Fortunate are parties to the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions, they are required under the Listing Rules to abstain from voting on the single resolution to be proposed to approve all of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions subject to the New Caps at the EGM.

The Independent Board Committee comprising Sun Shuyi, Lu Zhengfei and Miao Yuexin, being all independent non-executive Directors, has been established to advise the Independent Shareholders in respect of the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions and the New Caps. In our capacity as the independent financial adviser of the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders, our role is to provide the Independent Board Committee and the Independent Shareholders with an independent opinion as to whether (i) the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions are on normal commercial terms, in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Group, fair and reasonable and in the interests of the Company and the Independent Shareholders as a whole; and (ii) the New Caps are fair and reasonable so far as the Company and the Independent Shareholders are concerned.

In formulating our opinion, we have relied on the information and facts supplied, and the opinions expressed, by the executive Directors and management of the Company and have assumed that the information and facts provided and opinions expressed to us are true, accurate and complete in all material aspects at the time they were made and up to the date of the EGM. We have also sought and received confirmation from the executive Directors that no material facts have been omitted from the information supplied and opinions expressed to us. We have relied on such information and consider that the information we have received is sufficient for us to reach an informed view and have no reason to believe that any material information have been withheld, nor doubt the truth or accuracy of the information provided. We have not, however, conducted any independent investigation into the business and affairs of the Group, nor have we carried out any independent verification of the information supplied.

PRINCIPAL FACTORS AND REASONS CONSIDERED

In considering whether the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions (together with the New Caps) are fair and reasonable so far as the Independent Shareholders are concerned, we have taken into account the principal factors and reasons set out below:

1. Background and reasons for the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions

The Group is principally engaged in the business of freight forwarding, express services, shipping agency, storage and terminal services, marine transportation and trucking services (together, the ‘‘Transportation and Logistics Services’’). The Group is also engaged in the business of provision of inspections and surveys services. The Company’s operation mainly covers coastal areas and other strategic areas in the PRC, such as Guangdong,

– 12 –

LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

Fujian, Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Hubei, Shandong, Tianjin and Liaoning (the ‘‘Core Operation Regions’’), with a comprehensive nationwide service network and overseas agency network.

On 24 February 2009, the Company entered into the master services agreements for a term of three years from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2011 with each of Azuma and Jiangsu Fortunate respectively for the provision and receipt of Transportation and Logistics Services and with Cotecna for the provision of commodity and marine inspections and surveys services (the ‘‘Inspection Services’’) (collectively, the ‘‘New Master Agreements’’).

As stated in the Letter, certain Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions have been taking place since the Company became listed on the Stock Exchange in the year 2003 and are essential for the continued operation and growth of the business of the Group. Some of the Transportation and Logistic Services required by the Group will enable the Group to provide end-to-end Transportation and Logistics Services to customers covering locations in which the Group does not have operations. In addition, the Group is also able to provide services to Azuma and Cotecna who are not in the same line of business or who do not operate in the areas in which the Group has its core operations. Details of the principal businesses of each of the Connected Persons and the reasons for the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions between the Group and each of the Connected Persons are discussed below.

  • 1.1 Transactions with Azuma and Cotecna

Azuma is principally engaged in the business of provision of domestic marine transportation, trucking, shipping services, freight forwarding services and terminal services with operations cover Japan, Korea, China, Russia, Malaysia, United States of America and United Kingdom. Azuma provides freight forwarding services and NVOCC services (namely Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier, details of such services are discussed in the paragraph headed ‘‘Business plan of the Group’’ below) to the Group in Japan and is one of the contracted overseas agent of the Group while the Group provides freight forwarding services to Azuma in the Core-Operation Regions. As discussed with the management of the Company, it is expected that the cooperation with Azuma would enhance the network coverage and the cross-continental transportation services capability of both the Group and Azuma and extend the NVOCC business of the Group to Japan. As advised by the Company, the business relationship between the Group and Azuma commenced since 2008 and given it is expected that the demand of Transportation and Logistics Services between the Group and Azuma will increase in the coming three years, the parties entered into a master service agreement on 24 February 2009 in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions between the Group and Azuma.

Cotecna is principally engaged in the business of commodity and marine inspections and surveys mainly in Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao, Dalian, Guangzhou, Nanjing and Lianyungang, the PRC. As stated in the Letter, the previous transactions between the Group and Cotecna were previously exempted from announcement,

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

reporting and independent shareholders’ approval requirement. However, as it is expected that more Inspection Services will be demanded by Cotecna in the coming three years, the parties entered into a master service agreement on 24 February 2009 in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions between Cotecna and the Group.

  • 1.2 Transactions with Jiangsu Fortunate

Jiangsu Fortunate is principally engaged in the business of provision of sea and air freight forwarding services in Nanjing, the PRC. Jiangsu Fortunate and the Group provide space booking services to each other in Jiangsu. As advised by the Company, it is expected that the cooperation with Jiangsu Fortunate, which operates different trade routes with the Group in Jiangsu, would increase the utilization in capacity of the vessels of both the Group and Jiangsu Fortunate and in turn enhance the cost effectiveness of the Group.

The aforesaid business relationship between Jiangsu Fortunate and the Group has commenced since 2003. Given the existing business services agreement entered into between Jiangsu Fortunate and the Group has expired on 31 December 2008, the parties entered into a new master services agreement to continue the business relationship for a term of another three years from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2011.

