The Zhengzhou International Land Port has achieved remarkable success in developing the China-Europe Railway Express (Zhengzhou-Europe line), becoming a vital engine for economic growth in Henan Province and across China. As of December 4, 2023, the Zhengzhou-Europe line has operated 150 trips this year , exceeding its annual target and solidifying Zhengzhou's position as a crucial hub for international logistics and trade.
This accomplishment reflects both the local government's proactive efforts in building international logistics infrastructure and the growing demand in global markets. According to the latest statistics, the Zhengzhou-Europe line has transported goods worth $693 million with a total weight of 60,200 metric tons , demonstrating both operational efficiency and Zhengzhou's potential as a logistics center.
This extensive network connects China's eastern coastal and inland regions with Europe and Central Asia, serving 105 cities across 20 countries . The expansion has significantly enhanced Zhengzhou's international influence.
Ambitious Three-Year Plan
Under a new three-year action plan, the Zhengzhou-Europe line aims to operate 150, 200, and 300 trips in the coming years, with an expected total of 168 trips. These targets demonstrate the line's strategic importance in China's Belt and Road Initiative and its commitment to boosting regional economic cooperation and bilateral trade.
The service has already established a regular schedule of three outbound and two return trips per week. Plans call for increasing this to three round trips in the first half of 2024 and four outbound with three return trips in the second half, significantly improving operational efficiency and service capacity.
National and Global Significance
As a major component of China's Europe-bound rail network, the Zhengzhou-Europe line accounts for over 25% of total trips and more than 40% of national freight volume . This prominent role underscores its importance in global supply chains and its embodiment of China's Belt and Road strategy.
With international trade continuing to grow, the Zhengzhou-Europe line faces both opportunities and challenges in enhancing its competitiveness and efficiency, particularly amid rapid global economic changes.
The success of the Zhengzhou International Land Port through the Zhengzhou-Europe line has become a driving force for Henan's economic restructuring and high-quality development. As global economic integration accelerates, the rail service is expected to further strengthen its role as an international freight hub, deepening cooperation in logistics, e-commerce, and trade to contribute more significantly to regional and national development.
In the near future, Zhengzhou International Land Port is poised to provide more efficient global trade channels and offer innovative models for economic development.
