An air freight carrier is preparing to open its new base at Cardiff Airport this week.
European Cargo will launch regular freight services between China and Wales from Wednesday.
Initially, three flights a week will be run from the Rhoose airport, building up to four, with hopes of adding more services in the future.
Bosses at the Rhoose airport say it will offer new employment opportunities - with a recruitment drive already underway.
Airport chief execuive Spencer Birns said: Spencer Birns, "There is huge demand for air freighters in the marketplace and this investment in Wales is primarily down to the excellent facilities and teams we have at the airport."
"We’re committed to diversifying our business for the benefit of Wales. We look forward to working with European Cargo to help make their new base a success.”
European Cargo, which also operates out of Bournemouth Airport, will run its Welsh base using a dedicated fleet of large Airbus aircraft.
The British-based firm says it was attracted to Cardiff because of such factors such as round-the-clock operations, zero-slot constraints and facilities that regularly handle large aircraft movements.
Jason Holt, CEO of European Cargo, said: "We’re delighted to announce this exciting development at Cardiff Airport. As we continue to grow our business expanding outwards from Bournemouth, we see Wales as a fantastic place to invest in."
"Cardiff Airport has many advantages, including 24-hour operational facilities and easy road access to the motorway network. We look forward to working with the airport team."
The decision to open a Cardiff base has also been opened by the trade association Logistics UK, who said it would open up new trading routes linking Wales to international markets.
Josh Fenton, policy manager for trade, customs and borders, said: "Cardiff Airport has the facilities to handle large aircraft and Logistics UK has been calling for a study to determine how to increase air freight at the airport for some time, so it is great news that there will be freight flights to China starting."
He added: "Logistics has a key role to play in Wales in driving growth across the Welsh economy and the Welsh government must exploit the strategic opportunities this high quality, integrated transport infrastructure presents."
"Key to this is publishing the Welsh Freight and Logistics Plan as a matter of urgency and appointing a dedicated minister for logistics and supply chain who can deliver across the Welsh Government."
The announcement also coincided with the launch of Play Airlines' short-term route between Cardiff and Keflavik, despite the Icelandic airline's decision to cancel some of its flights owing to technical issues.
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