We understand from the Company that through the transactions entered into with the Connected Persons in the past, the Group is familiar with the workflow and services of the Connected Persons, which in turn helps to maintain the quality and efficiency of the services provided by the Group to its customers. The Directors also consider the Connected Persons reliable business partners which provide assurance in the quality of services received by the Group. Accordingly, cooperation with the Connected Persons not only enables the Group to optimize its resource allocation but also ensures the quality of services provided, which enhances customers’ satisfaction and the Group’s reputation and facilitates the brand building of the Group. In addition, as described above, the network coverage of the Group and the Connected Persons are complementary to each other and the Directors consider that the entering into of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions enable the Group to leverage on the existing network and resources of the Connected Persons and provide comprehensive Transportation and Logistics Services to its customers outside the Core Operation Regions where the Group does not have presence. This would allow the Group to expand and develop its business operations and network coverage. At the same time, the provision of the Group’s services to the Connected Persons would enhance the Group’s income stream and earning base which is in the interest of the Group.

In light of the above, we concur with the view of the Directors that the entering into the New Master Agreements is in the interest of and are beneficial to the Group and the Independent Shareholders as a whole.

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

2. Terms of the New Master Agreements

Each of the New Master Agreements has a term of three years, commencing from 1 January 2009 and ending on 31 December 2011 and will be conditional upon the approval of the Independent Shareholders at the EGM. Pursuant to the terms of each of the New Master Agreements, the provision and receipt of the Transportation and Logistic Services and the provision of the Inspection Services will be determined with reference to market price charged by independent third parties under normal commercial terms.

In connection with the provision and receipt of the Transportation and Logistics Services and the provision of the Inspection Services, we have reviewed sample copies of invoices issued by the subsidiaries of the Company to the Connected Persons or vice versa and compared them with those issued to or by other independent third parties for similar types of Transportation and Logistics Services and Inspection Services in 2008 and 2009. We noted that the services were charged at market prices comparable to those charged to or by independent third parties under normal commercial terms.

Given that (i) the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions are entered into in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Group; and (ii) the pricing policy of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions was and will continue to be determined on an arm’s length basis with reference to the market price under normal commercial terms, we are of the view that the pricing basis of New Master Agreements are fair and reasonable so far as the Company and the Independent Shareholders are concerned.

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

3. Basis of the New Caps

Transactions with Azuma and Cotecna

As stated in the Letter, the actual transaction amounts for the two years ended 31 December 2006 and 2007 and for the six months ended 30 June 2008 and the New Caps under the respective master services agreements in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions with each of Azuma and Cotecna are as follows:

Amount (RMB) Amount (RMB)
Actual
Actual Actual transaction
transaction transaction amount for six
amount for amount for months ended
2006 2007 30 June 2008 2009 Cap 2010 Cap 2011 Cap
Azuma Provision of 40,000 250,000 360,000 530,000
Transportation and
Logistics Services
Receipt of 33,480,000 201,000,000 302,000,000 452,000,000
Transportation and
Logistics Services
Cotecna Provision of Inspection 2,780,000 29,360,000 8,340,000 58,000,000 87,000,000 130,000,000
Services

In determining the New Caps for the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions between the Company and each of Azuma and Cotecna and their respective associates, the Company has primarily adopted the following bases and assumptions:

  • (i) the historical value of the transactions with each of Azuma and Cotecna and their respective associates for the years 2006, 2007 and the six months ended 30 June 2008;

  • (ii) seasonal fluctuation of the Group’s business that the transaction amounts in the second half of the year is usually higher than that recorded in the first half of the year; and

  • (iii) the plans and requirements of the Group, after allowing a buffer for the inherent volatility of business in the transportation and logistics services industry and perceived increase in demand for the Group’s services generally with the continued economic growth of the PRC and the implementation of the Group’s strategy to expand its domestic operations and overseas network and, as customers seek the services of the more established and financially sound transportation and logistics services providers such as the Group to manage perceived risks associated with the current global economic downturn.

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

Transactions with Jiangsu Fortunate

As stated in the Letter, the actual transaction amounts for years ended 31 December 2006 and 2007 and for the six months ended 30 June 2008 and the New Caps under the master services agreement in respect of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions with Jiangsu Fortunate are as follows:

Amount (RMB) Amount (RMB)
Actual
Actual Actual transaction
transaction transaction amount for six
amount for amount for months ended
2006 2007 30 June 2008 2009 Cap 2010 Cap 2011 Cap
Jiangsu Provision of 2,160,000 1,600,000 16,440,000 99,000,000 150,000,000 222,000,000
Fortunate Transportation and
Logistics Services
Receipt of 180,000 860,000 590,000 3,600,000 5,400,000 8,100,000
Transportation and
Logistics Services

In determining the New Caps for the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions between the Company and Jiangsu Fortunate and its associates, the Company has primarily adopted the following bases and assumptions:

  • (i) historical value of the transactions with Jiangsu Fortunate and its associates for the years 2006 and 2007, and the six months ended 30 June 2008;

  • (ii) seasonal fluctuation of the Group’s business that the transaction amounts in the second half of the year is usually higher than that recorded in the first half of the year; and

  • (iii) the plans and requirements of the Group, after allowing a buffer for the inherent volatility of business in the transportation and logistics services industry and perceived increase in demand for the Group’s services generally with the continued economic growth of the PRC and the implementation of the Group’s strategy to expand its domestic operations and overseas network and, as customers seek the services of the more established and financially sound transportation and logistics services providers such as the Group to manage perceived risks associated with the current global economic downturn.

