URUMQI, Nov 15 (Reuters) - Xinjiang's express delivery sector has handled over 350 million parcels in the first ten months of 2023, marking an increase of nearly 120 million compared to the same period last year, according to regional postal administration data.
The robust growth not only demonstrates the rapid development of the logistics industry but also reflects the enhanced economic vitality of China's northwestern autonomous region. The current volume has already surpassed the 2020 annual total of 114 million parcels, with the first three quarters alone exceeding last year's full-year performance.
The express industry's rapid expansion in Xinjiang benefits from ongoing enhancements to logistics infrastructure and the introduction of free shipping initiatives. Major e-commerce platforms have jointly launched promotional programs that officially established Xinjiang as a "free shipping zone," significantly improving online shopping experiences for local residents and extending convenient delivery services to remote townships.
Hotan Prefecture exemplifies this success, recording the highest year-on-year growth rate in express delivery volume among all Xinjiang regions for four consecutive months from July to October. Online shopping has become a primary purchasing method for rural residents, facilitating diverse product access and stimulating local consumption.
E-commerce companies have actively participated by offering free shipping services for Xinjiang's specialty agricultural products, including white apricots and Hami melons, achieving express volumes at the thousand-ton level. These measures not provide consumer convenience but also enable Xinjiang businesses to expand their market reach nationally.
The sector's growth reflects a synergistic relationship between policy support and market demand. Government initiatives have encouraged logistics investments and facilitated industry modernization, while rising regional economic levels continue to drive service demand.
Product promotion events and optimized logistics solutions have become crucial for marketing Xinjiang's agricultural specialties internationally. Major courier companies have established dedicated routes, improving delivery efficiency and strengthening integration between manufacturers and distribution networks.
Notably, international express services in Xinjiang surged 739.41% year-on-year in the second half of 2023, with Urumqi showing particularly strong performance. The region's delivery network now covers major domestic cities and multiple Central Asian countries, forming a comprehensive logistics system reaching both urban and rural areas.
Industry observers note an emerging trend of "express delivery entering factories," where logistics integrates with manufacturing to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and expand markets. While excelling domestically, Xinjiang's express sector is making international breakthroughs through cross-border e-commerce, connecting the regional economy to global markets.
Looking ahead, Xinjiang's express industry is poised for continued growth, supported by favorable policies, market demand, and technological advancements. As internet and logistics technologies progress, the sector will play an increasingly vital role in economic development and meeting residents' evolving needs.