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

We have discussed with the management of the Company the basis and assumptions underlying the determination of the New Caps and have assessed the fairness and reasonableness of the New Caps based on the following factors:

3.1 Demand for Transportation and Logistics Services

Despite the global economic downturn which has greatly affected the global shipping market in the second half of 2008, the PRC has experienced steady economic growth in the past few years. According to the China Statistical Yearbook 2008 issued by National Bureau of Statistics of China, (i) the gross domestic products of the PRC has been growing in the past few years and increased from approximately RMB13,582.3 billion in 2003 to approximately RMB24,953.0 billion in 2007, representing a compound annual growth rate of approximately 16.4%; (ii) the total consumption expenditures increased from approximately RMB11,059.5 billion in 2006 to approximately RMB12,844.4 billion in 2007, representing an annual growth rate of approximately 16.1%; and (iii) volume of freight traffic in the PRC increased from approximately 15.6 billion tonnes in 2003 to approximately 22.8 billion tones in 2007, representing a compound annual growth rate of approximately 10.0%. In addition, according to the statistics by Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (‘‘MOFCOM’’), the PRC’s total import and export trade has increased from approximately US$851.2 billion in 2003 to approximately US$2,173.8 billion in 2007, representing a compound annual growth rate of approximately 26.4%. Moreover, we have reviewed the Baltic Dry Index (‘‘BDI’’), which reflects the spot rates of the global dry bulk shipping market. The average BDI has increased from 4,510 points in 2004 to 6,390 points in 2008, representing a compound annual growth rate of approximately 9.10%. In May 2008, the BDI reached over 11,000 points. As a result of the recent global economic downturn, the BDI has dropped to about 660 points in early December 2008. In March 2009, the BDI has increased and returned to above 2,000 points.

In view of the increase in gross domestic products of the PRC, the consumption expenditures and volume of freight traffic in the PRC in the past few years, and the factor that the demand of the Group’s Transportation and Logistics Services and Inspection Services are correlated to the total PRC’s import and export trade, the Directors are of the view that despite the downturn of the international economic environment, they continue to be positive about the China’s economic growth and development given the China’s economic growth momentum in the past few years. Based on the above statistics and the volatility of the BDI in the past few months as illustrated above, we consider that it is reasonable for the Company to reserve certain buffer in the New Caps in case the market demand surge as a result of the global recovery of economic conditions in later years given the leading position of the Group in the industry.

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

3.2 Business plan of the Group

As mentioned in the interim report of the Company for the six months ended 30 June 2008, the Group intends to respond to market changes in a pro-active manner by closely monitoring the economic situation and market movements. The Group will continue to enhance optimization of the asset structure by advancing business and resource integration, improving the quality of the operations by extending the services chain and reinforcing the integration and optimization of the traditional core businesses, seeking strong development of the import business with ongoing expansion into new sectors frontiers and enhancing the market competitiveness by fully leveraging the strengths in integrated logistics.

We understand from the management of the Company that in determining the New Caps, the management has considered the growth in various areas of the Group’s business.

In addition to acting as agent for shippers (whereby no issuance of house bills of lading is involved), the Group also operates as a NVOCC (namely Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier), whereby a carrier is authorised to issue house bills of lading in its provision of shipping services, though it does not own or operate vessels. We have discussed with the Directors and are given to understand that the Group anticipated the NVOCC business will continue to grow. As advised by the Directors, the Group’s NVOCC business has been improving with the transaction volume increased from approximately 60,000 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Unit (‘‘TEU’’) in 2005 to approximately 90,000 TEU in 2008 and such growth is expected to continue.

We understand from the management that the Group has established its own domestic business transportation company in 2008 which is principally engaged in providing domestic bulk cargo transportation services. As a result, more supporting services from the service providers in the non-Core Operation Regions would be required. In addition, the Company expected to enhance the Group’s integrated logistics capability by acquiring businesses that complement the service network of the Group or located outside the Core Operation Regions. By expanding the service network of the Group, it is expected that more Transportation and Logistics Services and/or Inspection Services (as the case may be) will be required from the Connected Persons.

In addition, as advised by the Company, it will continue to develop its import freight forwarding business as one of its business objectives. Furthermore, the Company plans to develop a new type of logistics services in respect of chemical products transportation in the year 2009. It is therefore expected that the Transportation and Logistics Services and/or Inspection Services (as the case may be) required from the Connected Persons will increase accordingly.

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

3.3 The historical transaction values of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions

We have reviewed the historical transaction amounts between the Group and the Connected Persons and have discussed with the Directors the historical trends of the transaction amounts between the Group and each of the Connected Persons. We understand from the Directors that the Group’s business is subject to seasonality and in general, winter (including January to March) is a slack season in the freight and logistics industry in the PRC. Therefore, we are given to understand that the transaction amounts in the second half of the year is usually higher than that recorded in the first half of the year. Also, due to the slow down of the growth of global economy in the first half of 2008 which has become more intensified in the second half of 2008, the amount of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions with each of the Connected Persons were lower than expected in the six months ended 30 June 2008. We are also advised by the Company that sudden increases in businesses from Connected Persons may likely to happen with the consolidation of the transportation and logistics industry in view of the economic downturn as more established and financially sound transportation and logistics services providers such as the Group may be perceived to be more reliable business partners. Accordingly, we concur with the Directors that it would be in the interest of the Group to provide reasonable and sufficient buffer as compared to that historical transaction amounts recorded for the year ended 31 December 2007 and for the six months ended 30 June 2008 in determining the New Caps for the year ending 31 December 2009, taken into consideration of the seasonality factor in the first half of 2008 and the economy downturn during such period which has made the business in the first half of 2008 more difficult and resulted in a lower than usual transaction amounts, so as to allow the Group to cater for any surge in demand from the Connected Persons of the Group’s services or from the Group of the Connected Persons’ services due to recovery of the economy which cannot be predicted at the moment. Apart from the above, we have considered the historical trend of the transaction amounts of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions and further reasons and factors as set out below in assessing the fairness and reasonableness of the New Caps for the year ending 31 December 2009 for each of the Connected Persons.

3.3.1 Transactions with Azuma

The business relationship between the Group and Azuma has been established since 2008. As such, there is no reference for the historical growth rate of transactions between Azuma and the Group. The actual transaction for the provision and receipt of Transportation and Logistic Services to and from Azuma amounted to approximately RMB 40,000 and RMB 33,480,000 for the six months ended 30 June 2008. Azuma became a connected person of the Company as a result of the Company’s acquisition of 山東青島中外運國際物流有限公司 (Sinotrans Shandong Tsingdao International Logistics Co. Ltd.*) from Sinotrans Group Company in January 2008. As discussed in the paragraph headed ‘‘Business plan of the Group’’ above, it is anticipated that the NVOCC business of the Group will continue to grow. As Azuma is one of the contracted

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

overseas agents of the Group’s NVOCC business, the Directors believe that the Group may demand more services from Azuma, in particular for the NVOCC services in Japan, and Azuma may demand other Transportation and Logistics Services from the Group in the Core Operation Regions in the year ending 31 December 2009.

3.3.2 Transactions with Cotecna

The actual transaction amount for the provision of Inspection Services to Cotecna increased by almost 10 times in 2007 as compared to 2006. However, as advised by the Directors, due to the seasonality factor as described above that the transaction amounts in the first half of the year is usually thinner than the second half of the year; and the transaction with Cotecna is related to the import and export trade of the PRC which in turn was affected by the economic downturn in 2008, the transaction amount in 2008 has not increased substantially as compared to in 2007. The expected increase in the provision of Inspection Services to Cotecna for the year ending 31 December 2009 was determined with reference to, and is in line with, the historical growth rate of the respective transactions in the year 2007. Moreover, as advised by the Company, the Company plans to further expand the business of the provision of Inspection Services in Shandong, Lianyungang, Shanghai and Ningbo, which will further increase the transaction volume with Cotecna in the coming years.

3.3.3 Transactions with Jiangsu Fortunate

Although the actual transaction amounts for provision of Transportation and Logistics Services to Jiangsu Fortunate has slightly declined by approximately 25.93% in 2007 as compared to 2006, the relevant transaction amount remarkably increased in 2008. The provision of Transportation and Logistics Services for the six months ended 30 June 2008 represents approximately 10.28 times of the total transaction amount of the entire year of 2007. Likewise, the actual transaction amounts for receipt of Transportation and Logistics Services from Jiangsu Fortunate increased by almost 4 times in 2007 as compared with 2006. Taking into consideration of the seasonality factor as described above, the expected increase in the provision and receipt of Transportation and Logistics Services to and from Jiangsu Fortunate for the year ending 31 December 2009 is in line with the historical growth rate of the respective transactions.

We also noted that in determining the New Caps for each of the years ending 31 December 2010 and 2011, the Company has assumed an annual growth rate (i) ranging from approximately 44% to 50% in respect of the provision and receipt of Transportation and Logistics Services to and from Azuma; (ii) of approximately 50% in respect of the provision of Inspection Services to Cotecna; and (iii) ranging from approximately 48% to 52% in respect of the provision and receipt of Transportation and Logistics Services to and from Jiangsu Fortunate.

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LETTER FROM OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED

In view of the discussed underlying bases and assumption of the projection with the Directors as set out above (including the historical transaction amounts with each of the Connected Persons and the other reasons for the expected increase in transaction amount in the coming three years), the official statistics in relation to the PRC economy, and the shipping industry as referred to above, and the business plan of the Group as described in this letter, we are of the view that the New Caps for each of the years ending 31 December 2009, 2010 and 2011 for the provision and receipt of Transportation and Logistics Services and/or Inspection Services (as the case may be) between the Group each of the Connected Persons are fair and reasonable.

RECOMMENDATION

Having considered the above principal factors and reasons, we consider (i) the terms of the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions are on normal commercial terms, in the ordinary and usual course of business of the Company, fair and reasonable and in the interests of the Company and the Independent Shareholders as a whole; and (ii) the New Caps are fair and reasonable so far as the Company and the Independent Shareholders are concerned. Accordingly, we advise the Independent Board Committee to recommend the Independent Shareholders to vote in favour of the ordinary resolution to be proposed at the EGM to approve the Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transactions and the New Caps.

Yours faithfully, for and on behalf of OPTIMA CAPITAL LIMITED Mei H. Leung April Chan Chairman Director

  • for the purpose of identification only

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APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT

This circular includes particulars given in compliance with the Listing Rules for the purpose of giving information with regard to the Company. The Directors collectively and individually accept full responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained in this circular and confirm, having made all reasonable enquiries, that to the best of their knowledge and belief there are no other facts the omission of which would make any statement herein misleading.

2. DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS

I. Interests of Directors

As at the Latest Practicable Date, so far as the Directors or supervisor of the Company are aware, none of the Directors or supervisor of the Company has interests and short positions in the Shares, underlying Shares or debentures of the Company and its associated corporations (within the meaning of Part XV of the SFO) which were required (a) to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange pursuant to Divisions 7 and 8 of Part XV of the SFO (including interests or short positions which they are taken or deemed to have under such provisions of the SFO); or (b) pursuant to section 352 of the SFO, to be entered in the register referred to therein; or (c) pursuant to the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Companies to be notified to the Company and the Stock Exchange.

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GENERAL INFORMATION

APPENDIX

II. Interests of Shareholders discloseable pursuant to the SFO

As at the Latest Practicable Date, so far as is known to the Directors or supervisor of the Company and based on the Company’s register required to be maintained pursuant to section 336 of the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong), the following persons (other than a Director or supervisor of the Company) had an interest or short position in the Shares and underlying Shares which would fall to be disclosed to the Company under the provisions of Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO or who were, directly or indirectly, interested in 10 per cent. or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of any other members of the Group are as follows:

(a) Interests in the Shares

% of the % of the % of the
Company’s Company’s Company’s
Number of Shares held (Class of Shares) issued total total issued total issued
Long Short Lending Nature domestic H share share
Name of Shareholders position position pool of Interests share capital capital capital
China National Foreign 2,461,596,200 Beneficial 100 57.93
Trade Transportation (Domestic owner
(Group) (Note 1) Shares)
Deutsche Post AG 237,468,000 Controlled 13.30 5.59
(Note 2) (H Shares) corporation
Franklin Templeton 196,278,000 Investment 10.98 4.62
Investments Corp. (H Shares) Manager
JP Morgan Chase & Co. 125,107,252 Controlled 6.99 2.94
(Note 3) (H Shares) Corporation
124,513,252 Custodian 6.97 2.93
(H Shares) corporation/
approved
lending
agent
The Bank of New York 158,894,100 Controlled 8.89 3.74
Mellon Corporation (H Shares) corporation
(Note 4)
94,114,200 Custodian 5.27 2.21
(H Shares) corporation/
approved
lending
agent
Templeton Investment 93,443,000 Investment 5.23 2.20
Counsel, LLC (H Shares) Manager
  • Note 1: Zhao Huxiang, Zhang Jianwei, Tao Suyun, Li Jianzhang, Yang Yuntao and Liu Jinghua are directors or employees of China National Foreign Trade Transportation Group which is the controlling shareholder of the Company.

  • Note 2: This includes 201,852,000 H Shares held by Deutsche Post Beteilgungen GmBH (‘‘Deutsche GmBH’’) and 35,616,000 shares held by Exel Hong Kong Limited (‘‘Exel’’). Deutsche GmBH and Exel are both 100% held by Deutsche Post AG.

  • Note 3: This includes 124,513,252 H Shares held by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and 594,000 H Shares held by J.P. Morgan Whitefriars Inc. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and J.P. Morgan Whitefriars Inc. are all 100% held by JP Morgan Chase & Co.

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APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

Note 4: This includes 158,894,100 H Shares held by The Bank of New York Mellon, which is 100% held by The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation.

(b) Substantial Shareholders of other members of the Group

As at the Latest Practicable Date, save as disclosed below and so far as is known to the Directors or supervisor of the Company, no person (not being a Director or supervisor of the Company) was interested in 10% or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of the other members of the Group.

Name of entities holding 10% or more interest in a Interest in member of the Group relevant company Name of subsidiary of the Company 大韓航空有限公司 25% 銀河國際貨運航空有限公司河國際貨運航空有限公司國際貨運航空有限公司際貨運航空有限公司貨運航空有限公司運航空有限公司航空有限公司空有限公司有限公司限公司公司司 (Korean Airlines Co., Ltd.*) (Grandstar Cargo International

  • 25% 銀河國際貨運航空有限公司河國際貨運航空有限公司國際貨運航空有限公司際貨運航空有限公司貨運航空有限公司運航空有限公司航空有限公司空有限公司有限公司限公司公司司 (Grandstar Cargo International Co., Ltd.*)

香港金發船務有限公司 (Golden Shipping Co., Ltd*)

  • 33% 上海華發國際貨運有限公司 (Shanghai Huafa International Transportation Co., Ltd.*)

  • 10% 上海中外運化工國際物流有限公司 (Sinotrans Shanghai Chemical International Logistics Co. Ltd.*)

上海森華貨運經營有限公司 (Shanghai Shumhua Freight Forwarding Operation Company Limited*)

10% 華發騰飛國際貨運有限公司 (Huafa Tanefei International Transportation Company Limited*)

日本通運株式會社 (Nippon Express Co., Ltd.*)

  • 49% 上海通運國際物流有限公司 (Shanghai Express International Co., Ltd.*)

美國致遠航運有限公司 (South East World Wide Limited*)

  • 45% 寧波致遠國際貨運有限公司 (Ningbo Southeast International Freight Company Limited*)

  • 30% 江蘇時運國際貨運有限公司 (Jiangsu Fortunate International Company Limited*)

新加坡太平船務有限公司 (Pacific International Lines (Pte) Ltd.*)

  • 40% 上海華星國際集裝箱貨運有限公司 (Shanghai Huasing International Container Freight Transportation Co., Ltd.*)

  • 45% 寧波太平國際貿易聯運有限公司 (Ningbo Taiping International Trade Transportation Company Limited*)

  • 27% 寧波保稅區太平倉儲有限公司 (Ningbo Free Trade Zone Taiping Warehouse Co., Ltd.*)

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APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

Name of entities holding 10% or more interest in a Interest in member of the Group relevant company Name of subsidiary of the Company

蘇州新區高新技術產業股份 有限公司 (Suzhou New District New & Hi-Tech Industrial Co., Ltd.*)

40% 中外運高新物流(蘇州)有限公司 (Sinotrans Gaoxin Logistics (Suzhou) Ltd.*)

運坡工貿公司 (Yuno Gongmao Corp.*)

  • 10% 上海星明集裝箱倉儲有限公司 (Shanghai Shengming Container Storage Company Limited*)

寧波新世紀國際投資有限公司 (Ningbo New Century International Investment Company Limited*)

  • 24.5% 寧波大港新世紀貨櫃有限公司 (Ningbo Dagang New Century Container Company Limited*)

寧波大港貨櫃有限公司 (Ningbo Dagang Container Company Limited*)

  • 24.5% 寧波大港新世紀貨櫃有限公司 (Ningbo Dagang New Century Container Company Limited*)

以星綜合航運有限公司 (Zim Integrated Shipping Services Ltd.*)

  • 49% 上海運星國際船務代理有限公司 (Shanghai Yunsheng International Shipping Agency Company Limited*)

怡和船務代理(中國)有限公司 (Yihe Shipping Agency (China) Company Limited*)

  • 49% 上海怡定和國際船務代理有限公司 (Shanghai Yidinghe International Shipping Agency*)

寧波泛洋國際貨運代理有限公司 職工持股會

(Ningbo Transocean International Forwarding Agency Ningbo Co. Ltd.*)

  • 40% 寧波泛洋國際貨運代理有限公司 (Ningbo Transocean International Forwarding Agency Company Limited*)

寧波船務代理有限公司 職工持股會

(China Marine Shipping Agency Ningbo Co. Ltd. Employee Shareholding Society*)

  • 40% 寧波船務代理有限公司 (China Marine Shipping Agency Ningbo Co., Ltd.*)

寧波外運國際貨運代理有限公司 職工持股會 (Sinotrans Ningbo International Freight Forward Agency Co., Ltd. Employee Shareholding Society*)

40% 寧波外運國際貨運代理有限公司 (Sinotrans Ningbo International Freight Forwarding Agency Co., Ltd.*)

– 26 –

APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

Name of entities holding 10% or more interest in a Interest in member of the Group relevant company Name of subsidiary of the Company

寧波外運國際集裝箱貨運 有限公司職工持股會 (Sinotrans Ningbo International Container Transportation Company Limited Employee Shareholding Society*)

40% 寧波外運國際集裝箱貨運有限公司 (Sinotrans Ningbo International Container Transportation Company Limited*)

廣東省食品進出口集團公司 (Guangdong Foodstuffs Imp & Exp (Group) Corporation*)

20% 佛山中外運有限公司 (Sinotrans Foshan Company Limited*)

廣東省南海食品進出口有限公司 (Guangdong Nanhai Foodstuffs Company Limited*)

25% 佛山中外運有限公司 (Sinotrans Foshan Company Limited*)

錦和有限公司 (Jinhe Co., Ltd.*)

35% 江門中外運倉碼有限公司 (Sinotrans Guangdong Jiangmen Warehousing & Terminal Co., Ltd.*)

35% 江門外海運輸實業有限公司 (Jiangmen Foreign Transportation & Enterprises Co., Ltd.*)

中山市歧江工業發展有限公司 (Zhongshan Qijiang Industry Development Co., Ltd.*)

40.564% 中山廣運貨運有限公司 (Zhongshan Sinoway Transportation Corp., Ltd.*)

福州市國有資產經營公司 (Fuzhou City State-owned Assets Management Company*)

30% 福州大裕保稅倉儲有限公司 (Fuzhou Davu Bonded Storage Company Limited*)

日本山九株式會社 (Sankyu Inc.*)

40% 天津天山國際貨運有限公司 (Tianjin Tianshan International Freight Forwarding Company Limited*)

濟南大運物流有限公司 (Jnan Da Yun Logistics Co., Ltd.*)

20% 山東中外運力神起重運輸有限公司 (Shandong Sinotrans Lishen Hoisting and Transporting Company Limited*)

COTECNA INSPECTION S.A.

  • 49% 中瑞檢驗有限公司 (Sino-Swiss Inspection Co., Ltd.*)

馬士基集團香港有限公司 (MAERSK Group Hong Kong Company Limited*)

  • 49% 上海中歐國際船務代理有限公司 (Shanghai Fortune International Shipping Agency Co., Ltd.*)

– 27 –

APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

Name of entities holding 10% or more interest in a Interest in member of the Group relevant company Name of subsidiary of the Company

韓進海運有限公司 (Hanjin Shipping Company Limited*)

  • 49% 上海星翰船務代理有限公司 (Shanghai Shenhan Shipping Agency Company Limited*)

鴻意船務企業有限公司 (Eternal China Shipping Enterprises Ltd.*)

  • 30% 山東鴻運集裝箱工程有限公司 (Shandong Hongyun Container Engineering Co., Ltd.*)

遠升有限公司 (Lailon Enterprises Ltd.*)

  • 25% 青島金運航空貨運代理有限公司 (Qingdao Jinyun Air Cargo Freight Forwarding Co. Ltd.*)

  • 25% 青島聯通報關有限公司 (Qingdao Liantong Customs Broker Co., Ltd.*)

  • 25% 山東中外運弘志物流有限公司 (Sinotrans Shandong Hongzhi Logistics Co. Ltd*)

大新華輪船(烟台)有限公司 (Grand China Shipping (Yantai) Co. Ltd*)

  • 49% 青島中外運烟海國際集裝箱 倉儲有限公司 (Sinotrans Qingdao Yanhai International Container and Storage Company Limited*)

==> picture [65 x 9] intentionally omitted <==

(Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd.*)

  • 30% 青島運東儲運有限公司 (Qingdao Sinotrans-Azuma Logistics Co., Ltd.*)

龍口港集團有限公司 (Long Kou Port Corporation Ltd.*)

49% 龍口中港集裝箱物流有限公司 (Long Kou China Container Logistics Co., Ltd.*)

==> picture [56 x 10] intentionally omitted <==

(Hana Capital Co., Ltd.*)

  • 13% 銀河國際貨運航空有限公司 (Grandstar Cargo International Co., Ltd.*)

==> picture [56 x 9] intentionally omitted <==

(Shinhan Capital Co., Ltd.*)

  • 11% 銀河國際貨運航空有限公司 (Grandstar Cargo International Co., Ltd.*)

上海虹光實業有限公司 (Shanghai Honkwong Shiye Company Limited*)

  • 10% 上海華服商貿有限公司 (Shanghai Huafu Commercial Co., Ltd.*)

– 28 –

APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

Name of entities holding 10% or more interest in a Interest in member of the Group relevant company Name of subsidiary of the Company 寧波外運國際航空貨運有限責任 40% 寧波外運國際航空有限公司 公司職工持股會 (Ningbo Sinotrans International (Ningbo Sinotrans Air Freight Forwarding Company International Air Freight Limited) Forwarding Corp. Ltd. Employee Shareholding Society)

北京雲海鷺商貿有限公司 40% 大連京大國際貨運代理公司 (Beijing Yunhailu Shangmao (Dalian JD Cargo International Company Limited) Co., Ltd.)

Save as disclosed above, the Directors of the Company are not aware that there is any person (other than a Director or chief executive of the Company) who, as at the Latest Practicable Date, had an interest or short position in the Shares and underlying Shares of the Company which would fall to be disclosed to the Company under the provisions of Divisions 2 and 3 of Part XV of the SFO, or who is, directly or indirectly, interested in 10 per cent. or more of the nominal value of any class of share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at a general meeting of any other member of the Group.

As at the Latest Practicable Date:

  • (i) none of the Directors had any direct or indirect interests in any assets which have since 31 December 2007 (being the date to which the latest published audited consolidated financial statements of the Group were made up) been acquired or disposed of by or leased to any members of the Group, or are proposed to be acquired or disposed of by or leased to any members of the Group;

  • (ii) none of the Directors was materially interested in any contracts or arrangements entered into by any members of the Group subsisting as at the Latest Practicable Date which is significant in relation to the business of the Group.

III. Directors’ interests in competing business

Two of the non-executive Directors, namely Mr. Jerry Hsu and Peter Landsiedel are considered to have interests in other business apart from the Group’s business, which competes or likely to compete, either directly or indirectly with the Group’s business as at the Latest Practicable Date, within the meaning of the Listing Rules. They are all representatives nominated by the Strategic Investors of the Company (namely DHL Worldwide Express BV (‘‘DHL’’) and Exel plc. (‘‘Exel’’) (collectively, the ‘‘Strategic Investors’’).

– 29 –

APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

DHL is a member of the Deutsche Post World Net Group whose business operations are global mail, express delivery, logistics and financial services serving both in Europe and around the world.

Exel is a UK listed, FTSE 100 company, which provides supply chain management solutions to its customers around the world. Exel’s range of logistics solutions encompasses the whole supply chain from design and consulting through freight forwarding, warehousing and distribution services to integrated information management and e-commerce support. In 2005, Excel has agreed to be taken over by Deutsche Post World Net Group.

While, for the purposes of the Listing Rules, each of Mr. Jerry Hsu and Peter Landsiedel is considered to have interests (by way of minority equity interests or stock options or directorships) in competing businesses (i.e. those of the Strategic Investors, each being a major international company in the transportation and logistics industry), the Company has been and continues to carry on its business, management and operation independently of and at arms length from, those businesses and through its joint venture and cooperation arrangements with those Strategic Investors.

Zhao Huxiang, Zhang Jianwei, Tao Suyun, Li Jianzhang, Yang Yuntao and Liu Jinghua are directors or employees of Sinotrans Group Company which is the controlling shareholder of the Company. Certain subsidiaries of Sinotrans Group Company engage in the Group’s ‘‘core businesses’’ (namely freight forwarding, express services and shipping agency operations) in certain ‘‘core strategic regions’’ of the Group in the PRC which have only nominal operations which are the same as or similar to the ‘‘core businesses’’ of the Group. Details of the competition between Sinotrans Group Company and the Group and the Non-competition Agreement entered into between Sinotrans Group Company and the Company on 14 January 2003 are referred to in the section headed ‘‘Relationship with Sinotrans Group Company’’ in the prospectus of the Company dated 29 January 2003. The Company has also announced in its announcement dated 11 October 2007 that it proposes to acquire certain subsidiaries from the Sinotrans Group Company situated in the ‘‘core strategic regions’’.

Save as disclosed above, as at the Latest Practicable Date, so far as is known to the Directors or supervisor of the Company, no other Directors or any of their respective associates had any interests in a business, which competes or may compete with the business of the Group.

3. DIRECTORS’ SERVICE CONTRACTS

As at the Latest Practicable Date, none of the Directors or proposed Directors had entered into or proposed to enter into any service contract with any member of the Group (excluding contracts expiring or determinable by the employer within one year without payment of compensation (other than statutory compensation)).

– 30 –

APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

4. MATERIAL ADVERSE CHANGE

The Directors are not aware of any material adverse change in the financial or trading position of the Group since 31 December 2007, being the date up to which the latest published audited financial statements of the Group were made up.

5. EXPERT

The following is the qualification of IFA, which has given its opinion or advice which is contained in this circular:

Name

Qualification

Optima Capital Limited a corporation licensed to carry on type 1 (dealing in securities), type 4 (advising on securities) and type 6 (advising on corporate finance) regulated activities under the SFO

As at the Latest Practicable Date, the IFA did not have:

  • (a) any direct or indirect interest in any assets which have since 31 December 2007 (being the date to which the latest published audited accounts of the Company were made up) been acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group, or are proposed to be acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group; and

  • (b) any shareholding in any member of the Group or the right (whether legally enforceable or not) to subscribe for or to nominate persons to subscribe for securities in any member of the Group.

The IFA has given and has not withdrawn its consent to the issue of this circular with the inclusion of its reports or letters, as the case may be, and reference to its name in the form and context in which they respectively appear.

6. DIRECTOR’S INTERESTS IN ASSETS/CONTRACTS AND OTHER INTERESTS

  • (a) None of the Directors has any direct or indirect interest in any assets which have been acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group or are proposed to be acquired or disposed of by or leased to any member of the Group since 31 December 2007, being the date up to which the latest published audited financial statements of the Group were made.

  • (b) None of the Directors is materially interested in any contract or arrangement entered into by any member of the Group subsisting at the date of this circular which is significant in relation to the business of the Group.

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APPENDIX

GENERAL INFORMATION

  1. MISCELLANEOUS

  2. (a) The secretary of the Company is Gao Wei.

  3. (b) The registered office and headquarters of the Company is situated at A43, Xizhimen Beidajie, Beijing, the People’s Republic of China 100044. The principal place of business of the Company in Hong Kong is situated at 21st Floor, Great Eagle Centre, 23 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong.

  4. (c) The share registrars of the Company is Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited at Rooms 1712–1716, 17th Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Hong Kong.

In any event of inconsistency, the English language text of this circular shall prevail over the Chinese language text.

8. DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION

Copies of the following documents will be available for inspection during normal business hours on any weekday (except public holidays) at the office of Richards Butler in association with Reed Smith LLP at 20/F., Alexandra House, 16–20 Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong, from 12 March 2009, for a period of 14 days:

  • (a) the master services agreements dated 24 February 2009 entered into by the Company with each of the Connected Joint Venture Partners, further details of which are included in the section headed ‘‘Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transaction — A. Transactions with Connected Joint Venture Partners’’ in the Letter from the Board in this circular; and

  • (b) the master services agreement dated 24 February 2009 entered into by the Company with the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company, further details of which are included in the section headed ‘‘Non-exempt Continuing Connected Transaction — B. Transactions with Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company’’ in the Letter from the Board in this circular.

  • for the purpose of identification only

– 32 –

NOTICE OF EGM

Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited take no responsibility for the contents of this notice, make no representation as to its accuracy or completeness and expressly disclaim any liability whatsoever for any loss howsoever arising from or in reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this notice.

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(A joint stock limited company incorporated in the People’s Republic of China with limited liability)

(Stock Code: 0598)

NOTICE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an extraordinary general meeting of Sinotrans Limited (the ‘‘Company’’) will be held at No. 1 Meeting Room, 12th Floor, Sinotrans Plaza A, A43, Xizhimen Beidajie, Haidian District, Beijing, the People’s Republic of China 100044 on Thursday, 30 April 2009 at 10: 00 a.m. for the purposes of considering and, if thought fit, passing, with or without modifications, the following resolution of the Company:

ORDINARY RESOLUTION

‘‘THAT:

  • (A) the transactions contemplated under the master services agreement entered into between the Company and each of (a) 東海運株式會社 (Azuma Shipping Co., Ltd); (b) Cotecna Inspection S.A. (companies listed in (a) and (b) above together, the ‘‘Connected Joint Venture Partners’’); and (c) 江蘇時運國際貨運有限 公司 (Jiangsu Fortunate International Freight Co., Ltd.) (the ‘‘Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company’’) on 24 February 2009 (each a ‘‘Master Services Agreement’’ and collectively the ‘‘Master Services Agreements’’, a copy of each of which are produced to the meeting marked ‘‘A’’ to ‘‘C’’ and initialled by the chairman for the purpose of identification) and the annual caps for each of the three years ending 31 December 2009, 2010 and 2011 in respect of the provision and receipt of services by the Company and its subsidiaries to/from each of the Connected Joint Venture Partners and the Connected Non Wholly-Owned Company and their respective associates in accordance with the terms of the relevant Master Services Agreement as set out on pages 4 to 7 of the shareholders’ circular dated 12 March 2009 issued by the Company be and are hereby approved; and

– 33 –

NOTICE OF EGM

  • (B) the directors of the Company be and are hereby authorised to take all actions and execute all documents which they deem necessary, desirable or appropriate in order to implement or give effect to the Master Services Agreements and transactions contemplated thereunder.’’

By order of the Board of Sinotrans Limited Gao Wei Company Secretary

12 March 2009

Notes:

  1. The register of members of the Company will be closed from 30 March 2009 to 30 April 2009, both days inclusive, during which period no share transfers will be registered. To qualify for attendance at the extraordinary general meeting, all transfers accompanied by the relevant share certificates must be lodged with the Company’s Branch Share Registrar in Hong Kong, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited of Rooms 1712–1716, 17/F., Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong, not later than 4: 00 p.m. on 27 March 2009, for registration.

  2. Shareholders intending to attend the extraordinary general meeting shall give written notice of the same to the Company, which shall be lodged at the registered office of the Company on or before 4: 00 p.m. on 10 April 2009.

  3. Shareholders entitled to attend and vote at the extraordinary general meeting are entitled to appoint one or more persons (whether or not a shareholder of the Company) as their proxy to attend and vote on behalf of themselves.

  4. In order to be valid, the form of proxy, together with a duly notarised power of attorney or other document of authority, if any, under which the form is signed must be deposited at the registered office of the Company not later than 24 hours before the time for holding the extraordinary general meeting.

As at the date of this notice, Zhao Huxiang, Zhang Jianwei, Tao Suyun and Li Jianzhang are executive directors of the Company. Yang Yuntao, Liu Jinghua, Jerry Hsu and Peter Landsiedel are non-executive directors of the Company and Sun Shuyi, Lu Zhengfei and Miao Yuexin are independent non-executive directors of the Company.

  • for the purpose of identification only

– 34 –